Japan’s fast-paced online world boasts 102.5 million users, making digital security more crucial than ever. While you’re soaking up everything Japan has to offer, don’t overlook the importance of securing your digital footprint. Whether you’re enjoying the bustling streets of Tokyo, public Wi-Fi networks can be a gateway for hackers, and geo-restrictions might prevent you from accessing your favorite content.
To keep your online activity private and unrestricted during your stay, the best VPN for Japan is essential. Based on extensive testing and personal travel experience, I’ve put together a list of the best VPNs to keep you secure and connected. Before diving into the recommendations, let’s explore the key features that make these VPNs stand out for travelers.
- Top Recommendation: ExpressVPN is highlighted as the best VPN Japan, offering robust security features, impressive speeds, and reliable performance for streaming, browsing, and uploading.
- Security and Privacy: The blog emphasizes the importance of choosing a VPN with top-tier security and privacy features to protect users from surveillance and cyber threats.
- Performance: High-speed performance is crucial for VPN users in Japan, ensuring smooth streaming, quick downloads, and seamless browsing.
- Server Availability: A VPN with a broad network of servers in Japan is essential for maintaining fast and reliable connections, as well as accessing local content securely.
Quick Overview – Best VPN for Japan
When finding the best VPN for Japan, looking for a service that prioritizes user satisfaction and delivers top-notch performance is essential. To help make your search easier, I’ve compiled a list of the top 6 VPNs that meet these requirements:
Why Do You Need a VPN in Japan?
To effectively circumvent geo-restrictions in Japan, a top-tier VPN is essential. Many online platforms limit access based on location, but with a VPN, you can overcome these barriers. Without one, you’ll often encounter error messages, preventing you from accessing a wide range of content.
Likewise, if you want to access a Japanese streaming platform outside the country, you will get the following geo-restriction error:
I face this error while accessing a Japanese streaming platform outside the country.
VPNs are essential for circumventing regional restrictions, allowing you to change your IP address to access content from different locations. For example, you can use a VPN to obtain a Japanese IP address to stream local content or an IP from another country for accessing international services.
ExpressVPN stands out as an excellent option for Japan. It offers reliable Japanese IP addresses, robust encryption, and advanced security features to safeguard your online identity. Whether you’re browsing securely or streaming content, this VPN effectively combats ISP throttling and ensures seamless access to local and international content.
What to Look for in a VPN for Japan?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Strong Encryption | Ensures your data remains secure and private, even under strict government monitoring. |
| Japanese Servers | Provides fast and reliable connections within Japan, ensuring access to local content and services. |
| Stealth Technology | Avoids detection by government or ISP monitoring, allowing unrestricted internet access. |
| No-Logs Policy | Guarantees that your online activities are not recorded, maintaining your privacy. |
| Fast Connection Speeds | Enables smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing without lag or interruptions. |
| Multi-Device Support | Allows simultaneous connections on multiple devices, ideal for families or users with multiple gadgets. |
| Customer Support | Offers 24/7 assistance to help resolve any issues or answer questions promptly. |
| Cross-Platform Compatibility | Works seamlessly across various devices and operating systems, from Windows to iOS and Android. |
| Advanced Features | Includes unique options like multi-hop connections, split tunneling, and dedicated IP addresses. |
| Leak Protection | Test for potential leaks, such as DNS and WebRTC, to guarantee your VPN’s effectiveness. |
| Trial & Money-Back Guarantee | Provides a risk-free way to test the VPN’s features and performance. |
6 Best VPNs for Japan in 2024 [In-Depth Analysis]
To find the best VPN for Japan, I tested several service providers based on their features and performance and shortlisted the ones with high-quality results. Here is a detailed analysis of theBest VPN for Japan with strong security features:
Surfshark
Surfshark – Budget-friendly VPN for Japan
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN for Japan, particularly for those seeking a balance between cost and performance. It’s not just its affordability that makes Surfshark stand out; it’s also the impressive features of the VPN that cater to security-conscious users in Japan.
Surfshark boasts an extensive server network, with 3200+ servers in 100 countries with 1 server location in Japan. This global reach is particularly beneficial for users in Japan who wish to circumvent geo-restrictions and access a wide range of international content.
Despite its affordable price, Surfshark delivers impressive unblocking capabilities. After extensive testing, I have found that it can effectively circumvent geographical restrictions, providing access to virtually any blocked website around the globe.
By using Surfshark’s servers, you can effortlessly enjoy unrestricted access to various Japanese content. This includes popular channels like Toei Channel, Channel Neco, Jidaigeki Senmon Channel, Fuji TV One, and Mondo TV outside the country.
The unblocking capabilities of the VPN make it the budget-friendly best VPN to use in Japan.
I also thoroughly tested Surfshark and discovered its effectiveness in unblocking popular international content, including Netflix, Channel 4, ITV, NBC, HBO US, Disney+, and others. I used Surfshark for Hulu in Japan and watched Grimsburg without facing any buffering.
Moreover, this VPN offers highly impressive speeds. On the Surfshark speed test in Japan, I recorded a download speed of 81.32 Mbps and an upload speed of 76.12 Mbps on the 100 Mbps internet connection.
Surfshark’s servers were able to circumvent geo-restrictions within seconds.
Surfshark doesn’t cut corners despite its budget-friendly tag. It offers AES-256-GCM encryption, an unbreakable standard, and secure protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec. Additionally, features like CleanWeb help block ads, trackers, and malware, enhancing your browsing experience.
One thing I particularly love about this top VPN to Japan is that it offers unlimited simultaneous connections. Moreover, Surfshark’s user-friendly interface and compatibility with various devices, including iOS, Linux, Android, Windows, and Mac, make it a versatile choice for multiple users.
Surfshark offers the most pocket-friendly package among all the Japanese VPNs and promises top-notch security. But if you want more insights into the VPNs, read my Surfshark review in Japan.
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ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Japan
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Japan. Renowned for its robust server network, this VPN offers ultra-secure and highly anonymous servers, including Tokyo (Shibuya) and Yokohama locations.
ExpressVPN extends its reach to 105 countries. This extensive server network allowed me to access Japan’s geo-restricted streaming platforms. This global reach is particularly beneficial for users in Japan who wish to circumvent geo-restrictions and access a wide range of international content.
Moreover, this VPN is renowned for its powerful unblocking capabilities, making it an excellent choice for accessing content that might otherwise be restricted due to geo-blocks or censorship. ExpressVPN reliably unblocks various streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and more in Japan.
I had no issues unblocking Japanese Netflix abroad, making it the best VPN for Japan Netflix.
Also, you can easily unlock and enjoy a wide range of Japanese content like AbemaTV, U-NEXT, and dTV. Whether you’re interested in streaming services, local websites, or accessing region-locked apps and games.
Speed is crucial for any VPN user; this VPN doesn’t disappoint. During my ExpressVPN speed test in Japan, the results were outstanding – with download speeds of 89.42 Mbps and upload speeds of 84.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection. This makes it one of the best VPNs for streaming in Japan, ensuring a buffer-free experience.
ExpressVPN’s Japanese VPN servers delivered speeds worthy of smooth streaming.
Compatibility is where ExpressVPN truly excels. Setting up ExpressVPN on Apple TV in Japan was a breeze. Its compatibility extends across various devices, including Android TV and Roku devices, enhancing my streaming experience and ensuring seamless protection across all my devices.
Focusing on security, this VPN offers multiple advanced features. ExpressVPN’s privacy policy and TrustedServer technology have been validated by KPMG in a recent independent audit, confirming their no-log policy.
This feature, coupled with advanced security protocols such as a Kill Switch, OpenVPN protocol, Parental Control, Ad-blocker, and DNS leak protection, assures me that my online activities are private.
The ExpressVPN free trial in Japan is a fantastic offer. It’s a great way to experience the service without risk, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. This trial period allowed me to thoroughly test its features, reassuring me of its capabilities and value.
Concluding my experience, I highly recommend checking out the comprehensive ExpressVPN review in Japan. It dives deeper into its features and performance, clearly showing why it’s the best VPN for Japan.
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Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access – Best VPN for Torrenting in Japan
Private Internet Access is the best VPN for torrenting in Japan, especially for users who prioritize torrenting. PIA stands out in the VPN market with its strong commitment to privacy and robust network infrastructure. This makes it ideal for those seeking a secure and efficient torrenting experience in Japan.
PIA boasts an impressive server network, with 35000+ P2P-optimized servers in 84 countries, ensuring reliable and fast connections for users in Japan. That’s also why it’s one of the best torrenting VPNs in Japan in the industry.
Speaking of servers, PIA offers around 189 servers in Japan, which is sufficient to stream all local Japanese channels. I could access local stations such as Eisei Gekijo, Channel Neco, BS12 TwellV, and 4K QVC without any issues during testing.
PIA servers made watching my favorite shows and movies on Netflix US in Japan easier.
You can rely on PIA for torrenting in Japan due to its efficient P2P protocol, ensuring speed and security. It’s a crucial tool, especially under Japan’s strict copyright laws, providing the safety I need for sharing and downloading files seamlessly.
On my PIA speed test in Japan, the servers provided me with a download speed of 65.78 Mbps and an upload speed of 57.16 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
PIA servers provided adequate speeds for streaming and browsing.
Security is a key aspect of PIA, and it delivers advanced features like 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, split Tunneling, and leak protection that can secure your online data from leaking in Japan. Speaking of which, it performed exceptionally well in my DNS leak test.
As far as compatibility is concerned, this VPN Japan supports macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, and other OS. I faced no issues setting up PIA on Kodi in Japan as well as on Firestick, Android TV, Linux, Play Station, Xbox, Roku, and more.
Still, if you want more information, you can read my PIA review in Japan to learn more about this service.
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NordVPN
NordVPN – Large Server Network VPN for Japan
NordVPN has a large server network VPN for Japan. This extensive coverage ensures reliable and fast connections, making it an ideal VPN for both streaming and security-conscious users in Japan.
NordVPN’s large server network of 6000+ servers in 61 countries, including more than 130 servers in Tokyo, is particularly beneficial for accessing a wide range of geo-restricted content whether you’re looking to stream international platforms in Japan.
Aside from powerful protection, it offers excellent unblocking performance, too. With so many servers, NordVPN can help you also access channels like Netflix, YouTube TV, ESPN+, Disney+, Hulu, and Hotstar. Not just these platforms, I also used NordVPN for HBO Max in Japan, and it worked smoothly.
It also offers local servers in Japan. With its Japanese servers in Tokyo, I unblocked various local TV stations such as Mnet Japan, BS Animax, BS Tsuri Vision, BS Sky PerfecTV!, and BS Asahi 4K. Here you can see how I’ve unblocked U-Next Japan using NordVPN’s Japanese servers:
Using this best VPN for Japan server, I could stream my favorite shows while traveling.
With NordVPN’s fast speeds, you can watch a ton of local content without buffering. Speaking of the NordVPN speed test in Japan, it consistently delivered a fast download speed of 83.82 Mbps and an upload speed of 44.64 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
I experienced only a 17% drop in its servers.
Like any other best VPN in Japan, it also supports all popular operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and more. I didn’t encounter any issues while installing NordVPN on PlayStation in Japan, as well as on Firestick, Android TVs, and multiple other devices.
Security is a significant concern, and NordVPN addresses this with features like AES 256-bit encryption, Double VPN, CyberSec, a kill switch, leak protection, and a strict no-logs policy. These features ensure that your online activities in Japan are secure and private.
It also comes with a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re hesitant about purchasing this VPN, you can always go for the NordVPN free trial in Japan.
To learn more about NordVPN Japan, check out my NordVPN review in Japan.
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CyberGhost
CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN in Japan
CyberGhost is the most user-friendly VPN in Japan. Its intuitive interface makes it a go-to choice for beginners and advanced users. With its apps, users can circumvent any form of geo-block and surveillance in Japan.
CyberGhost’s strength lies in its extensive server network, boasting 11651+ servers in 100 countries, including 109 servers strategically located in Tokyo. This vast network ensures that users in Japan can enjoy a seamless online experience, whether they’re streaming or browsing.
CyberGhost excels in providing high-speed servers, which are crucial for uninterrupted streaming. You can effortlessly access many geo-restricted streaming platforms like CBC, Disney+, YouTube TV, and Hulu. I used CyberGhost for Netflix in Japan, and it worked exceptionally well, thanks to its optimized servers.
Its Japanese servers can help you access streaming content that is purely restricted to the audience in Japan. During testing, I could easily access Star Channel 4K, Nippon Eiga + Jidaigeki 4K, Sports Live+, EntaMētele, and Gaora Sports. Also, I was able to unblock Hulu using CyberGhost’s US server:
The reason for suggesting it as the best VPN Japan is because it made my The Watchful Eye” streaming possible in Japan by unblocking Hulu!
Apart from providing an extensive server network, CyberGhost is also remarkably fast. During the CyberGhost speed test in Japan, the VPN demonstrated excellent performance. I achieved a download speed of 75.12 Mbps and an upload speed of 39.48 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection.
Enjoy decent streaming speed using CyberGhost servers.
CyberGhost is super secure, too. Since the service is based in Romania, it offers a complete no-log policy to protect your online activities. Moreover, CyberGhost comes equipped with 256-bit encryption, OpenVPN protocol, leak protection, and much more.
CyberGhost also offers Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Kodi, and Firestick apps. It is even compatible with routers and other devices that don’t natively support VPNs.
For more information about this VPN, check out the CyberGhost review in Japan.
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IPVanish
IPVanish – Fastest VPN for Japan
IPVanish is one of the fastest VPNs in Japan, particularly for those prioritizing speed and performance. With its impressive server network and exceptional speeds, IPVanish is a top-tier VPN choice in the Japanese market.
IPVanish is a go-to option in Japan because of its blend of speed and server availability. It hosts 2200+ servers in 75+ locations with 20+ servers in Japan. It is perfect for anyone accessing blocked websites from within and outside Japan.
As per my testing with streaming platforms, the VPN works smoothly. I connected to IPVanish for Netflix in Japan and watched Fool Me Once. Throughout streaming, I did not face any issues with loading.
Also, the VPN works with Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Hotstar, Zee5, SonyLIV, ESPN+, Voot, NBC Live, Foxtel, Fox Sports, and more. Here you can see how I’ve unblocked Pluto TV in Japan using IPVanish’s US server:
I could access plenty of US streaming sites using IPVanish servers from this best Japan VPN.
With its 20 servers located in Tokyo, Japan, there is no local Japanese TV station that you can not unblock. I easily accessed stations such as Nittere G+, Takarazuka Sky Stage, Sukachan 2 4K, QVC, and Green Channel using its local servers.
IPVanish’s ability to provide lightning-fast speeds is crucial for streaming high-definition content without lag or buffering. On the IPVanish speed test in Japan, it touched phenomenal speeds. I received a download speed of 84.55 Mbps and an upload speed of 42.15 Mbps on a 100 Mbps connection.
No significant speed drop was recorded during IPVanish speed testing.
If I talk about IPVanish’s security features, you’ll be glad to know that it offers a no-logs policy, Ransomware protection, 256-bit encryption, leak protection, and more.
Aside from being feature-rich, this VPN Japan is compatible with all major operating systems like macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, and more. Moreover, you can easily install IPVanish on Firestick in Japan as well as on Android TV, Roku, and routers.
The IPVanish review in Japan provides a detailed examination of its features, including its high-speed performance and security measures. This review is crucial for gauging IPVanish’s effectiveness in enhancing your experience.
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Methodology: How to Choose the Best VPN for Japan in 2024
Every VPN on my list undergoes rigorous functionality, speed, and security testing. My comprehensive methodology, detailed further in the article, allows you to replicate the tests at home or understand the criteria behind my rankings. I consider the number of VPN servers in Japan to be a crucial factor.
- Functionality and Server Availability: I ensure each VPN has a significant number of servers and capabilities in Japan.
- Privacy and Security: I evaluate how well each VPN masks IP addresses, logs information, and meets encryption standards (preferably 256-bit AES).
- Speed: Tested on different devices using speedtest.net, measuring upload, download speeds, and latency, aiming for less than a 40% variance.
- Security Features: I check for IP address leaks, encryption methods, and essential features like kill switches and dynamic IP addresses.
- Provider Policies: I review data-logging policies, privacy jurisdiction, and customer support effectiveness.
- Subscription Costs: I analyze pricing, free trials, money-back guarantees, and additional subscription perks.
- Advanced Features: I look for split tunneling, multihop encryption, and app quality, ensuring high standards in usability and performance.
My methodology ensures a thorough assessment, highlighting the most reliable and secure VPNs for use in Japan. To compare my top options quickly, check out the table below.
Best VPNs for Japan Compared
Here’s a quick comparison of the best VPN for Japan with Japanese servers for secure browsing:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Worldwide Servers | Thousands of servers in 105 countries | 3200+ servers in 100 countries | 6000+ servers in 61 countries | 2200+ servers in 75+ locations | 11651+ servers in 100 countries | 35000+ servers in 84 countries |
| Servers in Japan | 4 server locations | 1 server location | 130+ servers | 20+ servers | 109 servers | 189 servers |
| Avg. Speed | 89.42 Mbps | 81.32 Mbps | 83.82 Mbps | 84.55 Mbps | 75.47 Mbps | 65.78 Mbps |
| Multi-Logins | 8 | Unlimited | 10 | Unlimited | 7 | Unlimited |
| Unblocks | HBO Max, Netflix, Toei Channel,Mnet Japan, Nittere G+ and more | HBO Max, Netflix, Toei Channel,Mnet Japan, Nittere G+ and more | HBO Max, Netflix, Toei Channel,Mnet Japan, Nittere G+ and more | HBO Max, Netflix, Toei Channel,Mnet Japan, Nittere G+ and more | HBO Max, Netflix, Toei Channel,Mnet Japan, Nittere G+ and more | HBO Max, Netflix, Toei Channel,Mnet Japan, Nittere G+ and more |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers |
| Popular sites unblocked | 95% | 90% | 89% | 70% | 79% | 69% |
| Pricing | JPY 945.87/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) | JPY 353.11/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) | JPY 565.82/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) | JPY 424.01/mo (US$ 2.99/mo) | JPY 287.87/mo (US$ 2.03/mo) | JPY 299.22/mo (US$ 2.11/mo) |
How Do I Set Up a Japan VPN?
Using VPNs is super simple, even for people who have no prior experience. Therefore, if you are unfamiliar with VPNs, I have provided a quick guide to help you with the configuration. Here are the steps to set up a Japan VPN:
- Download and Install a VPN: Choose a VPN with Japan servers, like ExpressVPN. Go to their website, download, and install the app on your device.
- Connect to a Server in Japan: Open the VPN app, find a server in Japan, and connect. This gives you a Japanese IP address, which is essential for accessing content restricted to Japan.
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: With the VPN connected, you can now access content like Netflix Japan, which was previously blocked outside of Japan.
How Fast are the Top VPNs in Japan?
The top VPNs in Japan exhibit impressive speeds, making them ideal for various online activities. These high-speed VPNs ensure that users in Japan can enjoy fast, reliable, and secure internet connections, whether for streaming local content, accessing global services, or maintaining privacy online. Here are the charts showing the download and upload speeds of the top VPNs in Japan:
Download Speeds of Top VPNs in Japan
Upload Speeds of Top VPNs in Japan
Can I Use a Free VPN for Japan?
Yes, but from my experience, it’s not the best choice. Most free VPNs I’ve tried often don’t work as expected. They come with downsides like inadequate security and encryption, risking my data. Free VPNs also tend to collect and sell user data to third parties, and their speeds are usually unsatisfactory.
However, the question remains: what is the best free VPN for Japan? I’ve found that Proton VPN and TunnelBear are among the best free VPNs for Japan and offer free servers in Japan and other countries, which can be helpful.
However, avoiding using a free VPN with Japan server is strongly recommended for regular use. If one must use a free VPN or a service that does not require financial investment, opting for a premium one with a free plan is a better choice. ExpressVPN’s free trial, for instance, allows users to test their services for seven days at no cost.
Online Censorship in Japan
In Japan, the internet is remarkably open, allowing access to various online services, apps, social media, blogs, and content sites. However, strict laws against downloading unlicensed content pose significant risks for P2P file-sharing or torrenting. Penalties can include up to two years in prison for downloading unlicensed material like music, movies, anime, manga, or texts.
The best Japanese VPN is crucial for torrenting to conceal your IP address and data from content owners, websites, and ISPs. Japan VPN with advanced encryption for privacy also follow no-logs policies, ensuring complete anonymity and peace of mind while browsing.
Torrenting in Japan
In Japan, residents face some of the world’s strictest anti-torrenting laws. Breaching these regulations can lead to hefty fines of up to 10 million Yen and a potential two-year prison sentence.
Discussions on Reddit and Quora suggest that not everyone downloading torrents in Japan faces these maximum penalties. However, given the legal risks, exercising caution is always wise. The 2013 incident, where 27 individuals were arrested for uploading copyrighted content like manga, video games, anime, and music videos without authorization, is a stark reminder of the consequences.
For those whose internet usage in Japan involves downloading torrents, it is essential to refer to guides on the best VPN for torrenting in Japan. A VPN can safeguard online activities and provide protection, ensuring safe and private internet browsing.
Can You Use a VPN Legally in Japan?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in Japan, but it doesn’t make you immune to prosecution. If you use a VPN to engage in illegal activities, such as accessing the dark web to purchase prohibited materials, you can still be prosecuted by Japanese authorities if caught.
Using a VPN is like having a lock on your front door. It keeps unwanted intruders out and provides privacy, but it doesn’t give you the right to break the law inside your home. You can still be held accountable if you use your locked home for illegal activities. Similarly, while a VPN offers online privacy and security, it doesn’t exempt you from legal consequences if you engage in unlawful activities.
I hope your answer to are VPNs legal in Japan is cleared. Let’s move to the next heading.
Common Pitfalls When Choosing a VPN for Japan
I’ve covered what to look for in a VPN for Japan, but let’s also consider what to avoid. Be wary of services that claim to be free. True free VPNs are rare, and those that exist often have significant limitations. Remember, if the product is free, you might be the product.
Also, avoid VPNs without a solid track record. While new providers can be intriguing, I prefer reliable services with proven histories and third-party audits. Always check reviews, forums, and other sources to ensure the VPN is trustworthy.
How to Access US Streaming Sites from Japan
To access US streaming sites from Japan, using the best VPN to unblock Japanese streaming services is essential. A VPN allows you to connect to servers in the US, circumventing geo-restrictions and providing access to services like Netflix, Hulu, and more as if you were in the United States. However, you must use the best VPN services for this.
Best VPN for Netflix Japan:
To watch Netflix Japan from outside the country, ExpressVPN and Surfshark are best VPN for privacy in Japan due to their fast speeds and reliability. These VPNs can easily circumvent geo-restrictions and provide access to the Japanese Netflix library.
How to Watch Netflix Japan with a VPN
It’s simple to watch Netflix Japan with a VPN. Many top VPNs for Japan are also excellent for accessing Netflix. Just connect to a server in Japan through your VPN and load up Netflix, and you’ll be able to watch titles exclusive to the Japanese library.
Best VPNs that Unblock Hulu in Japan:
ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN are highly effective for unblocking Hulu in Japan. They offer robust security features and a wide range of servers to ensure smooth streaming of Hulu’s content without any restrictions.
How to Watch Hulu in Japan with a VPN
Watching Hulu in Japan is easy with a VPN. Many of the best VPNs for Japan are also great for accessing Hulu. Simply connect to a Japanese server via your VPN, open Hulu, and you’ll have access to titles exclusive to the Japanese library.
Comprehensive VPN Recommendations for Japan By Redditors
When choosing a VPN for use in Japan, whether for general browsing, streaming, or gaming, several options stand out based on Reddit recommendations:
Top VPN Choices:
- NordVPN and ExpressVPN are consistently praised for their speed, reliability, and ability to circumvent geo-restrictions. Both have servers in Japan, making them ideal for accessing international content and services.
- Private Internet Access (PIA) is another strong contender, known for its affordability and effective performance with Japanese servers.
Gaming and Gacha Games:
- VPNGate via OpenVPN is highly recommended for playing geo-restricted games like Japanese and Korean gacha games. It offers free access, flexibility in server choice, and no bandwidth limits, making it ideal for bypassing IP blocks.
- ProtonVPN has become less reliable for gaming due to recent changes restricting free users from choosing specific servers. Alternatives like Mudfish and ExitLag are better suited for gaming due to their performance.
Key Considerations:
- Free VPNs offer cost-saving benefits but may have limitations in speed, server choice, and privacy. Split tunneling is suggested for gamers to optimize performance.
- For greater control and privacy, consider setting up a personal VPN through a VPS.
In summary, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and PIA are top choices for overall use in Japan, while VPNGate via OpenVPN is best for gaming. Consider your specific needs and the trade-offs between free and paid services when making your decision.
How to Reduce Ping with VPN in Japan
Here’s how you can reduce pings in Japan with a VPN service:
- Select a VPN server that is geographically close to your server. This reduces the travel distance for data, resulting in lower ping.
- Opt for VPNs known for their high-speed connections. Premium VPN services like ExpressVPN often have optimized servers for gaming.
- Ensure your internet connection is stable. A wired connection is usually more reliable than Wi-Fi.
- Limit other internet activities to prevent bandwidth congestion.
Tips for Selecting the Best VPN for Your Travel Needs
Selecting the right VPN for your trip to Japan can be overwhelming, but by focusing on your key priorities, you can find a VPN that perfectly meets your needs. Here are some important factors to consider:
- Speed: Ensure the VPN offers fast and reliable connections. This is crucial for streaming, browsing, and uploading photos or videos without interruptions. Look for VPNs with high-speed servers, particularly those with servers in Japan.
- Security: A strong emphasis on security is vital. Choose a VPN with robust encryption (256-bit AES), a no-logs policy, and features like a kill switch to protect your data and privacy.
- Ease of Use: The VPN should be user-friendly, with intuitive device apps. It should offer easy setup and simple navigation, ensuring you can connect to a secure server quickly, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
- Price: Consider your budget and compare the pricing plans of different VPNs. Look for VPNs that offer good value for money, with features that justify the cost. Use free trials or money-back guarantees to test the service before committing.
- User Reviews: Reading user reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance and reliability of the VPN. Reviews often highlight real-world experiences, helping you gauge the pros and cons of each VPN from a user’s perspective.
- Special Requirements: Think about any specific needs you may have. For instance, if you plan to access streaming services like Netflix or Hulu, ensure the VPN can bypass geo-restrictions for these platforms. Similarly, if you need to connect to devices at home, check if the VPN supports this functionality.
By considering these factors, you can choose a VPN that offers a balanced combination of speed, security, ease of use, and affordability, ensuring a smooth and secure online experience during your travels in Japan. However, if you face any issues using a VPN, you can quickly fix them using the steps below.
Troubleshooting VPN Issues in Japan
Experiencing issues with your VPN in Japan can be frustrating, mainly when you rely on it for streaming or secure browsing. Here are some common VPN problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- Slow Connection Speeds: Try switching to a different server. A server closer to your physical location or less congested can improve speeds. Additionally, ensure no other applications or devices are consuming significant bandwidth.
- Connection Drops: Check your internet connection to ensure it’s stable. If the problem persists, try switching protocols (e.g., from OpenVPN to IKEv2). Enabling the kill switch” feature can help maintain your privacy if the connection drops unexpectedly.
- Unable to Connect to VPN: Restart your device and the VPN application. Ensure your VPN software is up to date. If the issue continues, try connecting to a different server or contact your VPN provider’s support for assistance.
- High Ping and Latency Issues: Select a server closer to the game server to reduce latency. Switching to a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi can also improve ping times. Ensure no background applications are using significant bandwidth.
- Compatibility Issues: Ensure your VPN is compatible with your device and operating system. Some VPNs have dedicated apps for different platforms, which can help resolve compatibility issues.
By troubleshooting these common issues, you can often restore your VPN’s functionality and continue to enjoy a secure and seamless internet experience in Japan. If problems persist, contacting your VPN provider’s support team is recommended.
Geo-Blocked Platforms to Unblock with a VPN in Japan
Here are some of the geo-blocked platforms you can unblock with the best VPN for Japan:
| Streaming Platforms |
| Stan in Japan |
| Vudu in Japan |
| NBC in Japan |
| JioCinema in Japan |
| ITV in Japan |
Exciting Shows, Awards, and Movies to Watch with a VPN in Japan
You can watch the following exciting movies and shows with the best VPN in Japan:
| Shows & Movies | ||||
| Quantum Leap Season 2 | SkyMed Season 2 | Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild | Found 2024 | Killer Vacation (Últimas Férias) |
| Grand Designs 2024 | Extended Family | Vadhuvu | Odd Squad Season 2 | Das Boot Season |
| United Cup Tennis 2023-2024 | Arthdal Chronicles Season 2 on Disney Plus | Love Island Australia Season 5 | I’ve Got A Text with Josh and Flex | Heartland Season 17 |
FAQs – Best VPN for Japan
Which VPN works best in Japan?
When choosing the best VPN for use in Japan, ExpressVPN stands out as the top choice. Known for its lightning-fast speeds and robust security features, this VPN ensures a seamless and secure browsing experience.
What is the fastest VPN in Japan?
Determining Japan’s fastest” VPN is challenging because various factors can influence VPN speed. However, ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN are well-regarded for their high speeds. Remember that your internet connection speed will also affect how quickly a VPN performs in Japan.
What is the best VPN for accessing Japanese Netflix abroad?
ExpressVPN is the best choice for accessing Japanese Netflix abroad. It provides fast, reliable servers in Japan, ensuring smooth streaming with minimal buffering. With strong encryption and a proven ability to circumvent geo-restrictions, ExpressVPN lets you watch Japanese Netflix from anywhere.
What should I do if my VPN is blocked in Japan?
If your VPN is blocked in Japan, try switching to a different server within the same country or connecting through an obfuscated server if your VPN offers that option. You can also clear your browser’s cache and cookies or try a different VPN provider known for bypassing restrictions, like ExpressVPN.
Does VPN work with Japanese streaming services?
Yes, a VPN works with Japanese streaming services. ExpressVPN is highly recommended for this purpose, as it reliably circumvents geo-restrictions and provides fast, stable connections to Japanese servers. With this VPN, you can easily access popular Japanese streaming platforms from anywhere in the world.
Is there a free Japan VPN?
ProtonVPN and TunnelBear are both the best free VPNs for Japan. They even offer free servers in other countries around the globe. Windscribe falls on the second rank because of its best free plan but the unavailability of servers in Japan.
How I can get Japanese Netflix with a VPN?
- Choose a Reliable VPN: Select a VPN known for circumventing geo-restrictions such as ExpressVPN.
- Sign Up and Install: Sign up and install the VPN software on your preferred device.
- Connect to a Japanese Server: Connect the VPN to a server in Japan.
- Open Japanese Netflix: Finally, open the Japanese Netflix app to stream in Japan.
Does NordVPN cover Japan?
Yes, NordVPN covers Japan. It offers multiple servers in the country, providing reliable and secure connections for accessing local content and streaming services. With NordVPN, you can easily connect to a Japanese server from anywhere in the world.
Wrapping Up!
Users in Japan often face location-restricted content and online privacy concerns, limiting access to streaming services and secure browsing. A VPN addresses these issues by providing access to global content and enhancing privacy. The best VPN for Japan circumvents geo-restrictions and ensures online security.
Among the VPNs I’ve tested, ExpressVPN emerges as the best VPN for Japan. Its features, including fast speeds, robust security, and a wide server network, make it highly suitable for users in Japan.