[1][2] Zhao was best known as president of the Buddhist Association of China and also one of the most renowned Chinese calligraphers.

[3][4] Zhao also served as vice chairman of the 9th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and honorary chairman of 10th Central Committee of China Association for Promoting Democracy.

[1] He began his work in the 1930s, serving as secretary of the Buddhist Association of China.

He led a Chinese religious delegation to Japan in 1992, meeting with then prime minister Kiichi Miyazawa and receiving the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Secret Treasure of Japan.

[6] Zhao was outspoken against Falun Gong and supported its ban within China.