Can the two generals face each other in xiangqi?
These answers restate the rules implemented by our open-source engine, which follows the WXF laws for movement, checkmate and both repetition rulings: a side that forces a repetition by perpetual check or perpetual chase loses rather than drawing. The chase half has not been validated against the official casebook. Where an answer refers to a specific position, that position lives on the linked reference page, where the build verifies it before publishing.
Direct answer
No. The two generals may never stand on the same file with an empty line between them — this is the flying general rule (白臉將). Any move that would create the position is illegal, including moving the last piece out from between them.
Why it is a rule and not a capture
Some descriptions say a general may "fly" down the file and capture the other. In the WXF laws the position simply cannot arise: the rule is a restriction on moving, not a capturing move. Practically it comes to the same thing, because nobody may create it.
The pin it creates
This is the strongest pin in the game. A piece standing alone between the two generals may never leave the file, whatever the board looks like. A horse, elephant or advisor always leaves the file when it moves, so it is completely frozen; a chariot, cannon or soldier may still move along the file, but never off it.
To break out: move your own general off the file, or put a second piece on the line so neither one is the only thing keeping the generals apart.
Related questions
Can I move a piece from between the generals?
Only if another piece remains on the line, or your general leaves it. Otherwise the move is illegal.
Does this count as check?
Exposing your own general this way is treated as leaving yourself in check, so the move is refused outright.
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