In Japan’s energy portfolio，the supply of coal has always accounted for about 20%，and this value is higher than that of other developed countries. It can be inferred that the utilization of coal resources in Japan has certain advantages. This paper briefly introduces the developing course and characteristics of the coal industry in Japan，and attempts to analyze the advantages and underlying causes. As Chinese coal industry is in the process of transforming，this paper also summarizes the Japan’s experience and points out the enlightenment for China.