[Objective] To explore the impact and dynamic changes of landscape patterns on the soil erosion process, in order to provide a basis for ecological protection and restoration in the upper reaches of Minjiang River. [Methods] Landscape ecology theory and universal soil loss equation were applied to analyze the changes of soil and water loss and landscape pattern in Zagunao watershed in the upper reaches of Minjiang River between 1990 and 2015. [Results] The soil and water loss and landscape pattern of Zagunao Watershed changed obviously during the period from 1990 to 2015. The area of grassland increased from 70125 hm to 82568 hm, and the area of forest and farmland increased slightly. The area of unused land and other land reduced 12542 hm. The vegetation coverage had increased while the soil erosion had decreased significantly during the past 25 years. The area of soil erosion with moderate erosion intensity or higher had decreased, and the area of extreme erosion reduced 36102.69 hm.[Conclusion] The restoration of grassland effectively reduced the amount and intensity of soil erosion in the study area during the past 25 years.