While Japan has high coverage ratio of public drinking water supply, its water utilities have to deal with various managerial issues, such as stable provision of safe and clean drinking water, construction of facilities that can withstand natural disasters, or renewal of aging water plants. JWRC conducts R&D to find practical solutions to these matters.

JWRC carries out planning of research studies, technology development and provides technical support on water utilities management, as well as publishes research findings and promote technology transfer overseas.
JWRC promotes many projects in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, water utilities, universities, research institutes and private companies. The Center also forms research committees and takes the initiative in undertaking joint studies.
JWRC publicizes research outcomes in papers and through seminars, and contributes to supplying safe and good-tasting drinking water.