[Photo provided to China Daily]

'Thrilled cry'

Zhao, who later earned his renown as a historian and archaeologist who was an expert on the history of Beijing, died in the winter of 2010.

"He suffered respiratory problems for nearby three decades before death," Yang says.

"I always felt that the disease had something to do with his time spent in the burial chamber. At the time, senior members of the team often reminded him to put on a face mask, but often he would overlook the precaution. He was so young and everything was so exciting."

Sun, who spent most of his time with the team carrying either a kerosene light or an electric generator, says the most memorable moment took place when he entered the tomb, through that slit of opening between two stone slabs.

"I was so scared. It was still and chilly, but eventually everyone let out that thrilled cry."