According to the principle of sequence stratigraphy and the relationship between the tectonic structure and deposition, the structure pattern, sequence type and sequence model were studied in Lishu rift, and the relationship between tectonic structure and deposition was analyzed. According to the structural characteristics, rift period of Lishu rift was divided into three evolution stages, i.e. initial rifting, rapid rifting and depression periods. Accordingly, three two-order sequences and seven third-order sequences were identified in Lishu rift, and the sequence frame was built, and the sedimentary characteristics of each sequence were described. Furthermore, based on comprehensive study of structural characteristics, climate change, sediment supply and sequence development, the results show that the rift period develops three sequence types and three types of sequence model. SQ1 and SQ2 sequences are diluvium sequence of the initial rifting period and SQ3 sequence is lake sequence of rapid rifting period, which all develop simple half graben slope sequence model. SQ4, SQ5 and SQ6 sequences are lake sequence of rapid rifting period and develop rapid rift gentle slope slope-break sequence model. SQ7 sequence is alluvial sequence of depression period and develops transition stage sequence model.