Football clubs in Japan primarily compete in the J1 League, the top tier of professional football in the country. Established in 1993, the league has grown to include 18 teams, showcasing a mix of traditional clubs and newer franchises. Popular clubs like Yokohama F. Marinos and Gamba Osaka have rich histories and passionate fan bases. In addition to the J1 League, Japan has a robust football culture with lower divisions, such as the J2 League and J3 League. The Emperor's Cup is a prestigious knockout tournament that allows clubs from various levels to compete, promoting the sport across the nation.