Williams' move to the Land of the Rising Sun has been speculated for some time now, but the Sharks put an end to the rumours with a social media post on Monday afternoon.
"Grant Williams will depart at the end of the season as he heads to Japan," it read.
"Wishing you all the best on your next chapter."
As per usual, the unknown club will announce the signing of Williams in due course. The 28-cap Bok is another blockbuster addition to the plethora of superstars now plying their trade in Japan League One.
The 29-year-old Williams has arguably emerged as the leading Bok scrumhalf under coach Rassie Erasmus, with his accurate kicking, fast distribution and truly exceptional pace on display every match.
The Paarl native played in 11 of the 14 Test matches last season despite Erasmus' extensive player rotation strategy.
The Sharks will perhaps miss the nippy No.9 the most. Williams has played his entire professional career with the Durban franchise since joining in 2017. They will now look to Jaden Hendrikse and Bradley Davids to fill the void.
Excitement is building in Gqeberha as the countdown hits 60 days before the Springboks launch their 2026 campaign against a star-studded Barbarians side coached by former All Blacks boss Scott Robertson.
Double World Cup winner Lukhanyo Am has not given up hope of returning to the Springbok setup, using his move to Japan as a springboard with another World Cup firmly in sight.
Ospreys winger Luke Morgan has defended his actions following the controversial tackle that left Sharks centre Ethan Hooker injured.
Sharks head coach JP Pietersen expressed deep frustration and concern after Springbok utility back Ethan Hooker suffered a serious shoulder injury in the Sharks' 21-17 defeat to the Ospreys in Swansea.
