Based on the CBERS images in 2000, CBERS images in 2005 and TM images in 2010, dynamic change in cultivated land and landscape pattern along the mainstream of the Tarim River from 2000 to 2010 were studied using the 3S technology and the analytical method of combining the mathematical statistics and landscape pattern quantity analysis. Results show that the area of the cultivated land along the mainstream of the Tarim River varied significantly, increasing from 1.61 × 105 hm² or 3.89% of the total land area in 2000 to 3.27 × 105 hm² or 7.88% in 2010, that is, by 1.66×104 hm² a^-1; spatial variation of the cultivated land was also significant between sections of the river. At Sections A, B, C and D cultivated land spread as wide as 21~23 kilometer, 11~16 kilometer, 6~17 kilometer, and 4~9 kilometer, respectively and the spread was the fastest at Sections C and D on north bank of the river and Sections D and E on the south bank. During the period from 2000 to 2010, the cultivated land increased steadily in number of patches with its area weight shape index rising; and its patches becoming more irregular in shape. On the whole, the landscape aggregation degree was moderate; the distribution uniformity of patches various in size within a landscape and landscape diversity declined; and the proportions the various types of landscapes account for became less harmonious.