As a national strategic scientific and technological force, national scientific research institutions play an extremely important role in solving major issues concerning the overall situation and long-term development of the country. As one of the important technological powers, Japan’s national scientific research institutions have played an important role in the process of technological innovation. Based on the background of the development of science and technology in Japan, this paper combs the characteristics of the functional orientation and institutional management of the national scientific research institutions from the perspectives of historical development and scientific and technological innovation systems. It is found that the functions of the national scientific research institutions in Japan have the following characteristics: the changes in the functions of the national scientific research institutions keep pace with the needs of the overall economic and Social Development of Japan; to clarify the legal status of the state-owned scientific research institutions, to maintain the vitality of the institutions, to reform the talent management system, and to promote the rational flow and competitive development of talents. Finally, the following suggestions are put forward for China’s national scientific research institutions:1) Adjust the positioning timely according to the national strategic needs, and suggest that the government grant more autonomy to national scientific research institutions in order to adopt flexible management systems to promote the efficient output of scientific research results; 2) According to the different positioning of national scientific research institutions, improve the construction of the classification evaluation system;3)Formulate talent introduction and training plans, funding supporting policies for scientific and technological innovation talents, entrepreneurial leaders, industry urgently needed talents, and outstanding young talents.

Science and Technology Innovation Policy, National Scientific Research Institution, Strategic Positioning, Japan