Abstract
Based on Wenchuan MS8.0 earthquake damage investigation, this paper summarized the characteristics of the building damage in rural area. To minimize damages and casualties caused by earthquakes in future, we strongly recommend choosing new-site for rebuilding the area. At same time, some important rules, such as of the Code for seismic design of buildings, evaluation on seismic geological hazard, should be followed in design and construction. Moreover, the local government should also play an important role in the post-earthquake reconstruction.