Zhaojun Tomb is situated nine kilometers (approx. 6 miles) away
from Hohhot, on the plain extending from the northern bank of
the Dahei River. Also called 'green tomb' after the green grass
that grows on it, the tomb is listed among the eight most popular
scenic spots in Hohhot. The tomb is a large man-made earthen mound,
which is 33 meters (approx. 108 feet) high. It was built to commemorate
a great woman named Wang Zhaojun, who was one of the four most
beautiful ladies in ancient China, and who sacrificed herself
for the unity of China by marrying Khan.
In front of the tomb, bronze statues of Wang Zhaojun and her
husband (Khan), depict a vivid picture of them riding horses and
talking to each other intimately. The statues are the symbol of
the friendly relations between the Han nationality and the Hun
nationality, which was greatly promoted by Wang Zhaojun.
Behind the statues, there are several steles displaying the praises
bestowed upon Wang Zhaojun. Among them, the stele marked with
the poems of Dong Biwu (a modern revolutionary and a politician)
is the most notable one.
Behind
the steles, stone stairs and a stone platform are connected with
the Zhaojun Tomb. Upon the stone platform you can find a pavilion.
The pavilion offers tourists a good position from which to overlook
the scenery surrounding the tomb and the far away Mt. Yinshan.
Recently, the tomb area has been developed to include cultural
facilities such as a Reception Room, Exhibition Room and Painting
and Calligraphy Room. The tomb has now become one of the key cultural
relics under the jurisdiction of Hohhot.
The tomb is famous for its spectacular scenery. The summer months
are mild, and the wild flowers and grasses grow in abundance,
creating a beautiful natural picture together with the towering
green trees. When autumn comes in September, unlike grasses which
shriveled and yellow at this time of the year, the grass growing
on the tomb is still green and vigorous.
You can get there either by taking the regular bus or by taxi
from Hohhot.