With lithium-insertion type anode and capacitive cathode, li ion capacitor combines advantages of li ion batteries and electrochemical capacitors and shows nice performance in terms of energy density, power density and lifespan. It is regarded one of the most promising energy-storage devices for new energy vehicles. However, in addition to formation of solid electrolyte interface and high irreversible capacity loss in the first cycle, lithium ion capacitor also suffers from kinetic and capacity mismatch between anode and cathode, which hinders its further development. To enhance its energy storage performance, researchers have been committed to develop novel electrode materials. Depending on the electrochemical reactions, anode materials are roughly divided into three types, which are insertion type, conversion type and alloying type, respectively. Here, besides anode materials, several research focuses on carbonous cathode materials for lithium ion capacitor are also briefly summarized. A perspective concerning further research and application of lithium ion capacitor is presented in the end.