Zhao is a significant Chinese state during the Warring States Period, along with six others.

At the beginning of the Warring States Period, Zhao is one of the weakest states but gains strength during the reign of King Wuling of Zhao: by the end of the Period, Zhao is the only state strong enough to oppose the mighty Qin.Its territory include areas in modern Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Shanxi and Shaanxi provinces.

The state of Zhao borders the Xiongnu (Huns), the states of Qin, Wei and Yan.

Its capital is Handan, a suburb of modern-day Handan City in Hebei.