Abstract:Space syntax believes that the interaction between people and the environment originates from the organization of the spatial form，and the spatial form emphasizes the dynamic social environment. The road is the basic skeleton of the city，and the spatial syntax explains the characteristics of the urban spatial structure by analyzing the axis of the road. Arc GIS has been committed to the description of geographic information and building environment information. Through analysis，it can be more intuitive to understand the relationship between urban buildings and the characteristics of urban structure.This paper uses a variety of spatial analysis techniques to systematically analyze the geographical environment，landscape pattern，urban pattern，typical landmarks and other spatial elements of the main historical cities in the Hexi Corridor during the Ming and Qing Dynasties to study the characteristics of the city in the Hexi Corridor area，and explore the cities in the Hexi Corridor. The protection of traditional style and the new path of sustainable development seek the coordinated development of the city，culture and nature.