Recently, Global Positioning System (GPS) have been used as a method to analyze workload in rugby football games and training sessions. But there are few studies of Japan elite rugby. PURPOSE: To investigate the physical demands of Japan rugby top league match-play using GPS, and to compare these demands between positional groups for a more effective training plan. METHODS: GPS data (sampling rate; 15Hz) were collected from 15 Japan rugby elite players from same team during 14 Japan Rugby Top League competition games over one season. Players were categorized into one of four positional groups, FR (front row forwards, i.e. prop and hooker), 2&3R (2nd and 3rd row forwards, i.e. locks, flanker, andNo.8), SH (scrum-half), and BKs (backs, i.e. fly-half, three-quarters, and full-back). Instantaneous raw velocity data obtained from the GPS units was exported to a customized spreadsheet which provided estimations of speed-based variables (0-6km/h, i.e. Standing & Walking, 6-12km/h, i.e. Jogging, 12-18km/h, i.e. Cruising & Striding, 18-20km/h, i.e. High-intensity running, <20km/h, i.e. Sprinting, and total running distance). Analysis of variance and post hoc test were used to compare differences in physical performance variables between positional groups. RESULTS: Total distances covered during match-play by FR, 2&3R, SH, and BKs were 5603.9±252.4m, 5689.1±284.3m, 7001.0±245.8m, 6054.1±857.6m, respectively. There were significant differences between positional groups, and then SH was significant more covered total distance than other positional groups (p<.05). Standing & Walking distances (and ratio for the total distance, same hereinafter) covered by FR, 2&3R, SH, and BKs were 2209m (39.4%), 2009m (35.3%), 2091m (29.9%), and 2550m (42.1%), respectively. Jogging distances were 2207m (39.8%), 2039m (35.8%), 2031m (28.8%), and 1742m (29.0%). Cruising & Striding distances were 967m (17.3%), 1237m (21.8%), 1930m (27.6%),and 1128m (18.6%). High-intensity running distances were 118m (2.0%), 215m (3.8%), 425m (6.1%), and 230m (3.8%). Sprinting distances were 117m (2.1%), 141m (2.5%), 430m (6.1%), and 371m (6.1%). High-intensity running and sprinting distances covered by SH and BKs were significant greater than them covered by FR and 2&3R (p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: Positional differences exist for running demands as speed-based variables. These results demonstrate the physical demands of elite players in Japan rugby top league.