Abstract: Basic research serves as a vital source of scientific and technological innovation. After WWII, Japan strategically shifted from a “trade-oriented nation” to a “science and technology-oriented nation”, placing significant emphasis on basic research. To promote and support it, the Japanese government established a complete set of science and technology innovation policies. Organizationally, the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation(CSTI)provides overall coordination. Systematically, the integration of science and technology innovation industry, academia, and government is promoted. Legally, the Science, Technology and Innovation Basic Act serves as the fundamental framework, implemented through five-year cycles of the “Science, Technology and Innovation Basic Plan”. Practically, measures include promoting the legalization of basic research subjects and improve the scientific research funding system. The Japanese government has promoted the development of basic research through long-term planning, focusing on key areas, responding to social needs, innovation driven, talent cultivation, and international cooperation, achieving the second highest number of Nobel laureates in the field of natural sciences in the world since the 21st century. Considering challenges facing basic research in China, the paper calls for strengthened top-level design, increased investment in basic research, and reforms to the science and technology system.

Key words: basic research, scientific research funding, science and technology innovation policy, policy implications, comparison between China and Japan