[Objective] Soil erosion is complex and diverse in Tibet Autonomous Region locating in the southwest of China

attributed to its special environment represented by high altitude and cold climate. Through field survey

this study aims to systematically understand the characteristics of soil erosion in densely populated areas in Central and Eastern Tibet

and to provide a basis for regional soil erosion control in the future.[Methods] The survey was conducted from August 12 to 28

2018. We selected 11 typical watersheds along a transect across Linzhi

Gongbujiangda

Lhasa

Qushui and Shigatse areas. We investigated and analyzed soil erosion of local primary land use types

including forest

grassland

and farmland.[Results] In the southeastern part of Tibet

continuous rainfall caused severe erosion in forest

farmland and on road slope. Small gullies appeared in the forest

collapse occurred in the cropland with ongoing developed headward erosion

while drop sill

gully

and upper-soil collapse occurred on the road slope. In the valleys of Central Tibet

gully erosion on the proluvial fan/pluvial tableland and terraces were severe. The densely distributed gullies and channels destroyed the landforms

and seriously affected local agriculture and animal husbandry. The wide valley area presented complex erosion characteristics influenced by both wind and water.[Conclusion] The soil erosion process in Tibet Autonomous Region is complex and diverse at present

and it has a high risk of accelerated erosion due to climate change and intensifying human activities. Thus

it is necessary to systematically study soil erosion process and mechanism

and urgent to enhance the soil and water conservation work in this area. Moreover

it is also important to strengthen our awareness of environmental protection to this fragile ecological environment in Tibet. All these provide the foundations for the implement of the green development concept "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" proposed by the government of China.