Zirconium phosphates have been extensively applied in the fields of ion exchange, intercalation, catalysis and adsorption due to the high thermal and chemical stability, strongly acid and alkali resistance. Preparation of zirconium phosphate and its derivatives are discussed by reflux, sol-gel, precipitation, hydrothermal and solvothermal methods. Zirconium phosphate films and other applications in the fields of environment-safety, electrics, optics, biomedicine and hydrogen storage are also reviewed in the article.