Abstract: The diverse natural geography， human environment， and ethnic composition along the Yunnan-Tibet Tea-Horse Road have collectively fostered numerous distinctive traditional settlements. From the perspective of territorial cultural landscapes， this study re-examines the integration of tangible and intangible aspects in their formation. It proposes a framework of landscape elements structured around four dimensions： “heaven forms its potential”， “earth shows its posture”， “man gives its meaning”， and “spirit inspires its thinking”. Through a narrative that interweaves culture and landscape， and supported by a detailed case study of Nuodeng Ancient Village， this research identifies the key characteristics of these territorial cultural landscapes. Furthermore， it analyzes the mechanisms through which the natural environment， trade， ethnic cultures， and diverse religions influence and interact with these settlements. Based on these findings， this study proposes conservation guidelines for traditional settlements along the Tea-Horse Road， thereby expanding the perspectives and pathways for safeguarding these historic communities.