A new method is proposed to solve the problems in existing qualitative represent ation methods and topological inference algorithms. First, a qualitative represe ntation mechanism based on conceptual neighborhood is described. Then, a computa tion procedure for composition tables in different topological relation levels i s put forward. Finally, a hierarchical topological inference algorithm is demons trated. The algorithm can select a suitable representation and inference level f or a given problem, and can work out a reasonable solution when other algorithms fail to give answers. The hierarchical method proposed in this paper is cogniti vely valid, and is helpful for general qualitative reasoning research.