Yokohama F. Marinos missed out on a place in next season's Asian Champions League despite beating Sagan Tosu 1-0 on Saturday, as Urawa Reds claimed the qualification spot by finishing third on the final day of the J. League season.
At the other end of the table, Vissel Kobe and 2005 champions Gamba Osaka joined Consadole Sapporo in relegation to the second division, with Albirex Niigata sensationally escaping the drop with a 4-1 win over Consadole.
Sanfrecce Hiroshima wrapped up the title last weekend ahead of runnerup Vegalta Sendai, but Sagan went into the final day's play third in the table and in prime position to grab an ACL spot in their debut campaign in the first division.