Abstract: By recalling the practice of petroleum exploration for more than half century in the Hexi Corridor area,the successful experiences and failure reasons were summarized.It was pointed out that the Hexi Corridor area was dominated by the modified continental medium to small basins,with complicated geological conditions.Petroleum exploration in the area should be started on basis of resumed basinal prototypes and advanced technology.The source rocks and basin evolution should be highlighted,and 3 D exploration and dynamic modification should by carried out for successful petroleum exploration in the area.