Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) is the highest level of professional baseball in Japan. Established in 1950, it consists of two leagues: the Central League and the Pacific League. Each league has six teams, and the season typically runs from late March to October, culminating in the Japan Series to determine the champion. NPB features a unique style of play and has produced many talented players, some of whom have successfully transitioned to Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States. The league is known for its passionate fan base and vibrant stadium atmosphere, making it a significant part of Japanese culture.