The Legendary Biao Ju: Ancient China’s Escort Agencies

Perhaps few themes have been depicted in Chinese martial arts movies as frequently as the Biao Ju, also written as Biaoju, ancient China’s escort or bodyguard agencies.

These enterprises were official agencies licensed by the Imperial Court. Often, they had been founded by renowned martial arts masters, who, in turn, employed other skilled martial artists to staff the escort agency.

The Biao Ju escorted merchant caravans that carried all sorts of goods as well as prominent individuals who traveled with family members, their possessions, and a host of servants.

Each Biao Ju was distinguished by a banner that depicted bravery or high achievement. Names such as “1000 Victories,” “Everlasting Victory,” and the like, were meant to instill fear in the bands of thieves and cutthroats that infested China’s remote travel routes.

When thieves were successful in sacking a caravan, they often captured the banner as well. The captured banners would then be displayed when attacking other caravans, to instill fear and demonstrate their own prowess. Bands of thieves could also achieve a degree of notoriety based on their successful exploits.

The life of an escort guard was not as glamorous as depicted in martial arts movies. Conditions were often deplorable with little rest even at night because it was important to remain on guard. The food that was available provided only basic sustenance.

The traceable origins of the Biao Ju extend back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). It is likely that some type of personal bodyguard and escort service existed even during earlier dynasties.

For a martial artist, working for a Biao Ju was a dangerous profession that frequently tested one’s skills. Some sought it precisely for that reason. Others choose it simply as a necessary means to sustain a livelihood. In either case, a high level of proficiency with various weapons as well as bare-hand fighting skills were prerequisites for gaining employment.