Based on the following remote sensing satellite images: TM images obtained in 1990, ETM images in 2000 and CBERS 02B images in 2010, with the terrain niche index and distribution index, using human-computer interactive interpretation and the spatial overlay analyst of Geographical Information System, the land use variation data of Liupanshui Prefecture in Guizhou Province from 1990 to 2010 was obtained and its spatial distribution characteristics were quantitatively analyzed. The results showed that: 1) The spatial distribution of various land use types changed definitely during the two decades: the superiority of construction land in lower terrains increased and it had a trend of extending to higher terrains; the superior distribution range of paddy fields decreased to sections 1－7 from setions 1－9 but its superiority in low terrains increased; as a result of the increase of the superiority of construction land and paddy fields in low terrains, the superior distribution region of dry crop land and shrub land diminished and shifted up one or two sections. 2) During the 20 years, the whole spatial distribution pattern of land use in the study area did not change obviously, the terrain niche index curve still kept its three-section model; various land use types distributed alternatively, the obvious concentric ring and zonal distribution pattern centered on construction land was not formed. 3) Because of the particular geological environments in the study area and the contradiction relationship between human and land, the terrain suitability elastic of land use types partly intervened by human beings was stretched, which made the spatial distribution of some land use types such as dry crop land and construction land violated its natural quality, they appeared in higher terrain sections and had the trend of shifting up to higher sections.