Kyoto Sanga returned to the first division at the first attempt on Saturday after a 0-0 draw away to Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the second leg of a J. League promotion/relegation playoff.
Kyoto Sanga players celebrate their promotion to the top division after Saturday's game in Hiroshima.
KYODO PHOTOHiroshima thrice hit the woodwork at Big Arch, but was unable to penetrate Kyoto's defense and the second-division side held on to its 2-1 lead from the first leg to replace Sanfrecce in the top flight.
"It's been a really tough season and it's hard trying to come through the playoff but we have a good team and wanted to do everything we could to get promoted," said Kyoto captain Ryuzo Morioka.