It was originally planned to have 8 clubs, including seven former JFL clubs and Yokogawa Electric, promoted from Kantō Soccer League, one of nine Japanese Regional Leagues.
But it eventually became nine-club structure by accepting Yokohama FC, which was established by supporters of defunct Yokohama Flügels, as an associate member as an extralegal measures.
won the championship but under the conditions of their associate membership were not eligible to promotion and had to stay in JFL for the next year.
Source: Japan Football LeagueNotes:† The club was created by the supporters of disbanded J.
In addition, FC Kyoken and Shizuoka Sangyo University were included by JFA and College FA recommendations.