The 88th Emperor's Cup began on September 13, 2008 and ended on January 1, 2009 with the final at National Stadium in Tokyo. As the champion, Gamba Osaka participated in 2009 AFC Champions League.

Calendar

Participants

J.League Division 1

J.League Division 2

Japan Football League

Prime Minister Cup University football tournament Winner

Prefectures

Matches

All matches are Japan Standard Time (UTC+9)

First round

Second round

Third round

The 15 J2 teams plus one JFL representative (Tochigi SC) entered at this round.

Fourth round

The 18 J1 teams will enter at this round.

Fifth round

Quarter finals

Semi finals

Final