National Cancer Research Center was founded in Tsukiji, Tokyo in 1962 as the core institution for implementing national policy against cancer. In 1992, as its activities expanded and developed, the National Cancer Center Hospital, East was opened in Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture.

In l994, a research branch, the National Cancer Center Research Institute, East, was established adjacent to the Hospital East on the same campus. In 2005, Clinical Development Center was opened by combining a part of East Hospital and Research Institute, East. Accordingly the NCC now consists of the two campuses in Tsukiji and Kashiwa.

In l999, the new hospital building was constructed in the Tsukiji Campus and began its operation.

In 1968, NCC was accepted as full UICC member.