Most people struggle to climb mountains with their legs—but Sun Guo Shan does it on his hands. At 38, this fearless adventurer has taken on a challenge that seems almost impossible: scaling China’s most legendary peaks without using his feet. What started as a test of endurance has now turned into a mission to rewrite history.
The Beginning of an Unbelievable Journey
A former educator, Sun began training for handstand climbing in May 2023, inspired by the importance of physical fitness during the COVID-19 pandemic. His goal? To conquer 50 of China’s most famous mountains by spring 2025, promoting health and honoring the country’s breathtaking landscapes.
Going Viral: The Moment the World Took Notice
His journey kicked off in May 2024, but the world truly took notice in November when a jaw-dropping video of him scaling Haibat, the highest peak of Wudang Mountain (1,612 meters), went viral. The internet buzzed with disbelief—was this man really climbing mountains on his hands?
“Every Chinese person carries a dream of martial arts in their heart,” Sun said. “I want to honor that spirit by completing 50 legendary peaks with my unique method.”
The Ultimate Test: 999 Steps to Glory
Then came his toughest challenge yet. In December 2024, he tackled the infamous 999 steps of Tianmen Mountain in Zhangjiajie, Hunan Province—a brutal five-hour climb filled with nearly a hundred falls. But Sun refused to quit. With sheer grit, he pulled himself to the top, proving that limits exist only in the mind.
“This is my 34th mountain, and without a doubt, the hardest,” he said after reaching the summit.
Racing Against Time for a World Record
Now, with just 16 peaks left to conquer, Sun is pushing forward to complete his mission and cement his place in history with a Guinness World Record. His incredible journey has captivated millions, proving that true strength isn’t just in the body—it’s in the will to keep going, no matter how many times you fall.