Through more than twenty years' development, an integrated research system of remote sensing application has come into being, which is composed of spaceflight, aerial survey, ground detection and combination with GIS. Remote sensing in western China is an important technology for the investigation and monitoring of resources, environments and hazards. In this paper, the authors first reviewed the experimental research of remote sensing technique in western China, then systemically summarized the current situation of remote sensing application in western China and briefly enumerated parts of results. Combined with the requirements of Western Development, the paper also discussed the future development strategy of remote sensing in western China.