The Central League and Pacific League are both scheduled to begin their 2009 seasons on April 3, according to the Nippon Professional Baseball executive committee.
It will be the first time in six years that both leagues have started on the same day, while the PL will be starting a season in April after eight straight years of beginning in March.
Game 1 of the All-Star series will be held at Sapporo Dome on July 24 and Game 2 at the Hiroshima Carp's new stadium, now under construction, the following day.
The Japan Series is scheduled to start Oct. 31 at the home of the PL playoff winner.