Ayumu Goromaru hopes his move to Toulon will pave the way for more Japanese rugby players to play in Europe.
The 30-year-old full-back has signed a one-year contract with the French heavyweight after a lacklustre season in Super Rugby with the Reds.
Goromaro played a key role in Japan's impressive World Cup campaign last year, which included a stunning victory over South Africa in one of the sport's biggest upsets.
"Until now, it may have been that France was a place where Japanese guys longed to play," said Goromaru.
"But by my going, I hope others will make it a goal to play there and at some point it will become a natural destination."
Goromaru, who is currently nursing a shoulder injury, will have his work cut out at the club, which boasts a number of top internationals including South Africa wing Bryan Habana, Australian back Matt Giteau, and New Zealand centre Ma'a Nonu.
"It's a team that has assembled top players. I'll aim to take in as much as I can and become a better player," he added.
Goromaru, who had earlier hinted at retirement in February, added that he wanted to challenge himself with another stint away from his homeland.
"It would be sad if I were to retire without going to France," he said. "I wanted to have another challenge abroad. When I do that perhaps I'll have different feelings."