[Objective] Appropriate measures on riverbank slope were significant for soil and water conservation, water purification, and the health of riparian ecosystem. Artificial rainfall experiment was used to study the dynamics of runoff, sediment yield and nutrient loss.[Methods] The effects of rainfall intensity, slope gradient and protective measures were analyzed. Altogether, nine experimental plots were set and principal component analysis method was used to find the slope protection design which produced the best protective effect.[Results] Tall fescue was most effective on runoff and sediment reduction, while crown vetch had the largest effect in reducing nutrient loss. On slopes with riparian gradient of 30° or 45°, and with 0° or less crest, tall fescue should be used for slope protection. On slope with gradient of 45°and crest of 18°, Crown varia was appropriate for slope protection.[Conclusion] Tall fescue was most effective on runoff and sediment reduction, followed by crown vetch. Crown vetch was the most effective on reducing nutrient loss.