Introduction

Hao Enguang was recently featured in episode seven of the documentary series "The Secrets of Xingyi Quan," which is currently being translated and released on the Mu Shin Martial Culture YouTube channel. This series offers an unprecedented look into the history, techniques, and legacy of Xingyiquan. In order to present some additional insight int the life of Hao Enguang, I have looked through various Chinese sources and translated some of the information here. Bear in mind, as always, that in many cases of such “historical recountings” there is always a bit of exaggeration, creativity and omission, which is par for the course Nonetheless, there is a lot of interesting information here and food for thought.

Master Li Cunyi (Poster available to order from our online store)

Early Life and Entry into Martial Arts

Hao Enguang was born in 1871 in Anxin County, Hebei Province, a region long known for its strong martial tradition, where Xingyiquan and Shaolin practices have flourished. According to historical accounts, Hao was of short stature but compact and physically powerful. From a young age, he pursued martial studies with deep dedication.

His martial journey formally began under the guidance of Li Cunyi—one of the most prominent Xingyiquan masters of the time. Unlike some of Li’s other disciples, such as Shang Yunxiang who later sought further instruction from Guo Yunshen, Hao remained loyal to Li Cunyi throughout. Because his martial style remained a pure reflection of Li's own method, Hao earned his teacher's highest regard and was designated as his primary successor.

Members of the Chinese Warrior Association

Rise Within the Chinese Warrior Association

In 1911, Hao joined Li Cunyi in founding the Chinese Warrior Association (Zhonghua Wushihui) in Tianjin. He became one of its core instructors and played a central role in disseminating Xingyiquan and swordsmanship among the association’s members. Hao was present at the golden age of the Association, a time when the three great martial “Lis” of the era—Li Ruidong (Taiji), Li Shuwen (Baji), and Li Cunyi (Xingyi)—came together in mutual recognition.

During this period, Hao made a significant impression on Li Shuwen, famed for his deadly spear techniques. While few dared to perform in front of him, Hao boldly demonstrated a spear routine. Initially unimpressed, Li Shuwen soon watched intently, and when Hao finished, he stood and returned Hao’s bow, praising him as exceptional. It was a moment that cemented Hao’s place as one of the elite martial artists of the era.

Mission to Japan: Fame and Betrayal

In 1914, with the support of Ye Jianxing, Hao was sent to Japan to assess the situation of Chinese students abroad and to establish a branch of the Chinese Warrior Association. In Tokyo, he was warmly received. At a welcome banquet, he demonstrated Xingyiquan and Bagua sword, astonishing both Chinese students and Japanese educators. Soon, he gained widespread fame, earning the title "Chinese Hero" from members of the Japanese imperial family.

Hao’s victories over Japanese martial artists became a source of national pride for the Chinese diaspora. His success sparked a boom in martial arts interest among overseas Chinese students. Despite generous offers, Hao refused to teach Xingyiquan to Japanese nationals, elevating its reputation as an exclusive and highly valued art.

However, this fame attracted deception. A Japanese ronin, posing as a Chinese expatriate, became Hao’s student. Over three years, Hao taught him deeply and openly, hoping the student would lead the Japanese branch. But the ronin eventually revealed his identity and publicly challenged Hao. In a match clouded by psychological stress, Hao lost.

Humiliated by the betrayal and the loss to his own student—who was, in reality, a skilled kendo expert—Hao abruptly closed the Japan branch and returned to China. He did not return to Tianjin, avoiding his teacher and peers out of shame. Instead, he accepted an invitation from the Fengtian Army, teaching martial arts to the bodyguard unit under Zhang Zuolin.

Warlord Zhang Zuolin (1875 - 1928) - Leader of the Fentian Clique

Final Years and Controversial Death

In the northeast, Hao continued to teach and gained a strong reputation among the military. He led troops in anti-bandit campaigns and was respected by both soldiers and civilians. However, in 1923, his life came to a sudden end. Two conflicting accounts exist:

One version states Hao died in battle after being struck by a stray bullet. Despite being wounded, he fought on, killing dozens of bandits before succumbing to infection, having refused Western medical treatment.
Another version holds that he died of depression, unable to bear the disgrace of his loss in Japan.

On his deathbed, Hao reportedly said:

"Alas, my martial arts have not reached their pinnacle—otherwise, what bullet could I not evade?"

His senior disciple Li Yulin personally retrieved his remains, cared for his widow and orphaned son Hao Jiajun, and continued his legacy. Hao’s death was mourned deeply, and a shrine was erected in his honor.

Conclusion

Hao Enguang embodied the virtues and vulnerabilities of the traditional martial hero. His devotion to his teacher, technical brilliance, national pride, and tragic fall reflect the spirit of a bygone martial era. Whether his death came by bullet or by broken heart, Hao's life reminds us that martial arts are not only about physical power but also about psychological resilience, humility, and foresight. One could argue his conservative mentality and racial superiority complex led to the failure of both his art and his loss of life. In the end, he remains a deeply respected yet sobering figure in the annals of Chinese martial history.

For those seeking deeper study, you can explore many other great masters of the art in the book Dragon Body, Tiger Spirit – A Translation & Explanation of the Classic Texts of Xingyi Quan. This volume offers unique, detailed translations and explanations of the core classical texts of Xingyiquan, alongside an extensive biographical section featuring past masters.

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The Tragic Legacy of Hao Enguang: Xingyiquan Master of the Late Qing and Republican Era