Early in the 20th century when the trails were treacherous and equipment very basic Mr. Fang Qing-mian climbed Yushan (alternative names: Jade Mountain, Niitakayama in Japanese) over 1000 times to take summit photographs of various climbing groups. This feat required a lot of determination and shows his deep affected for the mountain. He became known as “Uncle Niitakayama.”

Two years ago his son, Fang Zhong-xiong, closed down “Niitaka photography Studio” established in Chiayi over 80 years ago. He has now permanently donated almost 200 precious glass negatives of Yushan and Alishan, more than 800 photographs of Taiwanese scenes in the Japanese era and early post WW2 period and 34 cultural relics, including an antique wooden camera, a homemade camera and homemade crampons left behind by his father, to Yushan National Park Headquarters.

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Yushan National Park Headquarters