5 Best VPNs for Japan in 2024

Japan is largely free when it comes to restrictions on the Internet. The Japanese government does not impose strict censorship to block content. However, the government does hold the power to demand user data from companies without a court order. 

You also have to consider that many websites and services are not available in Japan, plus you cannot access exclusive Japanese content like anime outside of the country. So, if your goal is to protect your online activities from authorities and access both Japanese and global content, you’ll need a powerful VPN for Japan. 

We have put together a group of reliable and trustworthy VPNs that offer servers in Japan in this article. We’ll also explain how to get a Japanese VPN, discuss specific features to look for in a VPN, share which types of websites are blocked in Japan, and much more.

Best Japan VPN – Our Shortlist

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN for Japan
2. NordVPN – Top VPN with the Most Servers in Japan
3. CyberGhost VPN – Best VPN for Streaming in Japan
4. Private Internet Access – Japan VPN Suitable for Advanced Users
5. Surfshark – Best VPN for Japan with Unlimited Connections

How to Get a Japanese VPN

To get a Japanese VPN, you must first subscribe to a suitable VPN with servers in Japan. Here’s an easy step-by-step process:

1. Subscribe to a VPN with servers in Japan (we recommend ExpressVPN).
2. Download the VPN app on your device(s).
3. Use your credentials to sign in to the app.
4. Find a server in Japan and connect to it.
5. That’s it! Now you can browse the Internet protected by your Japanese VPN.

Accessing local content requires displaying a Japanese IP address by connecting to a VPN server in Japan. If you want to access global content like US-based streaming services, then connect to a suitable VPN server outside of the country.

Best VPN for Japan

In our guide for the best VPNs with the most servers, we laid out certain guidelines you must follow when selecting a VPN for Japan. The first criteria to look for are servers in Japan and a large global server network that will let you access geo-restricted content inside and outside of the country. Offering dedicated IPs for Japan is also ideal. 

The VPN must be capable of delivering fast speeds and performing reliably under various circumstances. It should offer privacy features like a no-logs policy, AES 256-bit encryption, advanced VPN protocols, and DNS/IP leak protection. Other important criteria that a powerful Japan VPN should include are simultaneous connections, unlimited bandwidth, compatibility with major devices, a solid money-back policy, and customer support you can rely on. 

Based on the criteria above, here’s our list of the best Japan VPNs:

1. ExpressVPN – Our #1-Rated VPN for Japan

ExpressVPN offers 3,000+ VPN servers in 94 countries, and part of that network includes three server locations in Japan: Tokyo, Yokohama, and Shibuya. Thanks to its worldwide reach, ExpressVPN allows you to access both Japanese and global content. Furthermore, its servers are blazing fast and perform reliably.

There's a reason why ExpressVPN has been among the most popular VPNs for a long time now. This highly-capable VPN service caters to both inexperienced and experienced users, managing to bring a solid set of features wrapped in a highly polished interface.

You can definitely count on ExpressVPN to keep you secure online. Thanks to its AES 256-bit encryption and the use of modern VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPsec, and Lightway (ExpressVPN's own protocol), it’s safe to say that you’ll be invisible on the Web. 

There’s also a whole slate of advanced tools like a kill switch, split tunneling, DNS/IP leak protection, and more. All those tools work in the background without your input. You can download ExpressVPN on multiple supported platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It also supports routers and streaming devices.

Furthermore, subscribing to ExpressVPN gives you the freedom to connect up to 5 devices simultaneously, and all the plans support unlimited bandwidth. Being a leading VPN provider, ExpressVPN guarantees a 30-day money-back policy, 24/7 customer support, and a zero-logs policy, which has been audited multiple times. 

2. NordVPN – Top VPN with the Most Servers in Japan

Bringing more than 5,600 servers scattered across 60 countries, NordVPN will take you where you want to go. This VPN provider is one of the best-known when it comes to unblocking geo-restricted websites and services outside of Japan. Additionally, thanks to its 130+ servers in Japan (plus dedicated IP addresses), you can access Japanese-exclusive content from anywhere in the world.  

Based on how restrictive your ISP is, you can choose between different VPN protocols such as NordLynx, OpenVPN, or IKEv2. With NordVPN, you’ll also have access to servers that allow you to obfuscate your traffic. 

On the subject of encryption, NordVPN uses 256-bit encryption for security. Its DNS leak protection provides another layer of protection to prevent your ISP from detecting your online activities. Owing to its privacy-friendly jurisdiction, NordVPN also has an externally verified no-logs policy.

We have to mention that NordVPN isn't the fastest option out of the box. However, since it gives you plenty of options for fine-tuning, you have complete control over your configuration. Its performance holds up well for a reliable VPN experience with no hiccups. 

NordVPN allows you to use its services on 6 devices simultaneously with no data restrictions thanks to its unlimited bandwidth policy. It is compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, streaming devices, and routers.

Lastly, NordVPN is available with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Got any questions? The VPN provider has 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.

3. CyberGhost VPN – Best VPN for Streaming in Japan

CyberGhost is a highly reputable Japan VPN service known for the size of its server fleet. It comes with 9,000+ servers spread across 91 countries and 116 locations. And yes, it also offers 50+ servers in Japan, located in Tokyo. This means you will have no trouble unblocking Japanese content or accessing global content.

You can use CyberGhost to unblock websites, reach new streaming services, download torrents, play online games (its gaming servers are available on Windows only), and more. Overall, this is a VPN that performs well under any situation with good speeds and reliability that you have come to expect from a leading name in the market.  

In terms of your privacy, know that CyberGhost is a verified no-logs VPN service. It employs advanced VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Wireguard, most of which use 256-bit encryption. The provider also includes notable features like DNS/IP leak protection and a kill switch.

The app is easy to use and suitable even for complete beginners. Supported platforms include many major devices such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and routers. And you get up to 7 simultaneous connections, which is generous enough.

Furthermore, all subscription plans support unlimited bandwidth and come with a 45-day money-back guarantee (except the monthly plan, which has a 14-day policy). You also get the benefit of 24/7 customer support that’s available via live chat and email.

4. Private Internet Access – Japan VPN Suitable for Advanced Users

Private Internet Access (PIA) has the largest server network on the market with thousands of units in 84 countries. Some of those servers are in Japan, including those that give you dedicated IP addresses in Tokyo. So, you’ll be able to unblock Japanese and global content using PIA’s vast server fleet.

Speaking of servers, they come in handy for delivering stable performance during activities like streaming and gaming. It’s safe to say that PIA’s speed soars thanks to 10 Gbps bandwidth offered on all its servers.

PIA is one of the oldest and most reliable VPNs around, with a verified zero-logs policy and a stellar reputation for keeping their users safe on the Web. During the last couple years, this VPN implemented many changes and new features, taking the lead in terms of innovation. Most recently, PIA upgraded from 10 to unlimited simultaneous connections. This is excellent news because now you can use multiple supported devices and platforms—like Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and routers—at the same time.

This provider is powered by solid VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, IKEv2, and WireGuard, the latter of which brings just the right balance between speed and security. PIA also comes with AES 256-bit encryption but allows you to optimize that by switching to AES 128-bit when needed.

PIA offers an advanced kill switch, split tunneling, DNS leak protection, and a powerful ad-blocking mechanism. You can also automate the VPN, giving you protection on certain types of Web connections, and you can even connect through multiple servers at once.

Subscribing to PIA gets you a 30-day money-back guarantee, and you can contact customer support 24/7 via live chat and email if you need any help configuring the app.

5. Surfshark – Best VPN for Japan with Unlimited Connections

Surfshark employs 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, including Japan. Although it doesn't have the biggest server network out there, it should be large enough for most users. It offers a group of servers in Tokyo, allowing you to unblock Japanese websites from abroad as well as global content from inside Japan.

You’ll have no problems with speed, as Surfshark’s performance is satisfactory to say the least. It delivers consistently fast connections without any major reliability issues like random disconnections.

You can choose from several ultra-capable VPN protocols such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Wireguard with 256-bit encryption, which is incredibly secure. Surfshark also offers features like MultiHop, DNS leak protection, and a pop-up blocker to help you get rid of ads and avoid malicious websites. If you are wondering about its data collection and retention habits, Surfshark operates out of the Netherlands and has successfully passed an external audit of its no-logs policy.

Surfshark supports various devices and platforms, covering computers, phones, tablets, routers, media streaming devices, and more. A unique thing about Surfshark is that it imposes no limits on simultaneous connections, which is a very welcome feature.

You can subscribe to Surfshark with peace of mind thanks to its 30-day money-back policy. If you need any help or have questions, you’ll get all the assistance you need by contacting their 24/7 customer support via live chat or email. 

Why Do You Need a VPN for Japan?

You’ll need a VPN for Japan if you wish to unblock websites available only in that country, to protect your privacy, and to access worldwide content on the Web. More reasons why you need a VPN include:

• Accessing Japanese Digital Services – If you love watching Japanese movies, TV shows, and anime, you'll want a way to access the Japanese version of Netflix and other streamers. A VPN will change your IP address, giving you access to Japan-exclusive content, no matter where in the world you're located.
• Unblocking Foreign Content – Internet users in Japan only have access to Japanese versions of websites and services. However, if you want to enjoy global content like US Netflix or Disney Plus, you'll need a VPN that offers servers outside of Japan to unblock everything.
• Protecting Yourself from Surveillance – Like any other country, Japan has laws regarding its national security, which apply to the digital realm as well. Those laws allow Japanese ISPs to track their users' online activities and collect data about their browsing habits. A VPN will put an end to that type of tracking.
• Downloading Torrents Anonymously – Japanese authorities are pretty harsh when it comes to piracy and copyright infringement, so downloading torrents without using VPN protection is not a good idea. If you're into torrenting, make sure to pick a VPN that allows P2P traffic.
• Avoiding Bandwidth Throttling – If you suspect that your ISP is throttling the speed of your Internet connection (which is a common occurrence when large amounts of data are being consumed), a VPN will help you bypass that. By hiding your data usage from your ISP, a VPN will prevent them from selectively throttling your speed.

How to Choose the Best Japan VPN?

Choosing the best Japan VPN requires looking at the provider’s core functionality as well as specific features that give you freedom and privacy on the Internet. Here’s what you need to focus on:

• Find a Large Server Network – Servers are the backbone of any VPN service. You need to look for a VPN that offers servers in Japan as well as across the world. 
• Look for Strong Security – A VPN encrypts your Internet traffic to protect you from cyber threats and online surveillance. Look for a VPN that offers AES 256-bit encryption, which is the toughest symmetric option trusted by security experts worldwide. 
• Require a No-Logs Policy – Another thing you must look for is an iron-clad privacy policy that promises it will never log your activities. It is also important to see if the VPN provider has passed an external audit that verifies its no-logs policy.
• Check for Streaming Support – The VPN must support streaming to help you unblock services in Japan and around the globe. Torrenting and gaming support is also ideal, and some providers even offer specialized servers for different activities.
• Ensure Device Compatibility – The Japan VPN you pick must be compatible with major platforms such as Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, streaming devices, and routers.
• Buy with a Money-Back Guarantee – A money-back guarantee helps protect your purchase, so you can get a refund if the VPN service does not live up to your expectations.

Websites That Are Blocked in Japan

Japan does not currently block websites or services on the Internet other than those related to online piracy. That said, there have been past instances where the Japanese government has used its authority to prevent access to or censor some types of content. Here are some examples:

• Copyrighted Content – Japan’s national ISP blocks access to websites that direct users to copyrighted content such as anime, manga, and TV shows. This means major torrenting websites are also blocked because a large portion of them contain copyrighted content.
• Geo-Restricted Services – If you travel to Japan, you won’t be able to access content from home. For example, Netflix will load a local Japanese version that might not have the TV shows or movies that you want to watch.
• Pornography – The sale and distribution of pornography are restricted under Article 175 of the Criminal Code of Japan, which indicates that all pornography must be at least partially censored. Arrests have been made, and fines imposed in accordance.

Can I Use a Free VPN for Japan?

Yes, you can use a free VPN for Japan, but we highly recommend against it. When it comes to your online safety, free VPNs cannot be trusted.

The fact that they log your activities and sell them to advertisers is the foremost drawback. Operating a VPN service is not easy, so if the VPN service is not directly charging, then it’s likely selling your data to make money. Free VPNs also typically don’t offer many security features like kill switches or data leak protection. 

Moreover, your experience will be severely limited. You will only have access to limited servers with slow connections that will be significantly bottlenecked during peak hours, reducing your speed even further. It’s not an ideal situation when you’re looking for a flawless streaming and gaming experience in Japan.

Undoubtedly, premium VPNs are the way to go when it comes to online privacy. Check out our best VPNs list for some suggestions.

Final Thoughts

Online surveillance is not rampant in Japan, but it does exist. A more common frustration is that you cannot access certain types of global content in Japan due to geo-restrictions. Luckily, a powerful VPN will solve both of these problems.

ExpressVPN is our recommendation as the top VPN for Japan because it is everything that you want in a VPN. It will protect you from surveillance thanks to its strong encryption, advanced VPN protocols, and a verified no-logs policy. Furthermore, its massive server network enables access to restricted content inside and outside of Japan. With ExpressVPN, you will have absolute freedom online.

That would be all when it comes to our advice for choosing a VPN for Japan. We hope you’ll pick a provider from our article and enjoy browsing the Web without any limitations. Thank you for reading!