Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of scrub typhus in Baoshan, Yunnan province, China, and to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of scrub typhus in Baoshan. Methods The data of scrub typhus in Baoshan from 2006 to 2016 was collected from the National Information Reporting System of Infectious Diseases, and then analyzed using the descriptive epidemiological method and chi-square test. Results A total of 5 205 cases of scrub typhus were reported in Baoshan from 2006 and 2016, with a mean annual incidence rate of 18.82/100 000. The incidence rate of the disease increased by 65 times, from 0.57/100 000 in 2006 to 37.74/100 000 in 2016, showing a rising trend over the years (χ²=2 762.798, P=0.000). The peak incidence period of the year was from July to October, with the number of cases accounting for 88.90% of the total cases. The numbers of male and female patients accounted for 49.91% and 50.09% of the total number of cases, respectively; the mean annual incidence was 18.32/100 000 and 19.34/100 000, respectively. The cases of scrub typhus occurred in all age groups, with the majority aged 25 to 64 years old (55.62%); the highest incidence was among children aged 1 to 7 years old, followed by those aged 50 to 69 years old. The number of patients increased over the years, among whom farmers accounted for the largest percentage (64.92%) and showed an upward trend, followed by scattered children (19.27%) and students (11.39%). The incidence rate was highest in Longling county and lowest in Longyang district. There was a high incidence of scrub typhus in rural areas, with a fluctuating and increasing trend from 2006 to 2016. Conclusion The incidence of scrub typhus in Baoshan is relatively high, especially in the rural areas and among children, middle-aged or elderly population. Based on the epidemiology of scrub typhus, disease surveillance and health education should be enhanced in those areas and populations to reduce the incidence of the disease.