JHL Women (Japan) 2024/25

League H, officially known as the Japan Handball League (JHL) Women's Division, stands as the premier professional handball competition in Japan. The JHL Women's Division was established in 1976 by the Japan Handball Association (JHA) and has evolved into a closed system that prioritizes financial sustainability over promotion and relegation. This structural stability was reinforced following a 2024 restructuring, ensuring the top tier remains distinct from lower divisions. The league currently features 11 teams, including clubs such as Aranmare Toyama W, HC Nagoya Women, and Hiroshima Maple Reds Women.

The competitive format begins with a double round-robin regular season. The top five teams advance to the postseason, where the first-place side receives a bye directly to the semifinals. The second and third-place finishers meet in a semifinal, while the fourth and fifth teams contest a quarterfinal; the winner of that match progresses to the second semifinal. The final is decided in a single match at a neutral venue, such as the Nippon Budokan. If regular time ends in a draw, the game proceeds to overtime and, if necessary, a 7-meter shootout.

Kumamoto Beaust Pindys holds the record for the most titles in the division’s history with 17 wins. The current champion is Kagawa Bank GiraSol, who claimed their first title in the 2024–25 season. The JHL title is recognized as the primary domestic honor, separate from the All-Japan Women's Handball Championship, which is a knockout cup involving teams from various levels, including universities and regional leagues.