OBJECTIVE: To provide reference of Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) industry development in China. METHODS: By using the method of literature research combining with field survey research, the development status, training certification and working mode of CRC industry in Japan were summarized, and suggestions on the development of the CRC industry in China were proposed. RESULTS: Japanese CRC industry gradually matured, and staff tended to be stable, the standardized training and certification system have been established, the services include the support on medical institutions, clinical trials, clinical researches and other multiple aspects. CRC industry in China should perfect the company system construction, carry out standardized training and certification examination, strengthen the hospitals' direct management of CRC, and expand the CRC services in clinical research. CONCLUSIONS: The experience of CRC industry development in Japan, including system construction, standardized training and working mode, is a good example for China CRC industry to learn.