
Chao Hsin-yen was born in 1947 and grew up in Hong Kong, though she was a native of Shantung. After graduating from secondary school, she joined the 4th Southern Experimental Theatre Training Troupe. When the Troupe wound up in 1964, Chao signed a four-year acting contract with Shaw Brothers. Her first movie was the romantic comedy Hong Kong, Manila, Singapore.
In 1968, Chao appeared in two martial arts movies, namely The Silver Fox and Golden Swallow directed by Chang Cheh. In 1969, she also appeared in The Swordmate, Dragon Swamp and The Singing Escort. Chao retired from the motion picture industry after completion of her contract with Shaw Brothers.

Come Drink with Me
1966 · as Woman Escort Soldier

The Monkey Goes West
1966

Golden Swallow
1968 · as Mei Niang

The Assassin
1967 · as Concubine Zhao

The Bells of Death
1968 · as Chang Wei Yun

Blue Skies
1967 · as Member of musical troupe

Angel with the Iron Fists
1967 · as Dark Angel member

Dragon Swamp
1969 · as Chun Hua

Princess Iron Fan
1966

The Iron Buddha
1970 · as Mute girl

That Fiery Girl
1968 · as Xue Jiang

Temptress of a Thousand Faces
1969 · as Model

Operation Lipstick
1967 · as Lee Jing

Hong Kong Nocturne
1967 · as HK Troupe Dancer

The Golden Buddha
1966

Squadron 77
1965 · as Photo Shop Worker (uncredited)

The Swordmates
1969 · as Hsin-Ying

The Joy of Spring
1966