How did geography affect life in ancient china

Base on the question, I would say that their civilizations developed around its major river valley They also has an advantage of being naturally protected by mountains and deserts which provided protection so that it could develop mostly, not totally protected from outside influence. 

China has long distances and physical barriers that separates itself from the Middle East, India, and Egypt. China didn't have contact with the outside world. Their empire came to include many regions with varieties of climates and landforms. The rivers provided water for irrigation and served as transportation routes. The first two regions had harsh climates, and only nomads had occupied it.