Is double check possible 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
Yes. A discovered check happens when moving one piece uncovers an attack from a second piece behind it, and if the moved piece itself also attacks the general, both are checking at once. Capturing one attacker or blocking one line does not answer it while the other still checks, so the general usually has to move. The exception is a single move that blocks both lines at once.
How it usually arises
Most commonly a horse moves and, in doing so, clears the line for a cannon or chariot that was resting behind it. If the horse's own new square also attacks the general, that is double check in a single move, and it is one of the most forcing tactics in the game.
Why it is so dangerous
A single check gives three possible replies: capture, block, or move. A double check usually leaves only one, because a capture or a block usually deals with only one of the two attackers. The exception is a point on both lines: if a chariot checks and a cannon behind it uses that chariot as its screen, one piece put between the chariot and the general blocks both. If the general has no safe point, it is mate on the spot, which is why any position where check is on the board is worth a second look for a hidden second attacker.
Related questions
Can you block a double check?
Usually not. Blocking one line still leaves the other attacker checking, unless the block stands on both lines, as between a chariot and the general when a cannon behind uses that chariot as its screen.
Is double check always mate?
No, only when the general has nowhere safe to go. It is often mate, but not automatically.
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