Abstract: In the paper,taking Yan An nearby regions as a example, the land types of loess hills and gully areas of northern Shanxi province are discussed. Loess hills and gully areas are an important region for developing agriculture.The loss of water and erosion of Soil are severe, in the region. Based upon specific natural condition of Yah An nearby region, some Principles for classifying land types are given.According to these principles,taking landform, vegetation and soil as chief criteria for classifying land types, 5 land types of first category and 23 land types of second category are identified in Yah An nearby regions.A hierarchical scheme for land classification in the region is introduced. Horizontal and vertical structure,and developing diagram of land types as well as the physical features of main land types are discussed.In addition,an approach to the direction of production-construction in the hills and gully areas of northern Shanxi province is also made in the paper.