The league began in March 6 and ended in November 27.
For this year, the division was contested by 16 teams following the folding of Yokohama Flügels and the relegation of Consadole Sapporo to the newly formed Division 2.
In a year dominated by Shizuoka Prefecture, Júbilo Iwata won the 1st stage with neighbours Shimizu S-Pulse winning the 2nd stage.
Iwata won the J.League Division 1 title for the after triumphing on penalty kicks in the Suntory Championship.
The following sixteen clubs participated in J.League Division 1 during 1999 season.