In this paper，investigations on the current states of power distribution grids in China have been introduced that cover the surveys of the practical distribution asset utilization，the simultaneity factor of feeder loading，the load compositions and characteristics，the reliability index and reliability value and the integration of distributed generations of renewable resources. Based on the survey results in the investigations，12 facts are clearly presented. It shows that the challenges to modernize the distribution grids in China are to improve the asset utilazition rates，the reliability of power supplies，as well as to integrate increasing amount of variable distributed renewable resources. Were it to do so，it would permit the sustainable development of the economy and deal with the increasingly tense pressure from energy and environment. Furthermore，based on the challenges 6 potential R&D requirements have been identified.