How did Song circuits supervise local officials?

To supervise local officials, the Song dynasty utilized a system of circuits, which functioned as units of supervision rather than direct administration.1

Within these circuits, the government appointed intendants who were specifically charged with overseeing the civil administration of local officials, such as prefects and district magistrates. This structure was part of a broader strategy of checks and balances implemented by the dynasty’s founder, Taizu, to consolidate power at the central court and prevent local autonomy.12

By dividing the empire into these supervisory units, the central government could monitor the activities of local administrators, who were responsible for the welfare of the people in their respective areas. This system ensured that even at the lowest levels of direct imperial rule, officials remained accountable to the central authority.1