Abstract: In order to comprehensively promote the construction of ecological civilization, and explore the relationship between human settlements and the natural environment in ethnic areas of Southwest China, this study focuses on 765 traditional villages located within the Tibetan-Qiang-Yi Corridor. Based on statistical analysis of their spatial distribution characteristics, the geographical weighted regression model (GWR) is utilized to analyze the influence mechanism of natural and social factors on the spatial distribution of traditional villages in the corridor. The research reveals that traditional villages in the Tibetan-Qiang-Yi Corridor exhibit a 'multi-core clustering' spatial distribution pattern, with dual-density cores formed in the southern region around Baoshan City and Dali-Lijiang Prefecture, and multiple sub-density cores emerging in the northern region such as Yushu Prefecture and Ganzi Prefecture. The geographical weighted regression results indicate that the coupled effect of topography and river systems primarily shapes the spatial distribution differences of traditional villages. Meanwhile, the mutual feedback between transportation and economic development inhibits the retention of traditional villages, while the regional diverse cultural element system serves as a key factor promoting the protection and inheritance of traditional villages. Based on these findings, this study proposes a regional overall protection strategy for traditional villages in the Tibetan-Qiang-Yi Corridor, aiming to provide support for the construction of a systematic framework for the protection of historical and cultural heritage in mountainous ethnic areas of Southwest China.