Great Britain have missed out on promotion to the Fed Cup World Group as Johanna Konta and Heather Watson suffered a decisive doubles defeat to Japan on Sunday.
The top two British singles players lost 3-6 6-3 6-3 to Miya Kato and Makoto Ninomiya in the final rubber, meaning a fourth promotion playoff defeat in seven years.
Konta and Watson recovered from being broken in the latter's opening service game to secure the first set 6-3 but lost the second by the same scoreline despite a brief rally after falling 5-0 behind.
After Konta saved three break points in the fifth game of the third set, Japan took the initiative with a break at the next available opportunity and saw out the tie for victory.
Earlier, Watson lost 7-6(7) 6-4 to Kurumi Nara after Konta beat Indian Wells champion Naomi Osaka 6-3 6-3.
Britain, who have not competed in the World Group since 1993, will take part again in Europe/Africa Group I next year.
Giuseppe Labellarte
