Zhang San, a master woodcarver with extraordinary skills, is unfairly treated by his father and receives only meager compensation for his hard work. Disheartened, he leaves the family and sets out on his own, starting with a street stall. Through his exceptional craftsmanship, he restores antiques and takes on Buddha statue commissions. He also steps forward during flood rescue efforts, gradually earning success and respect. Faced with competition from machine-made products, he remains committed to traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern technology. His once-favored family eventually falls into poverty, while Zhang San builds a family and a thriving career, takes on apprentices, and spends ten years carving the magnificent wood sculpture A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains, preserving the spirit of traditional craftsmanship through his skillful hands.