Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, is to issue 40,000 metro cards featuring the Hangzhou cityscape in New York City (NYC), the largest city in the United States, according to a news conference held at the United Nations Secretariat Building on May 3.

Approximately 100 guests, including representatives from tourism organizations, travel companies and media outlets, attended the event and witnessed the innovative measure Hangzhou has taken to promote its tourist resources abroad.

Themed on "one metro card, two cities", the Hangzhou - NYC metro cards, to be issued at two of NYC's busiest metro hubs Grand Central Terminal and World Trade Center Station in May and August respectively, are expected to increase Hangzhou's global influence and attract more foreign visitors to experience the beauty of Hangzhou after admiring the natural and cultural elements on the cards.

In addition, there will be 1,000 "golden tickets" for American residents who win lucky draws. Each "golden ticket" can be redeemed for a special metro pass in Hangzhou that allows the holders to enjoy unlimited use of all metro lines in the city for 72 hours upon activation.

Hangzhou will also initiate a photography contest in the United States. Winners of the contest will win a trip to Hangzhou in June.

"As an important part of Hangzhou's international promotion, the Hangzhou - NYC metro cards serves as invitation letters to encourage overseas visitors to discover the charm of Hangzhou," said Zhang Hongbin, director of Hangzhou Tourism Commission.

Famous landscapes in Hangzhou are printed on the Hangzhou – NYC metro cards. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

A New York City resident shows a Hangzhou - NYC metro card. [Photo/hangzhou.gov.cn]