The 87-year-old Guo's lifelong passion for these cultural treasures began in 1960 when he was a teacher. His passion for the carvings caught the attention of officials at the local cultural relics protection bureau, who invited him to join their efforts in safeguarding the historical sites.

In the early days, Guo's commitment to cultural preservation was tested by harsh conditions on Mount Beishan, where he lived without running water or electricity. Undeterred, he meticulously documented the carvings with detailed drawings under the dim light of a kerosene lamp.