# J.League

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Association football league in Japan

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Football league

J.League Founded 1 November 1991; 34 years ago (1991-11-01) First season 1993 Country Japan Confederation AFC Divisions J1 League J2 League J3 League Number of clubs 60 Level on pyramid 1–3 Domestic cup(s) Emperor's Cup Fujifilm Super Cup League cup J.League YBC Levain Cup International cup(s) AFC Champions League Elite AFC Champions League Two Current champions J1: Kashima Antlers (9th title) J2: Mito HollyHock (1st title) J3: Tochigi City (1st title) (2025 season) Most championships J1: Kashima Antlers (9 titles) J2: Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo (3 titles) J3: Blaublitz Akita (2 titles) Broadcaster(s) J1: DAZN J2: DAZN J3: DAZN/Lemino Website Official website Current: 2026–27 J1 League; 8–9 August 2026 – 5–6 June 2027 2026–27 J2 League; 8–9 August 2026 – 22–23 May 2027 2026–27 J3 League; 8–9 August 2026 – 22–23 May 2027

The **Japan Professional Football League** (日本プロサッカーリーグ, *Nihon Puro Sakkā Rīgu*), a.k.a. **J.League** ([Japanese](/source/Japanese_language): Jリーグ, [Hepburn](/source/Hepburn_romanization): *Jē Rīgu*), and officially known as the **Meiji Yasuda J.League** ([Japanese](/source/Japanese_language): 明治安田Jリーグ) for sponsorship with [Meiji Yasuda Life](/source/Meiji_Yasuda_Life), is the association football league in [Japan](/source/Japan). It is responsible for organizing Japan's major professional football competitions, including the [J1](/source/J1_League), [J2](/source/J2_League) and [J3](/source/J3_League) leagues. Established in 1993 as Japan's first professional football league, it has been one of the most successful leagues in Asia. Originally founded as a single division, in 1999, the second division J2 League was established, followed by the third division J3 League in 2013.

## History

For the history of Japanese club association football before the inception of the professional league in 1993, see [Japan Soccer League](/source/Japan_Soccer_League). For a detailed history of the J2 League, see [J2 League § History](/source/J2_League#History).

### Before the professional league (pre-1992)

Before the inception of the J.League, the highest level of club football was the [Japan Soccer League](/source/Japan_Soccer_League) (JSL), which consisted of amateur clubs.[2][3] Despite being well-attended during the boom of the late 1960s and early 1970s (when Japan's national team [won the Olympic bronze medal](/source/Football_at_the_1968_Summer_Olympics) at the [1968 games in Mexico](/source/1968_Summer_Olympics)), the JSL went into decline in the 1980s, in general line with the deteriorating situation worldwide. Fans were few, the grounds were not of the highest quality, and the Japan national team was not on a par with the other Asian powerhouses. To raise the level of play domestically, to attempt to garner more fans, and to strengthen the national team, the [Japan Football Association](/source/Japan_Football_Association) (JFA) decided to form a professional league. During this era, Japanese football investors traveled exclusively to Europe to find a possible model; eventually, the Japanese embraced the model of Germany's [Bundesliga](/source/Bundesliga) to develop its own professional league.[4]

The professional association football league, J.League was formed in 1992, with eight clubs drawn from the JSL First Division, one from the Second Division, and the newly formed [Shimizu S-Pulse](/source/Shimizu_S-Pulse). At the same time, JSL changed its name to [Japan Football League](/source/Japan_Football_League_(former)), becoming a semi-professional league. Although the J.League did not officially launch until 1993, the [Yamazaki Nabisco Cup](/source/J._League_Cup) competition was held between the ten clubs in 1992 to prepare for the inaugural season.

### Inaugural season and J.League boom (1993–1995)

J.League officially kicked off its first season with ten clubs on 15 May 1993, when [Verdy Kawasaki](/source/Tokyo_Verdy) hosted [Yokohama Marinos](/source/Yokohama_F._Marinos) at the [Tokyo National Stadium](/source/National_Stadium_(Tokyo%2C_1958)).

### After the boom (1996–1999)

Despite the success in the first three years, in early 1996 the league attendance declined rapidly, coincided with the [economic slump of Japan](/source/Lost_Decade_(Japan)). In 1997, the average attendance was 10,131, compared to more than 19,000 in 1994. [Yokohama Flügels](/source/Yokohama_Fl%C3%BCgels) were merged with Yokohama Marinos due to the withdrawal of one of their major sponsors, right after they became the winners of the [1998 Emperor's Cup](/source/1998_Emperor's_Cup) on 1 January 1999.

### Change of infrastructure and game formats (1999–2004)

Main article: [J2 League](/source/J2_League)

The league's management realized that they were heading in the wrong direction. In order to solve the problem, the management came out with two solutions.

First, they announced the J.League Hundred Year Vision, in which they aim to make 100 professional association football clubs in the nation of Japan by 2092, which would be the hundredth season. The league also encouraged the clubs to promote football or non-football related sports and health activities, to acquire local sponsorships, and to build good relationships with their hometowns at the grass-root level. The league believed that this would allow the clubs to bond with their respective cities and towns and get support from local government, companies, and citizens. In other words, clubs would be able to rely on the locals, rather than major national sponsors.

Second, the infrastructure of the league was heavily changed in 1999. The league acquired nine clubs from the semi-professional [JFL](/source/Japan_Football_League_(former)) and one club from J. League to create a two-division system. The top flight became the J.League Division 1 (J1) with 16 clubs while J.League Division 2 (J2) was launched with ten clubs in 1999. The second-tier [Japan Football League (former)](/source/Japan_Football_League_(former)), now became third-tier [Japan Football League](/source/Japan_Football_League).

Also, until 2004 (with the exception of [1996 season](/source/1996_J.League)), the J1 season was [divided into two](/source/Apertura_and_Clausura). At the end of each full season, the champion from each half played a [two-legged series](/source/J.League_Championship) to determine the overall season winner and runners-up. [Júbilo Iwata](/source/J%C3%BAbilo_Iwata) in 2002, and [Yokohama F. Marinos](/source/Yokohama_F._Marinos) in 2003, won both "halves" of the respective seasons, thus eliminating the need for the playoff series. This was the part of the reason the league abolished the split-season system starting from 2005.

### European League Format & AFC Champions League (2005–2008)

Since the [2005 season](/source/2005_J.League_Division_1), J.League Division 1 consisted of 18 clubs (from 16 in 2004) and the season format became similar to the European club football. The number of relegated clubs also increased from 2 to 2.5, with the third-from-bottom club going into [Promotion / relegation Series](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=J.League_Promotion_/_relegation_Series&action=edit&redlink=1) with the third-placed J2 club. Since then, other than minor adjustments, the top flight has stayed consistent.

Japanese teams did not treat the Asian Champions League that seriously in the early years, in part due to the distances travelled and teams played. However, in the 2008 Champions League, three Japanese sides made the quarter-finals.[5]

However, in the recent years, with the inclusion of the [A-League](/source/A-League) in Eastern Asia, the introduction of [FIFA Club World Cup](/source/FIFA_Club_World_Cup), and increased marketability in the Asian continent, both the league and the clubs paid more attention to Asian competition. For example, [Kawasaki Frontale](/source/Kawasaki_Frontale) built up a notable fan base in [Hong Kong](/source/Hong_Kong), owing to their participation in the AFC Champions League during the [2007 season](/source/2007_AFC_Champions_League).[6] Continuous effort led to the success of [Urawa Red Diamonds](/source/Urawa_Red_Diamonds) in 2007 and [Gamba Osaka](/source/Gamba_Osaka) in 2008. Thanks to excellent league management and competitiveness in Asian competition, the AFC awarded J.League the highest league ranking and a total of four slots starting from the [2009 season](/source/2009_AFC_Champions_League). The league took this as an opportunity to sell TV broadcasting rights to foreign countries, especially in Asia.

Also starting the 2008 season, Emperor's Cup Winner was allowed to participate in the upcoming Champions League season, rather than waiting a whole year (i.e. [2005 Emperor's Cup](/source/2005_Emperor's_Cup) winner, [Tokyo Verdy](/source/Tokyo_Verdy), participated in the 2007 ACL season, instead of the 2006 season). In order to fix this one-year lag issue, the [2007 Emperor's Cup](/source/2007_Emperor's_Cup) winner, [Kashima Antlers](/source/Kashima_Antlers)' turn was waived. Nonetheless, Kashima Antlers ended up participating in the 2009 ACL season by winning the J.League title in the [2008 season](/source/2008_J.League_Division_1).

### Modern phase (2009–2014)

Three major changes were seen starting in the [2009 season](/source/2009_J.League_Division_1). First, starting that season, four clubs entered the AFC Champions League. Secondly, the number of relegation slots increased to three. Finally, the AFC Player slot was implemented starting this season. Each club will be allowed to have a total of four foreign players; however, one slot is reserved for a player that derives from an AFC country other than Japan. Also, as a requirement of being a member of the [Asian Football Confederation](/source/Asian_Football_Confederation), the J.League Club License regulations started in 2012 as one criterion of whether a club was allowed to stay in its division or to be promoted to a higher tier in the professional level league. No major changes happened to J.League Division 1 as the number of clubs stayed at 18.

### Three-stage system (2015–present)

From 2015 the J.League system changed to a three-stage system. The year is split into first and second league stages, followed by a third and final championship stage. The third stage is composed of stage one and two's total point champions and up to four other teams. These additional four teams consist of the following: Stage one and stage two's top point accumulator, and stage one and two's second placed points accumulator. These five teams then take part in a championship playoff stage to decide the winner of the league trophy.

In 2017, the single-table format returned due to a negative reaction from hardcore fans and a failure to appeal to casual fans.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

Promotion and relegation between J3 and the JFL began in the 2023 season.[7] The J.League will transition to a fall–spring calendar beginning in the 2026–27 season to align with European competitions and the Asian Champions League as well as avoid summer matches and conflicts with international tournaments. The change was approved on December 19, 2023, following a vote of the 60 J.League clubs.[8]

### Timeline

Year Important events # J clubs (J1/J2/J3) # ACL clubs Rel. slots (J1/J2) 1989 JFA forms a professional league assessment committee. 1990 The committee decides the criteria for professional clubs Fifteen to twenty clubs from Japan Soccer League applies for the professional league membership 1991 1992 The professional league, J.League is formed with the following 10 clubs: Gamba Osaka, JEF United Ichihara, Nagoya Grampus Eight, Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Urawa Red Diamonds, Verdy Kawasaki, Yokohama Flügels, and Yokohama Marinos (pre-existing from the old JSL First Division) Kashima Antlers (promoted from the old Second Division) Shimizu S-Pulse (newly formed, non-company club). Japan Soccer League becomes second-tier Japan Football League (former) J.League hosts the first domestic league cup competition with the ten clubs 1993 The J.League officially kicks off its first season 10 1994 Following clubs are promoted from Japan Football League: Júbilo Iwata and Bellmare Hiratsuka 12 1995 Following clubs are promoted from Japan Football League: Cerezo Osaka and Kashiwa Reysol The points system is introduced for the first time: a club receives 3 pts for any win, 1 pts for PK loss, and 0 pts for regulation or extra time loss. 14 1996 Following clubs are promoted from Japan Football League: Kyoto Purple Sanga and Avispa Fukuoka The league adopts single season format J.League average attendance hits the record low 10,131 16 1997 Following club is promoted from Japan Football League: Vissel Kobe The league goes back to split-season format The points system changes: a club receives 3 pts for the regulation win, 2 pts for extra-time win, 1 pt for PK win, and 0 pts for any loss. 17 1998 Following club is promoted from Japan Football League: Consadole Sapporo Yokohama Flügels announce that they will be dissolved into crosstown rivals Yokohama Marinos for the 1999 season The league announces the J.League Hundred Year Vision The league announces incorporation of two-division system for the 1999 season The league hosts J.League Promotion Tournament to decide to promote and/or relegate clubs. As a result, Consadole Sapporo becomes the first club be to relegated. 18 1999 The J.League adopts two divisions, as nine clubs from the former Japan Football League join Division 2, along with the relegated Consadole Sapporo: Montedio Yamagata, Vegalta Sendai, Omiya Ardija, Kawasaki Frontale, Ventforet Kofu, Sagan Tosu, FC Tokyo, Albirex Niigata, and Oita Trinita Yokohama Marinos merge with Yokohama Flügels to become Yokohama F. Marinos Penalty kick shootouts are abolished in both divisions; however, golden goal extra-time rules stayed The points system changes: a club receives 3 pts for a regulation win, 2 pts for an extra time win, and 1 pt for a tie Japan Football League (former) is also restructured, as it becomes the 3rd-tier Japan Football League. Note: To distinguish between the former and the current JFL, the new JFL is pronounced Nihon Football League in Japanese. 16/10 2 2000 16/11 2 2001 16/12 2 2002 16/12 2 2 2003 Extra time is abolished in Division 1 and traditional 3–1–0 points system is adopted 16/12 2 2004 No automatic relegation this season, as the top flight expands to 18 clubs in the following season Inception of the two-legged Promotion / relegation Series 16/12 2 0.5 2005 J.League Division 1 expands to 18 clubs J.League Division 1 adopts singles-season format 18/12 2 2.5 2006 Away goals rule is adopted in Yamazaki Nabisco Cup and Promotion / relegation Series The league forms J.League expansion committee The league reintroduces J.League Associate Membership 18/13 2 2.5 2007 J.League champion qualifies to the FIFA Club World Cup as the host for next two seasons Note: If a Japanese club wins the AFC Champions League, the host loses its right. Urawa Red Diamonds becomes the first Japanese club to win the AFC Champions League since its rebranding in 2002. 18/13 2 2.5 2008 Gamba Osaka wins the 2008 AFC Champions League, the second straight championship by a J.League club. 18/15 2 + 1 2.5 2009 Four clubs enter AFC Champions League. Implementation of a 4th foreign player slot, a.k.a. AFC player slot Promotion / relegation Series is eliminated and 16th-place club is now relegated by default. 18/18 4 3 2010 18/19 4 3 2011 J.League champion qualifies to the FIFA Club World Cup as the host for next two seasons again 18/20 4 3 2012 18/22 4 3/1 2013 18/22 4 3/0.5 2014 The J.League adopts three divisions, as the following clubs join Division 3: Gainare Tottori (relegated from J2 League). Blaublitz Akita, Fukushima United, Fujieda MYFC, Nagano Parceiro, FC Ryukyu, SC Sagamihara, YSCC Yokohama, FC Machida Zelvia, and Zweigen Kanazawa (pre-existing from Japan Football League). Grulla Morioka (promoted directly from Japanese Regional Leagues' Tohoku Soccer League). A J.League U-22 Selection is also included, composed of the best J1 and J2 youngsters to prepare them for the 2016 Olympics. The Japan Football League becomes the nationwide fourth tier, and first tier for amateur clubs. 18/22/12 4 3/1.5 2015 J1 League goes back to split-season format 18/22/13 3+1 3/1.5 2016 J.League champion qualifies to the FIFA Club World Cup as the host. Kashima Antlers became the first Asian team to reach the FIFA Club World Cup final. 18/22/16 3+1 3/1.5 2017 J1 League resumes single-season format 18/22/17 3+1 3/1 2018 Promotion / relegation Series is established again. J.League Cup changes to a 20-team format. 18/22/17 3+1 2.5/2 2019 18/22/18 2+2 2.5/2 2020 J.League is disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan, thus relegation slots have been reduced 18/22/19 2+2 0/0 2021 J1 League expands to 20 teams and J3 contracts to 15, both for the 2021 season only 20/22/15 3+1 → 4 4/4 2022 J1 League reduced to 18 teams and J3 expands to 18 for 2022 season only 18/22/18 3+1 2.5/2

Year Important events # J clubs (J1/J2/J3) # ACL Elite clubs # ACL Two clubs Rel. slots (J1/J2/J3) 2023 J3 expands to 20 for 2023 season relegation J3 to JFL will be introduced. J1 expand and J2 reduce to 20 teams each in J. League from 2024. 18/22/20 3+1 - 1/2/0–2 2024 J1 expand return and J2 reduced to 20 teams since 2021 and 2011 respectively from 2024 season on. The three divisions of the J. Leagues will consist of 20 teams for the 2024 season 20/20/20 2+1 1 3/3/0–2

## Stance in the Japanese football pyramid

Main article: [Japanese football league system](/source/Japanese_football_league_system)

2025 season Level(s) League(s)/Division(s) I J1 League 20 clubs II J2 League 20 clubs III J3 League 20 clubs

Since the inception of the second division in 1999, promotion and relegation follow a pattern similar to the European leagues, where the two bottom clubs of J1 and the top two clubs of J2 are guaranteed to move. From the 2004 to 2008 season, the third-placed J2 club entered the [Promotion / relegation Series](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=J.League_Promotion_/_relegation_Series&action=edit&redlink=1) against the sixteenth-placed J1 club and the winner had a right to play in the top flight in the following year. Starting on the 2009 season, the top three J2 clubs receives J1 promotion by default in place of three bottom J1 clubs. However, promotion or right to play the now-defunct pro/rel series relies on the J2 clubs meeting the requirements for J1 franchise status set by the league. This has generally not been a hindrance; in fact, no club has yet been denied promotion due to not meeting the J1 criteria.

Until the 2004 season, the J1 season was divided into [two halves](/source/Apertura_and_Clausura), with an annual [championship series](/source/J.League_Championship) involving the champions from each half (with the exception of the 1996 season). However, from the 2005 season, the single-season format is adopted as the top flight was expanded to eighteen clubs. Currently, 18 clubs compete in double round robin, home and away. Starting on the 2008 season, the top three clubs, along with the Emperor's Cup winner receive [ACL](/source/AFC_Champions_League) berths for the following season. If the [Emperor's Cup](/source/Emperor's_Cup) winner happens to be one of the top three J1 finishers, the 4th-place club receives the final berth. Starting on the 2009 season, the bottom three clubs are relegated to Division 2 at the end of the year. The two-halves format returned in 2015 but was abandoned again after 2016.

Starting in 2012, Division 2 established promotion playoffs for the clubs ranked 3rd to 6th, in a manner similar to the [EFL Championship](/source/EFL_Championship) in England, the [Serie B](/source/Serie_B) in Italy and the [Segunda División](/source/Segunda_Divisi%C3%B3n) in Spain. However, the semifinals would be only one leg and all matches that ended in draws would enable the higher ranked club in the table to advance or be promoted.

In 2013 the J3 League was established and while its champion was promoted automatically, the runner-up had to play a promotion/relegation series until 2017. From 2018 to 2023 two clubs was promoted automatically. From 2024 onwards, Division 3 established promotion playoffs for the clubs ranked 3rd to 6th respectively and winner playoff entered third team promotion.

From 2023 onwards, J. League introduce promotion and relegation between J3 and JFL.

The three divisions of the J. League will consist of 20 teams from 2024 season.

## Crest

		- Non sponsored logo

		- This logo was used from 2015 to 2018

		- Japanese version logo

## Clubs

### Membership requirements

The requirements for joining the J. League include items such as the stadium, management status and team management status. Regarding team management, not only the team itself that actually participates in the J. League game, but also the management obligation of the club youth team by the training organization (subordinate organization) are stipulated. From the 2013 season, the J. League club license system was launched and the system for judging whether or not to join the J.League and the division that can join was updated.

In addition since 2006, it has been decided to certify clubs that meet the criteria for joining the J. League after 2014, it will be called [J. League 100 Year Plan club status](/source/J._League_100_Year_Plan_club_status) instead.

### List of member clubs

Club categories and listing order based on club composition for 2024 season.[9] As for the home stadium, the stadium shown on the J. League corporate site as of 2024 is described.[10] Regarding the descriptions in multiple materials, based on the description of the club guide on the J. League official website, the stadium name was based on the naming rights (see the article of each stadium for the handling of naming rights)

Area Club Name (Name) Activity area/Hometown (Home stadium) League Year Joined Hokkaido Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo All roads centered on Sapporo, Hokkaido (Sapporo Dome, Toyohira ward, Sapporo) J1 1998 Tōhoku Vanraure Hachinohe Hachinohe, Aomori (Prifoods Stadium, Hachinohe) J3 2019 Iwate Grulla Morioka Morioka, Iwate (Iwagin Stadium, Morioka) J3 2014 Vegalta Sendai Sendai, Miyagi (Yurtec Stadium Sendai, Izumi Ward, Sendai) J2 1999 Blaublitz Akita Akita, Akita (Soyu Stadium, Akita) J2 2014 Montedio Yamagata Tendo, Yamagata (ND Soft Stadium, Yamagata) J2 1999 Fukushima United Fukushima, Fukushima (Toho Stadium, Fukushima) J3 2014 Iwaki FC Iwaki, Fukushima (J-Village Stadium, Iwaki Iwaki Greenfield Stadium, Iwaki) J2 2022 Kantō Kashima Antlers Kashima, Ibaraki (Kashima Soccer Stadium, Kashima) J1 1993 Mito HollyHock Mito, Ibaraki (K's denki Stadium Mito, Mito) J2 2000 Tochigi SC Utsunomiya, Tochigi (Kanseki Stadium Tochigi, Utsunomiya) J2 2009 Thespa Gunma Maebashi, Gunma (Shoda Shoyu Stadium Gunma, Maebashi) J2 2005 Urawa Red Diamonds Saitama, Saitama (Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama) J1 1991 Omiya Ardija Ōmiya, Saitama (NACK5 Stadium Ōmiya, Ōmiya) J3 1999 JEF United Chiba Chiba, Chiba (Fukuda Denshi Arena, Chiba) J2 1991 Kashiwa Reysol Kashiwa, Chiba (Sankyo Frontier Kashiwa Stadium, Kashiwa) J1 1995 FC Tokyo Chōfu, Tokyo (Ajinomoto Stadium, Chōfu) J1 1999 Tokyo Verdy Inagi, Tokyo (Ajinomoto Stadium, Chōfu) J1 1991 Machida Zelvia Machida, Tokyo (Machida GION Stadium, Machida) J1 2012 Kawasaki Frontale Kawasaki, Kanagawa (Kawasaki Todoroki Stadium, Kawasaki) J1 1991 Yokohama F. Marinos Yokohama, Kanagawa (Nissan Stadium, Yokohama) J1 1991 Yokohama FC Yokohama, Kanagawa (Mitsuzawa Stadium, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama) J2 2001 YSCC Yokohama Yokohama, Kanagawa (Mitsuzawa Stadium, Kanagawa-ku, Yokohama) J2 2014 Shonan Bellmare Hiratsuka, Kanagawa (Lemon Gas Stadium Hiratsuka, Hiratsuka) J1 1994 SC Sagamihara Sagamihara, Kanagawa (Sagamihara Gion Stadium, Sagamihara) J3 2014 Ventforet Kofu Kōfu, Yamanashi (JIT Recycle Ink Stadium, Kōfu) J2 1999 Hokuriku and Shin'etsu ↓ Hokushinetsu Matsumoto Yamaga Matsumoto, Nagano (Sunpro Alwin, Matsumoto) J3 2012 Nagano Parceiro Nagano, Nagano (Nagano U Stadium, Nagano) J3 2014 Albirex Niigata Niigata, Niigata (Denka Big Swan Stadium, Niigata) J1 1999 Kataller Toyama Toyama, Toyama (Toyama Stadium, Toyama) J3 2009 Zweigen Kanazawa Kanazawa, Ishikawa (Ishikawa Athletics Stadium, Kanazawa) J3 2014 Tōkai Shimizu S-Pulse Shimizu-ku, Shizuoka, Shizuoka (IAI Stadium Nihondaira, Shimizu) J2 1991 Jubilo Iwata Iwata, Shizuoka (Yamaha Stadium, Iwata) J1 1994 Fujieda MYFC Fujieda, Shizuoka (Fujieda Soccer Stadium, Fujieda) J2 2014 Azul Claro Numazu Numazu, Shizuoka (Shizuoka Ashitaka Athletic Stadium, Numazu) J3 2017 Nagoya Grampus Nagoya, Aichi (Paloma Mizuho Stadium, Nagoya Toyota Stadium, Toyota) J1 1991 FC Gifu Gifu, Gifu (Gifu Nagaragawa Stadium, Gifu) J3 2008 Kansai Kyoto Sanga Kyoto, Kyoto (Sanga Stadium by Kyocera, Kameoka) J1 1996 Gamba Osaka Suita, Osaka (Panasonic Stadium Suita, Suita) J1 1991 Cerezo Osaka Osaka, Osaka (Yanmar Stadium Nagai, Osaka Yodoko Sakura Stadium, Nagai Park, Higashisumiyoshi ward, Osaka) J1 1995 FC Osaka Higashiōsaka, Osaka (J-Green Sakai Main Field, Hattori Ryokuchi Park, Toyonaka, Osaka Hanazono Rugby Stadium, Higashiōsaka) J3 2023 Vissel Kobe Kobe, Hyōgo (Noevir Stadium Kobe, Kobe) J1 1997 Nara Club Nara, Nara (Rohto Field Nara, Nara) J3 2023 Chūgoku Gainare Tottori Tottori, Tottori (Axis Bird Stadium, Tottori) J3 2011 Fagiano Okayama Okayama, Okayama (City Light Stadium, Okayama) J2 2009 Sanfrecce Hiroshima Hiroshima, Hiroshima (Edion Stadium Hiroshima, Asaminami Ward) J1 1991 Renofa Yamaguchi Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi (Ishin Me-Life Stadium, Yamaguchi) J2 2015 Shikoku Kamatamare Sanuki Takamatsu, Kagawa (Pikara Stadium, Marugame) J3 2014 Tokushima Vortis Tokushima, Tokushima (Pocarisweat Stadium, Naruto) J2 2005 Ehime FC Matsuyama, Ehime (Ningineer Stadium, Matsuyama) J2 2006 FC Imabari Imabari, Ehime (ASICS Satoyama Stadium, Imabari) J3 2020 Kyushu Avispa Fukuoka Fukuoka, Fukuoka (Best Denki Stadium, Hakata ward) J1 1996 Giravanz Kitakyushu Kitakyushu, Fukuoka (Mikuni World Stadium Kitakyushu, Kokurakita Ward) J3 2010 Sagan Tosu Tosu, Saga (Ekimae Real Estate Stadium, Tosu) J1 1999 V-Varen Nagasaki Nagasaki, Nagasaki (Transcosmos Stadium Nagasaki, Isahaya) J2 2013 Roasso Kumamoto Kumamoto, Kumamoto (Egao Kenko Stadium, Higashi Ward) J2 2008 Oita Trinita Oita, Oita (Resonac Dome Oita, Oita) J2 1999 Tegevajaro Miyazaki Miyazaki, Miyazaki (Unilever Stadium Shintomi, Shintomi) J3 2021 Kagoshima United Kagoshima, Kagoshima (Shiranami Stadium, Kagoshima) J2 2016 FC Ryukyu Okinawa (Tapic Kenso Hiyagon Stadium, Okinawa) J3 2014

### Clubs with J3 licenses

Clubs that have not joined the J. League but have been granted a J3 license for the 2023 season (including the J. League 100 year concept club).

Area Club Name (Name) Activity area/Hometown (Home stadium) League Year Approval Year Withdrawal Tohoku ReinMeer Aomori Aomori, Aomori Prefecture (New Aomori Prefecture General Sports Park) JFL 2019 2023 Tokai Veertien Mie Kuwana, Mie Prefecture (Toin Stadium, Yokkaichi Central Greenery Stadium) 2019 Shikoku Kochi United Kōchi, Kōchi Prefecture (Kochi Haruno Athletic Stadium) 2019 Kyushu Verspah Oita Ōita, Ōita Prefecture (Ōita Sports Park) 2019

### J.League 100 Year Plan Club

The home stadium is at the time of approval of the 100-year plan club and at the time of J3 admission examination in 2020 Based on the official J. League release.[11][12]

Area Club Name (Name) Activity area/Hometown (Home stadium) League Year Approval Kantō Tochigi City FC Tochigi, Tochigi (City Football Station, Tochigi) Kantō Soccer League Div. 1 2014 Vonds Ichihara Ichihara, Chiba (Ichihara Seaside Stadium, Ichihara) 2020 Nankatsu SC Katsushika, Tokyo (Okudo Sports Center Park, Katsushika) Tokyo 23 FC Special wards of Tokyo (Edogawa Stadium, Edogawa) 2022 Criacao Shinjuku Shinjuku, Tokyo (AGF Field, Tokyo) JFL 2021

### Former clubs that were regular members of the J.League

Club Name (Name) Activity area/Hometown (Home stadium) Year Yokohama Flügels Yokohama, Kanagawa (Mitsuzawa Stadium, Yokohama) 1991–1998

### Clubs that were former J.League associate members, associate members and Centennial Clubs

Club Name (Name) Activity area/Hometown (Home stadium) Year Tosu Futures Tosu, Saga (Ekimae Real Estate Stadium, Tosu) 1994–1996 Hamamatsu FC Hamamatsu, Shizuoka (Honda Miyakoda Soccer Stadium, Hamana Ward) 1997 Tonan Maebashi Maebashi, Gunma (Maebashi Athletic Stadium, Maebashi) 2013–2019 Tokyo Musashino City FC Musashino, Tokyo (Musashino Municipal Athletic Stadium, Musashino) 2016–2020 Suzuka Point Getters Suzuka, Mie (Mie Suzuka Sports Garden, Mie) 2021–2022 Cobaltore Onagawa Onagawa, Miyagi Onagawa Town Comprehensive Athletic Park, Onagawa 2022 Okinawa SV Tomigusuku and Uruma, Okinawa (various in Okinawa) 2022–2023

## Champions

See also: [List of Japanese football champions](/source/List_of_Japanese_football_champions), [List of winners of J2 League and predecessors](/source/List_of_winners_of_J2_League_and_predecessors), and [List of winners of J3 League and predecessors](/source/List_of_winners_of_J3_League_and_predecessors)

Year J1 Champions J2 Champions J3 Champions 1993 Verdy Kawasaki (Old JFL) (Old JFL Div. 2) 1994 Verdy Kawasaki No national third tier 1995 Yokohama Marinos 1996 Kashima Antlers 1997 Júbilo Iwata 1998 Kashima Antlers 1999 Júbilo Iwata Kawasaki Frontale (New JFL) 2000 Kashima Antlers Consadole Sapporo 2001 Kashima Antlers Kyoto Purple Sanga 2002 Júbilo Iwata Oita Trinita 2003 Yokohama F. Marinos Albirex Niigata 2004 Yokohama F. Marinos Kawasaki Frontale 2005 Gamba Osaka Kyoto Purple Sanga 2006 Urawa Red Diamonds Yokohama FC 2007 Kashima Antlers Consadole Sapporo 2008 Kashima Antlers Sanfrecce Hiroshima 2009 Kashima Antlers Vegalta Sendai 2010 Nagoya Grampus Kashiwa Reysol 2011 Kashiwa Reysol FC Tokyo 2012 Sanfrecce Hiroshima Ventforet Kofu 2013 Sanfrecce Hiroshima Gamba Osaka 2014 Gamba Osaka Shonan Bellmare Zweigen Kanazawa 2015 Sanfrecce Hiroshima Omiya Ardija Renofa Yamaguchi 2016 Kashima Antlers Consadole Sapporo Oita Trinita 2017 Kawasaki Frontale Shonan Bellmare Blaublitz Akita 2018 Kawasaki Frontale Matsumoto Yamaga FC Ryukyu 2019 Yokohama F. Marinos Kashiwa Reysol Giravanz Kitakyushu 2020 Kawasaki Frontale Tokushima Vortis Blaublitz Akita 2021 Kawasaki Frontale Júbilo Iwata Roasso Kumamoto 2022 Yokohama F. Marinos Albirex Niigata Iwaki FC 2023 Vissel Kobe Machida Zelvia Ehime FC 2024 Vissel Kobe Shimizu S-Pulse Omiya Ardija 2025 Kashima Antlers Mito HollyHock Tochigi City

## Promotion and relegation

### Changes in the number of clubs promotion and relegation system

J1 Entry playoffs have been introduced from 2018, 2019 and 2022 respectively. Relegation from J1 to J2 introduced from 1999, J2 to J3 introduced from 2013 and J3 to JFL introduced from 2023. J1 Promotion playoff introduce from 2012 to 2017, reintroduced in 2023 onwards and J2 Promotion playoff to be introduce start from 2024.

In 1998, the J1 entry decision match was held. From 1999, a replacement system was introduced with the transition to a two-part system of J1 and J2. Since 2012, a replacement system has been introduced between J2 and the lower league ([Japan Football League](/source/Japan_Football_League) (JFL) in 2012, J3 after the 2013 postseason).

- Until the introduction of the J.League club license system in 2012, if a J2 club that obtained the right to be promoted to J1 through the examination by the J.League did not meet J1 standards, the promotion to J1 would be revoked, and the relegation to J2 from the 16th place in J1 would also be revoked. could have been used, but there have been no cases in which it has actually been applied.

- If a club that has received a loan from the official match stable holding fund cannot repay it by the repayment date, the club belonging to J1 will be demoted to J2 even if it is in the order to remain in J1, and the club belonging to J2 will be promoted to J1. However, the promotion will be postponed. It is unknown whether promotion will be postponed even if it is a rank that can be promoted to J2 in the clubs belonging to J3. However, at the end of the 2021 season, the only cases in which this system could have been applied in the past were Oita in 2013.

- After the 2012 postseason (entry in 2013), in order to enter the J1, J2 and J3 leagues, it is necessary to obtain a license for that league or higher under the club license system.

- If the number of matches that have been completed does not reach 75% of the total number of matches scheduled for the year in the J1/J2/J3 league, or if the number of matches in the category to which one belongs falls short of 50% of the total number of matches scheduled for that year. If there is a club that does not exist, the tournament will be disqualified and no promotion or relegation will take place.

Year Teams J1 JFL Remarks Number JFL Relegation J League Entry 1993 10 10 No Relegation Hiratsuka Iwata Old JFL 1994 12 12 C Osaka Kashiwa 1995 14 14 Fukuoka Kyoto 1996 16 16 Kobe 1997 17 17 Sapporo

Year Teams J1 J2 JFL Remarks Number J2 Relegation J1 Promotion Number JFL Relegation J League Entry 1998 18 18 Sapporo — 9 clubs from old JFL[nb 1] J1 Entry playoff introduced 1999 26 16 Urawa Red Diamonds Hiratsuka Kawasaki Frontale FC Tokyo 10 No Relegation Mito HollyHock 2 teams automatically relegation from J1 to J2 2000 27 Kyoto Kawasaki Sapporo Urawa 11 Yokohama FC 2001 28 Fukuoka C Osaka Kyoto Sendai 12 — 2002 Sanfrecce Hiroshima Sapporo Oita Trinita Cerazo Osaka 2003 Sendai Kyoto Albirex Niigata Hiroshima 2004 None Kawasaki Omiya Tokushima Vortis Thespa Gunma J1-J2 Entry Playoffs to be introduced 2005 30 18 Kashiwa† Tokyo Verdy Kobe Kyoto Fukuoka Kofu† Ehime FC Automatic replacement 2 clubs to J2 + J1/J2 playoff match 2006 31 Fukuoka† C Osaka Kyoto Yokohama FC Kashiwa Kobe† 13 — 2007 Hiroshima† Kofu Yokohama FC Sapporo Tokyo Verdy Kyoto† Roasso Kumamoto FC Gifu 2008 33 Tokyo Verdy Sapporo Hiroshima Montedio Yamagata 15 Tochigi SC Kataller Toyama Fagiano Okayama 2009 36 Kashiwa Oita JEF United Chiba Sendai C Osaka Shonan 18 Giravanz Kitakyushu Automatic replacement 3 clubs to J2 2010 37 FC Tokyo Kyoto Shonan Kashiwa Kofu Fukuoka 19 Gainare Tottori 2011 38 Kofu Fukuoka Yamagata FC Tokyo Sagan Tosu Sapporo 20 FC Machida Zelvia Matsumoto Yamaga FC 2012 40 Kobe Gamba Osaka Sapporo Kofu Shonan Oita 22 Machida V-Varen Nagasaki J1 promotion playoff start from 2013

Year Teams J1 J2 J3 JFL Remarks Number J2 Relegation J1 Promotion Number J3 Relegation J2 Promotion Number JFL Relegation J League Entry 2013 40 18 Shonan Iwata Oita G Osaka Kobe Tokushima 22 Tottori — Sanuki 10 clubs from New JFL[nb 2] Sanuki is the result of the J2-JFL exchange match, 10 clubs enter J3 from JFL, that club automatically promotion from JFL to J2 from 2014 2014 51 Omiya C Osaka Tokushima Shonan Matsumoto Yamagata Toyama Kanazawa 12 No Relegation Yamaguchi Introduction of J2-J3 replacement games 2015 52 Matsumoto Shimizu Yamagata Omiya Iwata Fukuoka Oita† Tochigi Yamaguchi Machida† 13 Kagoshima None 2016 53 Nagoya Shonan Fukuoka Sapporo Shimizu C Osaka Kitakyushu Oita 16 Numazu 2017 54 Kofu Niigata Omiya Shonan Nagasaki Nagoya Gunma Tochigi 17 — J2-J3 replacement games has been abolished in 2017 2018 Kashiwa Nagasaki Matsumoto Oita Kumamoto Sanuki Ryukyu Kagoshima Hachinohe J1 entry playoff start for 2018 2019 55 Matsumoto Iwata Kashiwa Yokohama FC Kagoshima Gifu Kitakyushu Gunma 18 Imabari None 2020 56 — Tokushima Fukuoka — Akita Sagamihara Miyazaki No relegation and J1 entry playoffs from 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic. 2021 57 20 Tokushima Iwata Sendai Yokohama FC Iwata Kyoto Sagamihara Ehime Kitakyushu Matsumoto Kumamoto Iwate 15 Iwaki No J1 entry playoffs for 2021 2022 58 18 Shimizu Iwata Niigata Yokohama FC Ryukyu Iwate Iwaki Fujieda 18 Nara FC Osaka None 2023 60 Yokohama FC Machida Zelvia Iwata Tokyo Verdy Omiya Kanazawa Ehime Kagoshima United 20 — J1 promotion playoff return for 2023 onwards 2024 20 Iwata Sapporo Tosu Shimizu Yokohama FC Okayama 20 Tochigi SC Kagoshima Gunma Omiya Imabari Toyama Yokohama S&CC† Iwate Tochigi C Kochi† J2 promotion playoff introduced from 2024 onwards 2025 Yokohama FC Shonan Niigata Mito Nagasaki Chiba Kumamoto Yamaguchi Ehime Tochigi C Hachinohe Miyazaki Numazu† Shiga† 2026–27

- Those with "†" are promotions and promotions based on the result of the shunting match. Remaining in the shunting and entry playoffs is not reflected.

- The number of J3 teams includes the number of 2014 and 2015 J.League Under 22 teams and the number of U-23 teams from 2016 to 2020.

### About the future

The J.League has announced a policy of setting a maximum of 20 teams for the J3 League and 60 teams for the total number of regular member teams including J1 and J2. According to interviews with people involved in the J.League, it has become clear that J1, J2 and J3 are proposing to have 20 teams each from 2024 at the earliest.

In conjunction with the increase in the number of teams, this is a new growth strategy that revises the ratio of equal distribution money and in particular, the policy of grading allocation centered on the top clubs of J1. It is said that the aim is to improve the value of the J. League by increasing the provision of high quality matches. If there are 20 teams in each class, in 2023, only the lowest (18th) club will be demoted from J1 to J2 and conversely, 3 clubs will be promoted from J2 to J1. It is said that there is.

After that, on 20 December 2022, based on the J League's two new growth strategies ("60 clubs shine in their respective regions" and "top tier shines as national (global) content"), From the 2024 season, J1, J2 and J3 will have 20 teams each and J. League cup games will officially be renewed to a knockout (tournament) format in which all 60 clubs from J1, J2 and J3 will participate was announced in.

## Branding

The first official J.League Anthem - "**J'S THEME**" debuted in 1993 and was composed by [Michiya Haruhata](/source/Michiya_Haruhata). It was used during league broadcasts and as a prelude to kickoff at stadiums.

J.League and J.League clubs make the most out of their logos / emblems and [mascots](/source/List_of_J.League_mascots) for [branding](/source/Brand) and [marketing](/source/Marketing).

## Awards

Main article: [List of J.League awards](/source/List_of_J.League_awards)

- [Manager of the Year Award](/source/J.League_Manager_of_the_Year)

- [Most Valuable Player Award](/source/J.League_Most_Valuable_Player)

- [Top Scorer Award](/source/J.League_Top_Scorer)

- [Rookie of the Year Award](/source/J.League_Rookie_of_the_Year)

- [Best XI Award](/source/J.League_Best_XI)

## See also

- [Asia portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Asia)
- [Japan portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Japan)
- [Sports portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Sports)
- [Association football portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Association_football)

- [Japan Football Association](/source/Japan_Football_Association) (JFA)

**League**

- [Japanese association football league system](/source/Japanese_association_football_league_system) - J.League - [J1 League](/source/J1_League) - [J2 League](/source/J2_League) - [J3 League](/source/J3_League) - [Japan Football League](/source/Japan_Football_League) - [Japanese Regional Leagues](/source/Japanese_Regional_Leagues)

**Cup**

- [Fujifilm Super Cup](/source/Japanese_Super_Cup)

- [Emperor's Cup](/source/Emperor's_Cup)

- [J.League YBC Levain Cup](/source/J.League_Cup)

## See also

- [Japan Soccer League](/source/Japan_Soccer_League)

## Notes

1. **[^](#cite_ref-13)** 9 clubs: Vegalta Sendai, Montedio Yamagata, Omiya Ardija, FC Tokyo, Kawasaki Frontale, Ventforet Kofu, Albirex Niigata, Sagan Tosu and Oita Trinita.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** 9 clubs from the New JFL: [Akita](/source/Blaublitz_Akita), [Fukushima](/source/Fukushima_United_FC), Machida, [Sagamihara](/source/SC_Sagamihara), [YS Yokohama](/source/YSCC_Yokohama), [Nagano](/source/AC_Nagano_Parceiro), [Kanazawa](/source/Zweigen_Kanazawa), [Fujieda](/source/Fujieda_MYFC), [Ryukyu](/source/FC_Ryukyu) and one club from the [Japanese Regional Leagues](/source/Japanese_Regional_Leagues), [Morioka](/source/Iwate_Grulla_Morioka) (part of [Tohoku Soccer League](/source/Tohoku_Soccer_League)).

## References

1. **[^](#cite_ref-1)** [サッカー用語集](http://www.jfa.jp/documents/faq/terminology.html) [Football glossary]. *JFA* (in Japanese). [Japan Football Association](/source/Japan_Football_Association). January 25, 2017. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190213030539/http://www.jfa.jp/documents/faq/terminology.html) from the original on February 13, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2019. 「日本プロサッカーリーグ」の読みは、「にほんプロサッカーリーグ」。

1. **[^](#cite_ref-2)** ["Football finds a home in Japan"](https://web.archive.org/web/20131213043252/http://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/tournament=107/edition=4735/news/newsid=101705.html). FIFA.com. December 12, 2005. Archived from [the original](https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/archive/tournament=107/edition=4735/news/newsid=101705.html) on December 13, 2013. Retrieved December 22, 2013.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-3)** ["When Saturday Comes - How Japan created a successful league"](https://web.archive.org/web/20160809201118/http://www.wsc.co.uk/wsc-daily/997-July-2010/5577-how-japan-created-a-successful-league). Wsc.co.uk. July 18, 2010. Archived from [the original](http://www.wsc.co.uk/wsc-daily/997-July-2010/5577-how-japan-created-a-successful-league) on August 9, 2016. Retrieved December 22, 2013.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-4)** ["German Bundesliga, Japanese Football Share Mutually Beneficial Relationship"](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1681906-the-german-bundesligas-importance-to-japanese-football). *[Bleacher Report](/source/Bleacher_Report)*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210130032112/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1681906-the-german-bundesligas-importance-to-japanese-football) from the original on 2021-01-30. Retrieved 2020-09-19.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-5)** John Duerden (August 11, 2008). ["Asian Debate: Is Japan Becoming Asia's Leader?"](http://www.goal.com/en/news/14/asia/2008/08/11/813727/asian-debate-is-japan-becoming-asias-leader). Goal.com. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140121030930/http://www.goal.com/en/news/14/asia/2008/08/11/813727/asian-debate-is-japan-becoming-asias-leader) from the original on January 21, 2014. Retrieved August 19, 2012.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-6)** [川崎Ｆが香港でブレーク中、生中継で火](http://www.nikkansports.com/soccer/news/p-sc-tp0-20080308-332738.html) (in Japanese). NikkanSports. March 8, 2008. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20080312102039/http://www.nikkansports.com/soccer/news/p-sc-tp0-20080308-332738.html) from the original on March 12, 2008. Retrieved March 8, 2008.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-7)** ["Promotion and Relegation between J3 and JFL from 2023 Season"](https://aboutj.jleague.jp/corporate/en/release/promotion-and-relegation-between-j3-and-jfl-from-2023-season/) (Press release). J.League. January 6, 2023. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230106095846/https://aboutj.jleague.jp/corporate/en/release/promotion-and-relegation-between-j3-and-jfl-from-2023-season/) from the original on January 6, 2023. Retrieved December 20, 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-8)** ["J. League board approves August start to season from 2026"](https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2023/12/20/soccer/j-league/j-league-calendar-change/). *[The Japan Times](/source/The_Japan_Times)*. Kyodo News. December 20, 2023. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20231220075237/https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2023/12/20/soccer/j-league/j-league-calendar-change/) from the original on December 20, 2023. Retrieved December 20, 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-9)** ["2023 Jリーグ クラブ編成"](https://www.jleague.jp/news/article/24180/) (Press release). 日本プロサッカーリーグ. 2022-12-20. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20221220225822/https://www.jleague.jp/news/article/24180/) from the original on 2022-12-20. Retrieved 2022-12-21.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-10)** ["スタジアム情報一覧"](https://aboutj.jleague.jp/corporate/stadium/list/). *日本プロサッカーリーグ（Jリーグ）組織・経営情報*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20230606221038/https://aboutj.jleague.jp/corporate/stadium/list/) from the original on 2023-06-06. Retrieved 2023-07-26.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-11)** ["Jリーグ百年構想クラブ 審査結果について"](https://www.jleague.jp/release/post-57826/) (Press release). 日本プロサッカーリーグ. 2019-02-19. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210512023334/https://www.jleague.jp/release/post-57826/) from the original on 2021-05-12. Retrieved 2020-11-17.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-12)** ["Jリーグ入会審査 (J3) 結果について"](https://www.jleague.jp/release/post-65160/) (Press release). 日本プロサッカーリーグ. 2019-11-17. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20201117083555/https://www.jleague.jp/release/post-65160/) from the original on 2020-11-17. Retrieved 2020-11-17.

## External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [J. League](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:J._League).

- [Official website](http://www.jleague.co/)

v t e J.League Champions (J1 League · J2 League · J3 League) · Records and statistics · Historical goals Seasons J1 League seasons (1993–present) 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 (100) 2026–27 J2 League seasons (1999–present) 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 (100) 2026–27 J3 League seasons (2014–present) 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 (100) 2026–27 Clubs J1 League Avispa Fukuoka Cerezo Osaka Fagiano Okayama Gamba Osaka JEF United Chiba Kashima Antlers Kashiwa Reysol Kawasaki Frontale Kyoto Sanga Machida Zelvia Mito HollyHock Nagoya Grampus Sanfrecce Hiroshima Shimizu S-Pulse FC Tokyo Tokyo Verdy Urawa Red Diamonds V-Varen Nagasaki Vissel Kobe Yokohama F. Marinos J2 League Albirex Niigata Blaublitz Akita Fujieda MYFC Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo FC Imabari Iwaki FC Júbilo Iwata Kataller Toyama Montedio Yamagata Oita Trinita RB Omiya Ardija Sagan Tosu Shonan Bellmare Tegevajaro Miyazaki Tochigi City FC Tokushima Vortis Vanraure Hachinohe Vegalta Sendai Ventforet Kofu Yokohama FC J3 League Ehime FC Fukushima United Gainare Tottori FC Gifu Giravanz Kitakyushu Kagoshima United Kamatamare Sanuki Kochi United Matsumoto Yamaga Nagano Parceiro Nara Club FC Osaka Reilac Shiga Renofa Yamaguchi Roasso Kumamoto FC Ryukyu SC Sagamihara Thespa Gunma Tochigi SC Zweigen Kanazawa Former Azul Claro Numazu Cerezo Osaka U-23 Gamba Osaka U-23 Iwate Grulla Morioka J.League U-22 Selection FC Tokyo U-23 Yokohama Flügels YSCC Yokohama Players Designated special players (DSP) Foreign J.League players Managers J.League managers current Referees J.League referees Awards (Monthly MVP · MVP Award · Best XI · Top Scorer · Rookie of the Year · Manager of the Year)

v t e Football in Japan Records Trophies and awards Venues History National association Japan Football Association (JFA) National teams (2026) Men Japan results footballers managers B U-23 footballers managers U-20 U-17 Futsal U-23 U-20 Beach soccer FIFAe Women Japan results footballers managers B U-23 results footballers managers U-20 U-17 Futsal U-23 U-20 Beach soccer Leagues (2026) Men J.League J1 League J2 League J3 League Japan Football League (JFL) Regional Leagues Prince Takamado Cup U-18 Premier League U-18 Prince Leagues Women WE League Nadeshiko League Division 1 Division 2 Cups (2026) Men Emperor's Cup YBC Levain Cup Fujifilm Super Cup Shakaijin Cup Club Teams Cup Intercollegiate Cup All Japan High School Cup Inter-High Club Youth Cup Women Empress's Cup WE League Cup Intercollegiate International cups Men Kirin Cup Soccer (Senior) Kirin Challenge Cup (Senior / U-23) SBS Cup (U-18) Ibaraki Next Generation Cup (U-18) International Youth Soccer in Niigata (U-17) U-16 International Dream Cup Women MS&AD Cup (Senior) JENESYS U-17 Women’s Football Memorial Cup Culture Historical matches Japan v Iraq (1994 FIFA World Cup qualification) Anime and Manga Aoashi Blue Lock Captain Tsubasa Days Giant Killing Inazuma Eleven Rivalries National teams Japan–South Korea Australia–Japan China–Japan North Korea–Japan Football in Japan by prefecture Tokyo Osaka by populated place Competitions

v t e Sports leagues in Japan Baseball Nippon Professional Baseball Central League Pacific League Basketball B.League Premier One Next Dancing D.League Football J.League J1 League J2 League J3 League Japan Football League Japanese Regional Leagues Japanese Prefectural Leagues [ja] Gridiron football X-League Handball Japan Handball League Road bicycle racing Japan Cycle League [ja] Roller derby Tokyo Roller Girls Okinawa Roller Derby Rugby Japan Rugby League One Table tennis T.League Volleyball SV.League V.League Men's West Conference Men's East Conference Women's Professional sports Asia League Ice Hockey J.League Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) X-League Women's sports Football WE League Nadeshiko League Ice Hockey Women's Japan Ice Hockey League Softball Japan Diamond Softball League Defunct Baseball Football

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