TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Tainan will launch a new ticket discount plan with seven Japanese partner cities starting Jan. 1, allowing residents on both sides to get cheaper entry to selected attractions.

Tainan City Government said Wednesday the city's residents can present their identification card to get ticket discounts at selected attractions in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Yamagata City, Nikko City, Minakami Town, Uto City, Beppu City, and Usa City. Residents from those Japanese cities can also get the same local discounts when they visit approved sites in Tainan.

Mayor Huang Wei-che (黃偉哲) said the move shifts city ties from official talks to people-first exchanges that residents can make use of. Huang said the goal is to make travel easier, friendlier, and more rewarding for both sides.

The city’s information and international relations department said 28 attractions in seven Japanese partner cities are included in the first round of ticket discounts for Tainan residents. The department warned that visitors must show a physical identification card, as photos, copies, or other documents will not be accepted.

The attractions in Tainan included in the plan are Chihkan Tower, Anping Fort, Anping Tree House, Eternal Golden Castle, Tainan City Museum, Shanhua Garden Waterworks Museum, and Hutoupi Scenic Area. City officials said the plan is expected to draw more visitors from partner cities in Japan.