Wang Zhaojun was one of China's four ancient beauties who also gained recognition for her courage and patriotism. In 33 B.C., Zhaojun was a maid of honor in an imperial palace of the Han Dynasty, at a time when the emperor was trying to deal troublesome neighbors to the north, the Huns. Chief Huhanxie of the Huns proposed ties of amity with the Han court through marriage. Wang Zhaojun married Chief Huhanxie, bringing peace as well as the rich Han culture to the Huns in the north.
The Tomb of Zhaojun is similar to the imperial tombs of the Han Dynasty that were built in the central plains of the kingdom, in that there are pavilions around the tomb. Today, visitors can use these pavilions to rest. Cultural relics commemorating Zhaojun are on display in an exhibition room nearby the tomb.
The Tomb of Zhaojun is located on the southe bank of the Dahei River, nine kilometers south of the city of Hohhot. Viewed from afar, the surface of the tomb appears to be dark green, so it is also known as the Green Tomb."
