Jin Xiangyang holds a banner promoting Wenzhou after summiting Qomolangma, the world's highest peak. [Photo/66wz.com]
Jin Xiangyang, a determined adventurer from Wenzhou, achieved an extraordinary feat by reaching the peak of Qomolangma, the world's highest peak, with an elevation of 8,848.86 meters, on May 18 at 6:18 am.
Following this momentous accomplishment, Jin embarked on another exhilarating journey and conquered Lhotse, the world's fourth-highest peak, standing at an impressive altitude of 8,516 m. This remarkable achievement on May 20 at 9:11 am made him the first individual from Zhejiang province to reach the peaks of Qomolangma and Lhotse back-to-back.
Jin, 39, originally hailing from Longwan district in East China's Wenzhou, currently operates a valve manufacturing company in the city.
Jin's passion for outdoor camping ignited in 2020, and he quickly developed a love for the adventurous lifestyle. In 2021, seeking new challenges, he modified his off-road vehicle and embarked on a road trip.
His fascination with Qomolangma was sparked during an evening in late June 2022, when he arrived in Dingri county, Tibet. As he gazed at the snow-capped peak, illuminated by the mesmerizing glow of the sunset, Qomolangma left an indelible impression on him. Upon learning that the Zhejiang Mountaineering Association was organizing an expedition to Qomolangma, Jin promptly joined the team.
He received a challenge from the team leader to climb the equivalent of 8,848 floors by New Year's Day. Starting at 15 floors a day, he gradually increased his endurance and eventually surpassed his target by climbing over 10,000 floors before attempting Qomolangma.
Subsequently, Jin participated in snow mountain expeditions organized by the Zhejiang mountaineering team. These included Naima Peak at an altitude of 5,588 m, Ukuchu at 5,526 m, and Balangshan at 5,040 m. Each expedition deepened his understanding of climbing and further honed his mountaineering skills.
In addition to mountain expeditions, Jin engaged in various endurance training activities, undertaking a challenging backpack hike in Xinjiang and retracing the footsteps of Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang, covering over 100 kilometers on foot.
Finally, on May 11, Jin and the mountaineering team reached the base camp, commencing their ascent from the southern slope.
