In September 2015, the first high-speed train was put into operation in Hunchun. The city located at the border of China, Russia and the DPRK embraced for the first time the railway travel rush of the Spring Festival recently. A blonde volunteer also appeared at the Hunchun Railway Station. She was Maria from Russia.

Maria speaks fluently Chinese. She is from Vladivostok of Russia and has worked in Hunchun for four years. After the travel rush of the Chinese New Year began, she has worked as a volunteer in the railway station. Wearing the uniform, Maria helps the passengers to buy tickets, get tickets and guide passengers in the station. She also provides language services and travel information to Russian tourists.

"After the high-speed rail was put into operation, it is more convenient for Russian tourists who enter China from Hunchun to go to other Chinese cities," Maria said. "High-speed rail has shortened the travel time, and contributed to the Sino-Russian friendship. I'm proud to be able to contribute my part."

Maria talks with a passenger carrying a baby at Hunchun Railway Station, northwest China's Jilin Province on January 27. [Xinhua]

Maria helps the passengers. [Xinhua]

By Huang JinEditor: Eileen Cheng