The online world in Japan is fast-paced, with 102.5 million users connected to the internet, which the government strictly monitors. Therefore, ensuring that you have robust digital security in the form of the best VPN for Japan to address various digital challenges is essential.
Whether traveling for a vacation or business, a VPN is necessary to protect your information overseas. This is especially vital in Japan due to its intelligence-sharing ties with the Five Eyes Alliance. A VPN lets you access US news sites, TV shows, and movies typically blocked in Japan.
Below is a guide to the top VPN providers for Japan, thoroughly tested by experts to find the best options for your travels.
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:
What to Look for in a VPN in Japan?
Here are essential functions that you should consider while taking a subscription to any VPN for Japan:
| Server Count in Japan | Ensure the VPN has servers in your desired region like in Japan. |
| Average Speed | Prioritize VPNs with modern server networks, employing rapid protocols like WireGuard for efficient and fast connections. |
| Advance Security Protocols | Safeguard your online anonymity by opting for reputable providers. Test for potential leaks, such as DNS and WebRTC, to guarantee your VPN’s effectiveness. |
| Pricing | Select a VPN that aligns with your financial plan. Quality providers typically range from $3 to $15 per month, offering diverse features based on your subscription duration and preferences. |
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 the best VPNs for Japan:
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 all the geo-restricted streaming platforms in Japan, like Netflix, Hulu, etc. I also tested ExpressVPN with Amazon Prime in Japan, and it provided an exceptional streaming experience.
Aside from the international platforms, ExpressVPN is also considered the best VPN for Abema TV Japan because it did not deliver any buffering when I streamed the platform.
I had no issues unblocking Japanese Netflix abroad, making it the best VPN for Japan Netflix.
Speed is crucial for any VPN user, and ExpressVPN doesn’t disappoint. In the 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 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.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special ExpressVPN offer! Grab the best VPN for Japan at JPY 1047.38/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free.
Pros
- Best VPN for Japan per Reddit
- Fast and efficient servers
- Easily unblock local and international channels in Japan
- Supports multiple devices simultaneously
- Strict zero-logs policy
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other options
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; its impressive features also 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.
Surfshark, despite its affordable price, delivers impressive unblocking capabilities. After extensive testing, I have found that Surfshark 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 in Japan.
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 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 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 various users.
Surfshark offers the most pocket-friendly package among all the Japanese VPNs and promises top-notch security. But if you want to get more insights into the VPNs, you can read my Surfshark review in Japan.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special Surfshark offer! Grab the budget friendly VPN for Japan at JPY 391/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros
- Budget-friendly Japanese VPN
- Unblocks most streaming sites, Netflix, HBO Max, etc
- Unlimited bandwidth for Japan
- Circumvents geo-blocks with ease
- 24/7 live chat
Cons
- Some servers may not connect immediately
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, 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 this best VPN in Japan, check out my NordVPN review in Japan.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special NordVPN offer! Grab the Large Server Network VPN for Japan at JPY 626.54/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free
Pros
- 130+ servers in Japan
- Lag-free streaming of Japanese channels and abroad
- Encrypts your data and follows a strict no-logs policy
- Live chat help 24 hours a day
Cons
- Occasional speed fluctuation
- Desktop app occupies much screen space
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:
From this best Japan VPN, I was able to access plenty of US streaming sites using IPVanish servers.
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 73.67 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 and 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.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special IPVanish offer! Grab the fastest VPN for Japan at JPY 469.51/mo (US$ 2.99/mo) - Get 3 Months Extra + Save 77% on 2-year plan.
Pros
- Overall fast servers
- Easily unblocks international streaming services in Japan
- Strict no-logs policy
- SOCKS5 proxy to mask your IP address
Cons
- US-based VPN service (member of the 14 Eyes)
- Customer service response is too slow
CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN App in Japan
CyberGhost is the most user-friendly VPN in Japan. Its intuitive interface makes it a go-to choice for both 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, browsing, or gaming.
CyberGhost excels in providing high-speed servers, 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 75.47 Mbps and an upload speed of 69.34 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 apps for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Android TV, Linux, Kodi, and Firestick. 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.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special CyberGhost offer! Grab the User-Friendly VPN for Japan at JPY 318.77/mo (US$ 2.03/mo) - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free
Pros
- Offers 109 servers in Tokyo, Japan
- A good number of servers across the globe
- Stream most local and international content
- 45 days money-back guarantee
Cons
- Occasional speed fluctuation
- Does not work in China
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, 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 and 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.
Exclusive Deal
VPNRanks readers can enjoy a special PIA offer! Grab the Best VPN for Torrenting for Japan at JPY331.33/mo (US$ 2.11/mo)
Pros
- Extensive server network
- Connect unlimited devices simultaneously
- Doesn’t throttle bandwidth for browsing in Japan
Cons
- Struggles with major streaming sites
- China servers don’t work that reliably
- Unsafe jurisdiction
Why Do You Need a VPN in Japan?
You need a top VPN in Japan to circumvent geo-restrictions effectively. Many online platforms restrict access based on location, but a VPN allows you to surpass these barriers. Without one, accessing geo-restricted sites often results in error messages, blocking your access to diverse content.
Likewise, if you want to access a Japanese streaming platform outside the country, you will get the following geo-restriction error:
I face Error: Access restricted to Japanese streaming platforms outside the country.
VPNs are vital in navigating these restrictions. They change your IP address, giving you a Japanese IP address, for instance, to access local content or a different country’s IP for international services.
ExpressVPN is a top choice for Japan. It provides reliable Japanese IP addresses, strong encryption, and advanced security to protect your identity. Ideal for secure browsing and streaming, ExpressVPN combats ISP throttling and ensures easy access to local and international content.
Methodology: How to Choose the Best VPN for Japan in 2024
With hundreds of VPNs available, I evaluated the best for Japan using key factors:
- Privacy: The best VPNs feature 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy to protect your data.
- Servers: We prioritized VPNs with extensive server networks, particularly in Japan and the US.
- Streaming capabilities: Strong geo-unblocking capabilities are essential for accessing content while traveling in Japan.
- Speed: Fast VPNs like ExpressVPN allow UHD streaming and seamless internet use.
- Price: I assessed value by comparing security features and benefits, favoring those with discounted plans or money-back guarantees.
Best VPNs for Japan Compared
Here’s a quick comparison of the best VPN for Japan and other options:
| 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 server |
| 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 1047.38/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | JPY 391/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | JPY 626.54/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free | JPY 469.51/mo (US$ 2.99/mo) - Get 3 Months Extra + Save 77% on 2-year plan | JPY 318.77/mo (US$ 2.03/mo) - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free | JPY 331.33/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 the VPNs, I have brought 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, essential for accessing content restricted to Japan.
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: With the VPN connected, you can now access content like Netflix Japan, previously blocked outside of 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 7 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. Top VPNs 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.
Is it Legal to Use a VPN 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 a VPN 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 top choices 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.
To watch Hulu and Netflix Japan, I recommend using ExpressVPN. This VPN offers fast speeds and robust security, making it an excellent choice for streaming.
Comprehensive VPN Recommendations for Japan By Redditors
Reddit users frequently discuss the best VPNs for various purposes in Japan, such as accessing US services, torrenting, and media consumption. Popular choices include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Mullvad for their reliability, speed, and privacy features. AirVPN and ProtonVPN are recommended for their robust security and port forwarding capabilities.
Some users suggest building a personal VPN for optimal performance. Free VPNs are generally discouraged due to limitations and privacy concerns. Other notable mentions are Surfshark, PIA, Windscribe, and TorGuard for their effective service and customer support.
What are the Best VPNs for Fast Gaming in Japan?
When it comes to fast gaming in Japan, choosing the right VPN can significantly enhance your experience by reducing lag and ensuring a stable connection. ExpressVPN is renowned for its high-speed servers and excellent performance, making it a top choice for gamers.
It offers multiple servers in Japan and nearby regions, which ensures low latency and fast connections. Its strong encryption, reliable connection stability, and excellent customer support make it a standout option.
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 gaming 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 for gaming.
- Limit other internet activities while gaming to prevent bandwidth congestion.
Troubleshooting VPN Issues in Japan
Experiencing issues with your VPN in Japan can be frustrating, mainly when you rely on it for gaming, 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 often 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-Restricted Platforms to Unblock with a VPN in Japan
Here are some of the geo-restricted platforms you can unblock with the best VPN for Japan:
| 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:
FAQs – Best VPN for Japan
What is the best VPN for 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.
Its extensive network includes multiple servers in Japan, which helps maintain low latency and high performance for streaming, gaming, and browsing activities.
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.
Which VPN has Japan servers for free?
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?
To access Japanese Netflix with a VPN, follow the steps below:
- Choose a Reliable VPN: Select a VPN known for circumventing geo-restrictions on Netflix Japan. My go-to choice is ExpressVPN, which I find best for Japan.
- Sign Up and Install: Sign up for an ExpressVPN plan 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 the content available in Japan.
Do I need a VPN to travel to Japan?
Using a VPN while traveling to Japan is not necessarily required. Japan has a relatively open and unrestricted internet environment, and there are no widespread restrictions or censorship on accessing websites or online content. However, using a VPN can still be beneficial for certain reasons, such as enhancing your online security and privacy, circumventing geo-blocked content, or accessing websites or services
Does ExpressVPN work in Japan?
ExpressVPN works in Japan, with risk-free servers spread in Tokyo and Yokohama. Apart from Japan, it offers a vast server network in 105+ countries globally. You can enjoy smooth and reliable activities in Japan and worldwide.
Does NordVPN work in Japan?
Yes, you can, and it’s very simple. Open the NordVPN app and select Japan on the map. If you prefer to choose a specific server in Japan, scroll down the list of countries, click on the three-dot icon next to Japan, and select your desired server.
Is there a free Japan VPN?
Proton VPN and TunnelBear are excellent options that provide free servers in Japan and other countries. Windscribe is often regarded as a top VPN with a free plan, but it ranks lower because it does not offer a Japanese server option, unlike Proton VPN and TunnelBear.
Wrapping Up!
Users in Japan often face geo-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.