Abstract: Based on the requirement of research on the functional orientation of scenic areas in China's protected area system, this paper elucidated the unique characteristics and values/functions of the scenic areas, analyzed the limitations existing in the delineation of ecological protection redline and linkage between master planning of scenic areas and territory spatial planning. Suggestions were provided that the scenic areas should perform national spirit education function by its aesthetic view of nature, the spatial relationship between the core region of scenic areas and ecological protection redline should be dealt with scientifically, the attribution/amount of land use in different functional zones should be verified carefully in the "inteplan" of spatial planning, much attention should be paid on the protective planning of ecological conservation, typical landscape architecture and sight-seeing.