The invention relates to a power distribution network fault diagnosis method utilizing historical fault data. The method comprises the following steps: firstly, a fault information database is established from power distribution network fault rescue records, fault attributes contained in the fault information database are determined; then, the data format of the fault attributes is made to conform to the standard, and fault attribute data in the fault information database are discretized; an association rule mining method is used for mining a strong association rule contained in the fault attribute data in the fault information database; finally, according to actual conditions of a fault and the mined strong association rule, a diagnosis result of the power distribution network fault is obtained. The power distribution network fault diagnosis method utilizing the historical fault data is beneficial for improving safe operation of a power distribution network, and is high in reliability; besides, the power distribution network fault diagnosis method has the advantages of being wide in application rage, flexible to apply, and capable of being operated off line, and being influenced by the distribution network automation degree to a low extent, and the like, thereby providing a good basis for power distribution network fault diagnosis and state evaluation.