In 2014, Japan is scheduled to launch GCOM(Global Change Observation Mission)-C for the global change observation mission, where SGLI(Second-generation Global Imager) is planned for optical multi-channel observation ofa radiation budget and a carbon cycle. Depending on the spectral channels, SGLI consists ofS GLI-VNR(Visible Near IR) and SGLI-IRS(IR Scanning). Their main design schemes are mostly based upon those ofthe previous instruments ever developed in Japan, which is intended to reduce the development risk for the advanced performance. Accordingly, for the better understanding ofSG LI, the paper reviews the history oft he Japanese optical payloads from two different views: VNR and IR. Through the review, a comparison among the Japanese optical instruments is made to distinguish the development trend toward SGLI ofGC OM-C.