There are many mountainous areas in the southern portion of the modern country of China. But we are talking about ancient China.  In ancient times, China was composed of pockets of civilization. The early people in China settled mostly along the Yangtze River and Yellow River. Different pockets were ruled by different kings.   These early people were protected from the rest of the world by many natural barriers. One of the most impressive barriers was the Himalayan Mountains.  The Himalayan Mountains are not located in modern day China. They run along the border to the south. In ancient times, these mountains helped to protect the early Chinese people from invasion.   The Himalayan Mountains to the south are very rugged. Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world! But Mount Everest is not the only high peak in the Himalayan Mountains. The Himalayas include ten (10!) of the highest peaks in the world.   Where are the Himalayan Mountains? Climbing Mount Everest  Mount Everest Game   See Also: Mountains of the World Return to Ancient China for Kids Index