Born in 1947, Chao Hsin-yen was a native of Shantung, although she spent her formative years growing up in Hong Kong.
After completing her secondary education, she joined the 4th Southern Experimental Theatre Training Troupe, where she honed her acting skills alongside her peers.
However, her time with the Troupe came to an end in 1964, when it disbanded. In response, Chao signed a four-year acting contract with Shaw Brothers, one of the most prominent film studios in the industry at the time.
Her debut film, the romantic comedy Hong Kong, Manila, Singapore, marked the beginning of her illustrious career in the motion picture industry.
As her reputation grew, Chao began to appear in a range of films, including the martial arts movies The Silver Fox and Golden Swallow, both directed by the renowned Chang Cheh, in 1968.
The following year, she added to her impressive filmography with roles in The Swordmate, Dragon Swamp, and The Singing Escort.
Eventually, Chao's contract with Shaw Brothers came to an end, and she decided to retire from the motion picture industry, bringing her remarkable career to a close.
