The story follows young people from Panghai Town, Kaili City, Guizhou Province. After years spent away from home, they return to find their hometown undergoing huge changes brought about by reform and opening up. Their father, Yang Dashan, leads the villagers in developing tourism, but faces challenges from the influence of outside cultures and the loss of traditional culture. After returning home, Li joins his father in protecting local traditions and restoring the environment, leading the villagers onto a path of sustainable development. Beyond the Distant Mountains depicts the changes in rural China and portrays the resilience and transformation of the Miao and Dong people. It is a realist work imbued with the spirit of the times.
