This paper introduces OpenCSDB, a linked data application in the scientific database of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CSDB) project. The background, applicability, implementation principles, software architecture, and application effects are discussed in detail. Linked data meets the needs of scientific databases as a low-cost, inclusive, adaptive, open access mechanism. Although there are new challenges, linked data can still be considered the best choice for scientific data. As proved by the achievement of OpenCSDB in the “Eleventh Five-Year” program, OpenCSDB will promote the sharing of scientific data and play a greater role in the “Twelfth Five-Year” program.