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Former Cherry and Whites captain Tom Savage will transition to the Cherry Blossom country at the end of the season after signing for Suntory Sungoliath.
Gloucester Lock is one of the club's oldest players to have made their debut in the 2011-12 season.
He was named captain at the age of 24 by coach Nigel Davies in 2013 and has played 200 games with Gloucester.
Taking the decision to embark on a new chapter of his career in the Japanese Top League, where Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty are expected to play later in the year, Savage explained the difficulty of leaving Kingsholm.
"I am very happy to join Suntory Goliath after a good eight years at Gloucester Rugby," said the 29-year-old. "After meeting them and talking with them, I hope to add something to what is already a successful and professional environment.
"Suntory's facilities are extremely appreciated by everyone I've talked to who knows the club. My wife Lauren and I are really looking forward to immersing ourselves completely in a new culture and in this exciting stage of my career and our lives.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all Gloucester Rugby players, staff and supporters who have made my time at the club so incredible. Having played as many times as I did and having the honor of leading the team over the past eight seasons have been a real privilege.
"My decision to leave was the hardest I've had to date, but I felt like I could do something new by playing for Suntory Sungoliath in Japan, an opportunity that is not not given to many.
"I'm going to give everything as usual for the rest of the season and I hope to finish my stay in Gloucester on a high performance. Thank you, Sav.
Savage will join the defending Premier League champions, including Wallabies internationals Matt Giteau and Sean McMahon.
Gloucester rugby director David Humphreys understood Savage's gesture, but explained how he planned to keep the second row at Kingsholm throughout his career.
"Sav is the kind of player and personality that every club wants on their team. His attitude and commitment to all aspects of his training, preparation and play can not be criticized.
"I think that he really could have been a man from a club. But this is a great opportunity, not only in the sense of rugby, but also in terms of discovering a new culture in a different country.
"I know I speak on behalf of all club members when I wish him the best of luck in this exciting new adventure."
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