A media network of regions that are situated along the ancient road to the frontier taken by famous beauty Wang Zhaojun on her way to be married, was established in Xingshan county – in Yichang city, in Central China's Hubei province – on Aug 15.

The Baotou City Convergence Media Center – located in Baotou city, in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region – was among the network's founder members.

Wang Zhaojun was known as one of the Four Beauties of ancient China. Born in Yichang in the Western Han dynasty (206 BC-8 AD), she was sent by Emperor Yuan to marry Chanyu Huhanye of the Xiongnu Empire on the frontier in order to establish friendly relations with the Han Dynasty through marriage.

Including Baotou, the network consists of 13 members. They come from Yichang, Jingzhou, Jingmen, Xiangyang and Shennongjia in Hubei province.

There are other members in Xuchang in Central's Henan province and in Xianyang, Yan'an, Yulin in Northwest China's Shaanxi province – as well as Ordos, Bayannuur and Hohhot in Inner Mongolia.

Representatives from the 13 media members announce the establishment of the network. [Photo/Baotou news network]

The network plans to carry out coordinated media promotions while jointly exploring the application of new technologies in media such as artificial intelligence and big data.

It will regularly hold professional exchanges, business forums, and culture and tourism promotions.

As well, it will also stage product exhibitions to boost the promotion of Zhaojun culture and improve industry cooperation – contributing to the economic and social development of the regions along the route.