The industry of hydrogen energy for fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) is in a rapid start-up stage in China. Understanding of the danger of hydrogen and safe use of the hydrogen energy are the basis for the healthy development of the FCEV industry. In this study, we analyze the physical and chemical properties of hydrogen and the compatibility issues for hydrogen and materials and then propose three basic principles for the safe use of hydrogen. Subsequently, the research outputs and technical measures for the safe use of high-pressure hydrogen energy in Japan are thoroughly introduced and some suggestions are presented for the safe use of hydrogen in accordance with the Chinese situation. First, China should conduct overall planning and design, increase investment in science and technology, and form a research system that takes the National Hydrogen Safety Laboratory as the main body and has active participation from social science and technology forces. Moreover, it should perfect its hydrogen safety standards system for vehicles and build a 70 MPa hydrogen-related equipment manufacturing system.