One day, Cao Jingzhi was accused by other officials in the imperial court of corruption and abuse of power.

Cao Guojiu felt so ashamed and disappointed by his brother's misconduct that he gave up his official career and went to the countryside to lead a reclusive life.

[1]: 301  During this time, he met the immortals Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who taught him Taoist magical arts.

[2] Cao is often depicted dressed in official robes and holding a jade tablet or paiban (clapper).

In the television show Jackie Chan Adventures, Cao was shown to be the Immortal who sealed away Tchang Zu, The Thunder Demon.