Abstract:This paper establishes an index system of regional innovation capability consisted of knowledge creation capability, knowledge acquisition capability, innovation capability of enterprises, innovation environment and innovation in economic performance. By using factorization analysis, this paper evaluates the regional innovation capabilities of eight economic areas in China, and compares them from the five aspects. The paper studies the historical aspects for regional innovation capability between 2005 and 2011. The results show that innovation capabilities of the northern coastal areas and the eastern coastal areas have obvious advantages over other regions, and Southwest China, the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, the middle reaches of the Yellow River, the southern coastal region follow close behind In contrast, northeast and northwest regions are relatively weak. We find the innovation ability of Southwest has been moving up faster in recent years, while the southern coastal region facing rapid decline. Then, we give some suggestions about enhancing the regional innovation capability.