Chiba's Takumi Wada scored an equalizer two minutes from time but Renatinho netted the winner in stoppage time when he converted a pass from Brazilian compatriot Juninho.

With 58 points, Kawasaki is a point clear of reigning champions Kashima Antlers, who won 2-0 over Montedio Yamagata, with three games remaining.

Chiba was relegated to the second division along with Oita Trinita.

Shinzo Koroki scored in the 21st minute and Marquinhos converted a penalty for his 13th league goal of the season as Kashima kept pace.

Gamba Osaka has 54 points and remained in contention for the title after a pair of goals from Pedro Junior helped the former Asian club champions to a 4-1 win over Kyoto Sanga.

Shimizu S-Pulse was handed a stunning 5-0 defeat by relegation-threatened Kashiwa Reysol and is eight points off the lead.

Edmilson scored the lone goal as Urawa Reds defeated FC Tokyo 1-0 while Igor Burzanovic gave Nagoya Grampus a 1-0 win over 10-man Vissel Kobe.

Hideo Oshima scored both goals as Albirex Niigata won 2-0 at Jubilo Iwata. Relegated Oita pulled off a surprise 2-1 win over Yokohama F Marinos thanks to goals from Fernandinho and Hiroshi Kiyotake.