Channel 4, the UK’s free streaming service, offers a fantastic lineup of shows, but is it available in Japan? Unfortunately, no. The platform is geo-restricted to the UK. Don’t stress over how to watch Channel 4 in Japan. With a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, you can unlock and stream Channel 4 seamlessly.
Boasting 17.4 million total visits, Channel 4 ranks #1 in the UK’s Streaming & Online TV category. It offers live and on-demand content, from hilarious comedies like Derry Girls” to gripping dramas like It’s a Sin”. However, geo-restrictions prevent access to this content; fear not! I will show you how to watch British Channel 4 in Japan with a VPN.
Key Takeaways:
- Channel 4 is geo-restricted: You can’t access it directly from the US due to licensing agreements.
- A VPN is your key: Use a VPN service to virtually change your location to the UK and stream channel 4 in Japan.
- Choose a reputable VPN: Find one with strong UK server networks, fast speeds, and secure connections.
- Create a Channel 4 account: Once connected to a UK server, head to Channel 4’s website and create a free account (using a valid UK postal code might be needed).
- Devices: Channel 4 is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TV
- Effortless Troubleshooting Tips: Access practical solutions for typical challenges such as VPN blocks or slow streaming speeds, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience.
How to Watch Channel 4 in Japan With a VPN
You can stream Channel 4 in Japan with a VPN due to geographical restrictions. Here’s how to watch Channel 4 in Japan using a VPN:
- Choose a reliable VPN service; I prefer ExpressVPN for its dependability.
- Install the VPN app on the desired streaming device.
- Connect to a UK-based server to obtain a UK IP address. I recommend the Dockland server.
- Navigate to the Channel 4 website, download the All 4 app, and log in.
- Stream Channel 4’s extensive library, free from geo-blocks.
Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch Channel 4 in Japan?
Channel 4 and its streaming service, All 4, are restricted in Japan due to copyright and distribution agreements. As a result, even if you have a Channel 4 account registered in the UK, attempting to access from the Japan without a VPN results in an error message.
Not Available. All 4 is only available in the UK.”

I could not watch a video on Channel 4 due to this error prompt when I tried to play it.
Best VPNs to Watch Channel 4 in Japan [Quick Overview]
When looking for how to watch Channel 4 in Japan, choosing the right VPN is a crucial step. Here are my recommendations for the best VPN to watch Channel 4 in Japan:
Best VPNs to Watch Channel 4 in Japan [In-Depth Analysis]
Following are the best VPNs to watch Channel 4 in Japan, which I shortlisted after analyzing 1.3 million VPN users’ experiences. I prioritize VPNs that offer excellent streaming quality, robust security, and good value.
Compare the Best Channel 4 VPN in Japan
Here’s a quick rundown of my selected VPNs that can efficiently access Channel 4 in Japan:
VPNs | ExpressVPN | Surfshark | NordVPN |
---|---|---|---|
Ranking for Channel 4 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
Total country count for servers | 105 countries | 100 countries | 61 countries |
UK servers | 5 | 4 | 440 |
Speed (On 100 MBps) | 88.78 Mbps download | 81.32 Mbps download | 83.82 Mbps download |
Simultaneous Connections | 8 | Unlimited | 10 |
Unblocks Streaming Platforms | Channel 4, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More | Channel 4, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More | Channel 4, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More |
Security | AES 256-bit Encryption, Trusted Server Technology, No-Logs Policy | AES 256-bit Encryption, CleanWeb, No-Logs Policy | AES 256-bit Encryption, Double VPN, No-Logs Policy |
Pricing | JPY 731.17/mo (US$ 4.99/mo) - Save 61% With Exclusive 2-Year Plan + 4 Months Free | JPY 364.85/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | JPY 496.73/mo (US$ 3.39/mo) - Save up to 70% off on 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee |
Money Back Guarantee | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
Reviews | ExpressVPN review | Surfshark review | NordVPN review |
Can I Watch Channel 4 in Japan With a Free VPN?
You can watch Channel 4 using a free VPN; however, I don’t recommend it. While some dependable free VPNs for Channel 4 in Japan are available, they have limitations like slower speeds, data caps, and fewer server options, which can hinder streaming quality.
Additionally, free VPNs may be less effective at maintaining consistent access due to Channel 4’s measures to block VPN traffic. Security is also a concern, as some free VPNs track and sell user data to third parties. For a more secure and reliable streaming experience, I recommend using a paid VPN service like ExpressVPN.
How to Sign Up for Channel 4 in Japan?
Channel 4 is free to watch, so you won’t need to provide payment details to sign up for an account. Here’s my comprehensive guide on how to get Channel 4 in Japan, from choosing a VPN to creating an account:
- Choose a VPN with a strong presence in the UK. I recommend ExpressVPN for its reliability and speed.
- Install the VPN and connect to a UK server. I recommend the Dockland server.
- Visit the Channel 4 website or download the All 4 app, and click the Register” option.

Open the Channel 4 official website or app and register
- Provide your email address and create a password for the new Channel 4 account. A UK postcode is required to sign up, which you can easily find online.

Enter the required information, including the UK postal code, to create an account.
- Check your email for a verification message from Channel 4 and confirm your account setup.
- With the account verified, watch Channel 4 live or on-demand, enjoying shows like Young Sheldon” and Sex and the City.”
How Much is a Channel 4 Subscription in Japan?
Channel 4 is a free streaming service funded by advertising. You don’t need a paid subscription to enjoy its on-demand content and live TV. However, it now offers a premium subscription tier called Channel 4 Plus for ad-free streaming.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of Channel 4 subscription plans in both UK Pounds and USD (approximate conversion):
Plan | Monthly (GBP) | Monthly (USD) | Annual (GBP) | Annual (USD) | Free Trial |
Free Channel 4 | Free | Free | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Channel 4 Plus | £3.99 | $4.78 | £39.99 | $47.83 | 7 days |
What Devices Can I Use to Watch Channel 4 in Japan?
Channel 4 can be streamed on various devices once connected to a VPN server in the UK. If you’re looking for where to watch Channel 4 in Japan, the following devices can be used:
Android | iOS |
Mac | Smart TV |
Firestick | Xbox One |
PS4 | Roku |
Apple TV | Android TV |
How to Watch Channel 4 in Japan on Android?
Many Android users ask: Can I watch stream Channel 4 in US on my Android mobile device? You can stream Channel 4 programs directly on your Android device through the website or their dedicated mobile app.
To download the Channel 4 streaming app on Android in Japan:
- Subscribe to a premium VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Connect to a UK server via your VPN. I recommend the Dockland server.
- Create a new Gmail ID with your region, switch to the United Kingdom, and log in.
- Go to the Google Play Store and search for the Channel 4 app.
- Download the app and enjoy the live streaming of Channel 4 for free in Japan!
How to Watch All 4 in Japan on iOS (iPad and iPhone)?
iOS users wondering how to watch Channel 4 in Japan on their iPhone, follow the steps given below:
- Download a Channel 4 VPN on your iOS device. ExpressVPN is recommended.
- Connect your device to a UK server through a VPN. I recommend the Dockland server.
- Go to Settings –> tap on your Apple account –> Media & Purchases –> Change your region to UK.
- Visit the Apple App Store and download the Channel 4 app.
- Log in and start streaming Channel 4 in Japan.
How Can I Watch Channel 4 in Japan on Smart TV?
Here is how to watch Channel 4 in Japan on Smart TV:
- Subscribe to a premium VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Connect to a server in the UK. I recommend the Dockland server.
- Ensure your Smart TV is connected to a VPN-enabled network.
- Download the Channel 4 app from your TV’s app store.
- Log in to enjoy Channel 4 stream live on the big screen!
Can you use Channel 4 in Japan on Firestick
Yes, you can use Channel 4 in Japan on Firestick. To do this, you must use a VPN to connect to a UK server, allowing you to access geo-restricted content. Here’s how:
- Choose a VPN service that has servers in the UK. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN on the Firestick device and connect to the UK-Dockland server.
- Search for the Channel 4 app on the Firestick home screen.
- Download and install the Channel 4 app.
- Launch the app and follow the on-screen prompts to create or log into an existing Channel 4 account.
How can I stream Channel 4 in Japan on Roku?
Here is how can you stream Channel 4 in Japan on Roku:
- Download a reliable VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN.
- Log into your VPN account and connect to a UK server. I recommend the Dockland server.
- Connect the Roku stick to your smart TV with the HDMI connector.
- Add the Channel 4 app from the Roku channel store.
- Sign in to enjoy Channel 4 on-demand free in Japan!
How to Fix Channel 4 Not Working With a VPN in Japan?
If you encounter the Channel 4 app not working with VPN services, there are several steps you can take to resolve your Channel 4 VPN not working issues:
- Clear Cookies and Cache: Your device’s cookies and cache might reveal your location.
- Check for IP Leaks: You can check for IP leaks by searching What is my IP address” on Google.
- Switch Browsers: Try accessing Channel 4 on a different browser or in Incognito mode.
- Change Server: If one server doesn’t work, switch to another.
- Contact VPN Support: If you’re still facing issues, contact your VPN’s customer support for assistance.
- Switch VPN Service: Use a reliable VPN with a proven track record of unblocking channel 4, like ExpressVPN.
How to Watch Channel 4 in Japan: Insights from Reddit
I also explored Reddit to give you essential insights on watching Channel 4 in Japan effectively. Here’s a summary of Reddit discussions on accessing Channel 4, outlining solutions and potential issues.
Problem:
The primary issue discussed across various Reddit threads is the unavailability of Channel 4 outside the UK. Multiple threads consistently highlight the service geo-restricted challenge faced by viewers in Japan who want to access Channel 4.
VPN As a Recommended Solution:
The consensus solution uses a VPN to simulate a UK IP address, enabling access to Channel 4. However, it’s essential to consider factors like reliability, speed, and terms of service violations before choosing a VPN provider. I recommend ExpressVPN, which is highlighted for its effectiveness.
Additional Challenges Besides Georestriction:
- Account Creation: There are mentions of trouble creating a Channel 4 account due to the need for a UK postal code, with various workarounds suggested.
- App Store Limitations: Users also face hurdles in downloading the Channel 4 app from the US App Store due to regional restrictions.
- VPN Detection: Users discuss potential VPN issues like IP leaks and difficulty selecting the right server. They also talk about the continuous efforts by streaming services to detect and block VPN usage.
What to Watch on Channel 4 in Japan?
Channel 4 offers diverse content, including reality TV, drama series, documentaries, movies, and more. Here’s everything that you can watch on Channel 4:
The Great Season 3 | Don’t Look Down | Locked Up |
The Duchess and Her Magical Kingdom | Worst House on the Street | The Nevermets |
Open House: The Great Sex Experiment | The Sommerdahl Murders season 1 | Emergency |
Super Surgeons: A Chance at Life Series 2 | Suspect Season 2: New Series | PopMaster TV Season 2 |
More Channel 4 Streaming Guides:
Here are some of the best and most popular content to view on Channel 4:
- Watch Love Triangle E4 in Japan – Navigate complex relationships in this engaging series.
- Watch Guy Martin’s Lost WW2 Bomber in Japan on Channel 4: Guy Martin’s Journey to Recover a Lost WW2 Bomber
- Watch A Royal Guide to Funerals in Japan on Channel 4: Honoring Tradition with Grace and Dignity
- Watch Paris Paralympics on TV in Japan: Paris Paralympics: Inspiring athletes showcasing extraordinary abilities.
Channel 4 Reviews
Channel 4’s streaming service maintains a 4.34 out of 5-star rating on Amazon.co.uk, earning praise for its variety and streaming quality. Here’s a breakdown of some of the reviews:
- 5.0 out of 5 stars: Best Streaming Channel – Users have lauded Channel 4 as the best streaming channel with a good variety of shows.” This highlights Channel 4’s diverse content library, catering to various interests.
- 4.0 out of 5 stars: Lots of Choice – Another user commends the platform for its great programs.” This reinforces viewers’ overall satisfaction with the quality of shows offered by Channel 4.
- 2.0 out of 5 stars: App Needs Work – While the content is highly praised, the app’s functionality receives criticism, particularly the frequent crashes and issues with the back button, which complicate navigation and usability.
FAQs: How to watch Channel 4 in Japan
Is Channel 4 available in Japan?
No, Channel 4 is not available in Japan due to licensing and distribution agreements. It is restricted to viewers in the UK, and the platform enforces content limitations to prevent access from other countries.
Can you use Channel 4 in Japan?
No, you can’t, as Channel 4 is unavailable outside the UK. However, you can access it from the Japan using a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN. Download the VPN, connect to a UK server, and then visit channel4.com or download the All 4 app. After creating an account, you can watch Channel 4 in Japan.
Is Channel 4 free in Japan?
Yes, Channel 4 is free to watch. It operates as a free-to-air television network in the UK, offering Channel 4 free streaming with advertisements. However, for an ad-free experience and early access to selected episodes, you can opt for a Channel 4+ subscription, which costs £3.99 monthly.
Is It illegal to use a VPN for Channel 4 in Japan?
Using a VPN to watch Channel 4 is not illegal, but it may be against the streaming service’s terms of use. While the likelihood of facing any legal action is minimal, it is important to use a VPN responsibly and be aware of the terms of service of the streaming platform.
Can I watch Channel 4 without the App in Japan?
Yes, you can stream Channel 4’s content without app in Japan directly from their website. First, use ExpressVPN to connect to a UK server. Then, visit the Channel 4 website, sign in or create an account, and start streaming.
How can I watch Channel 4 in Japan on my TV?
You can get Channel 4 on your TV by downloading the All 4 app on your smart TV, PS4, or any streaming stick. But if you’re residing in the US, you’ll also need a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN to get around geo-restrictions and access All 4.
Conclusion
Channel 4 is one incredible VOD service that is, sadly, restricted. But hopefully, you can stream Channel 4 in Japan using a VPN.
Follow my step-by-step how to watch Channel 4 in Japan guide to connect to a UK server and enjoy Channel 4 streaming free from geo-block hassles. My journey to discovering which VPN is best for watching Channel 4 has led me to recommend ExpressVPN for its consistent performance and ease of use.