Tusi Pisi parted ways with Suntory Sungoliath after seven years on Thursday and joined Bristol Rugby in England on a two-year deal.
The move, which will see him play for the English Premiership hopefuls, also ends his time with the Japan-based Sunwolves once the current Super Rugby season comes to a close.
The two-time Samoan Rugby World Cup star has been the franchise's best player in its inaugural campaign, but the lure of playing in England — where brothers Ken and George ply their trade for Northampton Saints — has proved too much.
"I'm delighted to be joining Bristol Rugby and look forward to playing club rugby in England for the first time during my career," the 33-year-old said in a statement on Bristol's web page.
"I have spoken to the Samoan contingent at Bristol and have heard great things so I'm excited to get involved and help the team attain success.
"I've enjoyed my time in Japan and the experience has helped me develop as a player. I still have much I want to achieve and I hope I can do that with Bristol."
Pisi is not the first person to make the move from Suntory to Bristol this year. Mark Bakewell left Japan in February to take up the role of forwards coach at the RFU Championship team.