Mountain climbing has become quite popular in Taiwan in recent years, yet accidents continue to occur frequently. As a mountain-loving comic artist, Zhuang Heyuan used his knowledge of the wilderness to create the comic "Super Mountains," aiming to impart basic mountaineering knowledge to readers in an educational yet non-preachy tone. “Climbing is a very popular recreational activity, but there’s still much that needs to be taught—such as the dangers of solo climbing, types of plants, and more. I also hope this comic helps people see the beauty of Taiwan’s high mountains. How proud it is that such a small island like Taiwan boasts so many stunning ‘Hundred Peaks.’”
Zhuang Heyuan mentioned that earlier this year, news about bikini-clad hikers stirred up a lot of controversy, which left him feeling reflective. Around the same time, a friend suggested he create a comic based on mountain climbing. As inspiration built up, he said, “I’ve climbed over twenty mountains and have ten years of climbing experience. Climbing is a journey of surpassing oneself. For the comic’s theme, I naturally chose Taiwan’s highest peak—Yushan. The story depicts the protagonist and their companions on their climb up Yushan, and I also tried to include a ‘solo climbing’ scenario to raise awareness among readers about the level of preparation such an act requires.”
"Super Mountains" follows a male protagonist who meets a group of fellow mountain enthusiasts in a university climbing club and later reunites with them as adults to take on the challenge of Yushan. Zhuang Heyuan meticulously illustrates everything from the climbers’ clothing and gear to the natural plants of the mountains—such as the “three principles of layering” for mountaineers, including the need to carry two-piece rain suits, knee pads, and gaiters. Unique plants like Yushan Gentian and Yushan Small Ivy are featured, and through the dialogue of the main characters, the comic introduces a wealth of knowledge about Taiwan’s high mountains, such as the concept of the “Five Great Mountains, Three Sharp Peaks, and One Wonder.” The comic essentially becomes a fun, educational mountaineering textbook, subtly enriching readers with a broad range of forest and mountain knowledge.