[Objective] General trend and terrain gradient distribution pattern and the influence factors of land use change in Dianchi watershed were analyzed to provide the optimal allocation of land use pattern and the reference for the sustainable development of land resources.[Methods] We used range and dynamic degree of land use to analyze the general trend of land use change. The terrain distribution index method with respect to the terrain factors(landform relief, slope, aspect, terrain niche) was analyzed. Influence factors of the terrain gradient effect were analyzed by qualitative analysis method.[Results] (1) The main land use types of the study region from 2000 to 2014 were cultivated land, forest land, grassland and construction land, among which, grassland had obviously decreased and construction land obviously increased. (2) The pattern of land use type in different terrain gradient has obvious level distribution and change trend. With the increase of topographic gradient, the proportional coverage by water area, cultivated land and construction land, grassland and unused land, woodland gradually increased. These land use types preponderated at lowest, low and mid-low, mid-low, mid-high and high terrain gradients, respectively. With the increase of topographic gradient, the distribution index of water area, cultivated land and construction land(except the lowest level gradient of cultivated land and construction) declined, the distribution index of grassland and unused land didn not change obviously, the distribution index of forest distribution increased. (3) Terrain gradient effect of land use pattern change is mutually influenced by basic terrain factors, promoted social and economic factors and control policy factors of macroeconomic regulation.[Conclusion] The terrain gradient distribution pattern of land use in Dianchi watershed changed distinctly and was affected by terrain, social economy and policy.