High-speed train debuts in West China

The first high-speed passenger train in western China made its debut on Saturday. The line shortens travel time between Xi'an and Zhengzhou by two-thirds.

The line is on a 2-hour cycle. Xi'an and Zhengzhou tourism bureaus have special promotions for passengers, such as discount tickets to local scenic spots.

Yu Yajun, Deputy Director, Xi'an Tourism Bureau, said, "Many scenic spots in both Xi'an and Zhengzhou have launched preferential policies towards residents from each other's side."

With a speed of 350 kilometers per hour, the high-speed Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) train coded G2004 is about to leave Xi'an for Zhengzhou in Xi'an Railway Station, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, on Feb. 6, 2010. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)