Duhu refers to a specific administrative title or office within the Chinese Empire, primarily during the Han and Tang dynasties. It was associated with the protectorate, which served as a type of administrative division established in frontier regions. These protectorates functioned as the highest government agencies in these areas and were directly responsible to the imperial court.
The individual holding the position of protectorate governor was known as a duhu. This official was tasked with overseeing military operations when necessary and providing instructions to small dependent states and minority tribes within the region. While distinct from the Jiedushi position, a single person could hold both titles simultaneously during periods of rebellion or wartime.