Based on the introduction of concepts for temporal-geograp hic information systems(TGIS),and rele-vant concept s including cartograp hic scale,extent,resolution and scaling,progresses of TGIS in western and Chi-na were reviewed briefly. Then the spatial and temporary properties,and the database construction method of TGIS,main applications of TGIS in regional soil erosion researches,including patio-temporary analysis of landuse change,interpolation of sampling data,were discussed. Emerging issues for TGIS research and pplication,in-cluding the assessmentof spatial-temporal accuracy and uncertainty,were discussed at last.