In Japan, a staggering 92% of citizens are online, and the internet is a well-ingrained part of Japanese society. While internet censorship and monitoring aren’t overly pervasive, subtle changes to government policy and within society have left people concerned about their online freedom and security. Whether you’re worried about that or you’re just trying to access your usual sites and content while traveling, the best VPNs for Japan can help you out.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) encrypt all of your device’s internet traffic, preventing network admins, governments, or ISPs from seeing what you get up to online. VPNs also mask your IP address and replace it with one from the country of your choice. This can help you access content from anywhere in the world, even if it’s geo-blocked in your particular region.
But, when selecting a VPN to use for Japan, not just any provider will do. We have conducted extensive research and testing to find the best VPN services to use for content and privacy in Japan. In this article, we’ll show you not only the best VPNs to use but also how to use them. Let’s start with a quick summary:
The best VPNs to use in Japan
- NordVPN Our #1 choice VPN for Japan. Unblocks most streaming content at great speeds with no compromises on security and privacy. Has over 130 servers in Japan. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Japan. - Surfshark Our top budget VPN for Japan. Security-focused provider with a no-logs policy, good speeds, no connection limits, and exceptional unblocking ability.
- Total VPN Speedy servers in Tokyo and a great choice for streaming. Apps use strong encryption and have built-in leak protection. Low-cost subscriptions include free antivirus software.
- ProtonVPN This privacy-first VPN has a large network with plenty of servers in Japan. Works with most major streaming platforms and offers advanced features like port forwarding, a speed booster, and Tor over VPN servers.
- ExpressVPN Premium VPN with secure RAM-only servers that can unblock most geo-restricted content in Japan and elsewhere. Also boasts a smart DNS service and its own custom router firmware.
- IPVanish A safe and secure VPN to use in Japan. Torrent-friendly VPN with good speeds and strong security. A favorite among Kodi users. Allows you to connect unlimited simultaneous devices.
- CyberGhost An easy-to-use VPN for Japan. Good for beginners thanks to its user-friendly apps, strong security, and decent speeds. Works with most streaming platforms, making it ideal for accessing Japanese content.
- PureVPN This affordable VPN is simple, straightforward, and secure. Offers impressive performance, a high degree of versatility, and a no-logs policy. One of the only providers with a fully graphical Linux app.
- Private Internet Access (PIA) Boasts an extensive network of servers, top-notch privacy features, and wallet-friendly prices, making it a great choice for Japan. Total lack of connection limits mean it’s perfect for sharing with family.
Many VPNs claim to protect your privacy and offer a fast, reliable connection but most (especially free VPNs) limit your connection speed or leak information.
We regularly test the top 70 VPNs for security and speed and this list only includes VPNs which are fast, reliable and are highly rated for privacy and security. Plus we only recommend VPNs which offer a full-money back guarantee allowing you to try them risk free.
WANT TO TRY THE TOP VPN RISK FREE?
NordVPN is offering a fully-featured risk-free 30-day trial if you sign up at this page. You can use our first choice for Japan with no restrictions, caps, or limits for a month. This lets you browse safely and stream content from back home during your stay.
There are no hidden terms—just contact support within 30 days if you decide not to keep NordVPN and you'll get a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.
How we selected the top Japan VPNs
There are plenty of VPNs on the market, but they don’t all provide the same level of service. To find the best VPNs for Japan, we tested providers in the areas outlined below. We’ll discuss our testing process more thoroughly and provide full evidence of the results at the end of this post.
- Speed: We carried out several speed tests while connected to each provider’s servers in Japan. Average speeds were converted to a score out of 10 for comparison.
- Streaming access: We scored providers on the number of server locations in Japan and their compatibility with various streaming platforms.
- Security and privacy: The 16 different criteria we used for calculating security and privacy scores assessed everything from the level of encryption to the protection against leaks.
- Ease of use: We used 10 individual metrics to evaluate how easy each VPN service was to use. These assessed everything from the design of the apps to the ease of signing up to a subscription.
- Value for money: Eight unique criteria were used to gauge whether providers offered good value for money, including the number of permitted connections and the existence (or not) of a free trial.
You can read more about our testing criteria, and the results of those tests in our methodology section below. But first, let’s take a closer look at the providers who impressed us.
Best VPNs for Japan: Comparison
We’ve tested and compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Japan.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | TotalVPN | Proton VPN | ExpressVPN | IPVanish | CyberGhost | PureVPN | Private Internet Access |
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | TotalVPN.com | ProtonVPN.com | ExpressVPN.com | IPVanish.com | Cyberghost.com | PureVPN.com | PrivateInternetAccess.com | Ranking for Japan: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Streaming Services | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer | Netflix Amazon Prime | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu BBC iPlayer | Netflix Amazon Prime BBC iPlayer Disney+ | Netflix Amazon Prime Hulu | Netflix Amazon Prime | Netflix Amazon Prime | Avg Speed (Mbps) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | Popular Sites Unblocked | 95% | 88% | 88% | 87% | 86% | 85% | 85% | 80% | 70% | Simultaneous Connections | 10 | Unlimited | 5 | Free: 1, VPN Plus: 10 | 8 | Unlimited | 7 | 10 | Unlimited | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV | Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Apple TV | Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, Android, Chromebook | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Chromebook, Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best deal (per month) | $3.39 Up to 76% off 2 year plans + free Amazon Gift Card | $1.99 87% OFF + 3 months free | $1.58 SAVE $80 on an annual plan | $3.59 SAVE 64% on a 2-year plan | $3.99 SAVE: Up to 69% + 4 months free on 2 year plans | $6.49 Best MONTHLY deal | $2.19 SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free! | $3.66 83% off + 6 months free on 2 year Max plan | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 yr plan + 2 months free |
The best VPNs for Japan
At Comparitech, we aim to bring you the most accurate and helpful VPN recommendations possible. To do this, we personally try out every VPN, subjecting them to rigorous real-world testing and seeing how they hold up against everyday tasks like streaming. The following reviews are based on those first-hand experiences.
Here is our list of the best VPNs for Japan:
1. NordVPN
Aug 2025
Works in JapanTested Aug 2025
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.9 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 10.0 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 7.5 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.9 / 10 |
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice VPN for Japan. It operates around 130 servers throughout Osaka and Tokyo, with clusters in more than 110 other countries around the world. One thing users will appreciate is that this VPN excels at accessing region-locked content; our testers were able to view a huge range of Japanese content as well as international services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer while connected.

To find out what sort of speeds users might expect, we tested out the provider’s Japan servers at various times of day using a virtual machine with a base connection speed of 250 Mbps. You can see the results below.
NordVPN got faster through the day, and had an average overall speed of 166.67 Mbps. This was the fastest provider overall — and more than 29 Mbps faster than the combined average speeds of the other tested VPNs. In short, this service is more than capable of streaming 4K video, torrenting, or making video calls.
Our research revealed that NordVPN is one of the most security-conscious providers on the market. It has a true zero-logs policy, has been audited multiple times in the past, and even managed to avoid exposing its users following server seizure — this truly is the gold standard, and very few other VPNs can claim to meet it.
But what about the apps themselves? For starters, they use uncrackable encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and a customizable kill switch. However, there are tons of advanced features too, such as automatic ad and tracker-blocking, censorship-beating obfuscated servers, and custom protocols (NordLynx and the newly-released NordWhisper). If you’re looking for full control over your connection, NordVPN is the provider for you.
A single subscription can secure up to 10 devices simultaneously. There are apps for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android, though you’ll have to manually configure this VPN to get it running on home routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want easy access to Japanese streaming content
- You want the fastest available speeds
- You want public wi-fi protection
- You want to bypass VPN blocks even in restrictive countries or networks
- You plan to access the dark web
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You do a lot of torrenting and want port forwarding
BEST VPN FOR JAPAN:NordVPN is our top choice. With a broad range of servers, including many in Japan, this is a good all-rounder option that works with Netflix and most other video streaming services. Great online privacy and security credentials. Offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
Here’s our full NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.8 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 9.9 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.5 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 7.2 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.1 / 10 |
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is the best budget VPN for people in Japan. It has 3,200 servers in 100 countries, and dozens spread across Tokyo, Japan. As such, it’s a great option for anyone looking to access Japanese or international streaming platforms while traveling. This VPN even works with stubborn services like Netflix, Hulu, and TV Tokyo! Best of all, there’s no connection limit, meaning you can watch on any device you own.

Now, this doesn’t mean much if it’s too slow to handle whatever tasks you’re planning. We performed multiple speed tests throughout the day to see how Surfshark held up. Let’s see the results:
Surfshark averaged 165.94 Mbps overall, and was the second fastest provider we tested. Even more impressive, there was just 6.59 Mbps of difference between its highest and lowest results! With speeds like these, you should have no issues watching 4K content, playing games, or torrenting, even if others in your home are using the internet at the same time.
From the moment you start using this VPN, you’ll notice how strong its focus on security is. The apps are packed with privacy tools, from automatic tracker-blocking to a feature that swaps your IP address periodically. This is backed up with 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, and an independently-verified no-logs policy. You can even pay in cryptocurrency if you’d like another layer of anonymity during registration.
Surfshark apps are available for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. It can be manually configured for use with internet routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want fast download speeds
- You want to share an account with friends and family
- You want a low-cost subscription
- You want a way of generating online personas
- You’d find static servers useful
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re uncomfortable using a provider based in a Nine Eyes country
BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is great value and allows you to stream your favorite shows no matter where you are in the world. With fast download speeds, a strong security focus, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s an excellent choice for anyone in Japan.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. Total VPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.5 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.4 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 9.4 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.1 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 6.0 / 10 |
Value for money: | 8.5 / 10 |
Website: TotalVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Total VPN has servers in Tokyo that are ideal for streaming Japanese TV. In our tests, the provider also worked with international platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney Plus.

Download speeds were great, even when connected to relatively distant servers in Japan (we’re based in the UK). Overall, Total VPN averaged an impressive 159.4 Mbps. This is more than fast enough for streaming Japanese TV in 4K or carrying out other activities like multiplayer gaming or torrenting.
Apps come with built-in leak protection and a kill switch that prevents internet access if the VPN connection drops out. Other features include split tunneling and a choice of connection protocols. The most interesting of these is Total VPN’s HYDRA protocol, which can disguise VPN traffic as regular web traffic to avoid detection.

Total VPN has servers in 85+ countries overall, including countries not typically offered by VPN providers — such as China and Russia. Reassuringly, the service uses strong encryption to protect user-generated traffic from potentially malicious third parties.
Annual subscriptions — which include free antivirus software — are particularly good value, and cost the monthly equivalent of $1.59. Total VPN apps are user-friendly and available for Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, and tvOS.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a low-cost solution with free antivirus bundled for extra online safety
- You need an easy-to-use app with minimal setup
- You appreciate the Hydra protocol to help evade VPN detection in strict countries and networks
- You want a VPN that works with a full range of region-blocked sites and platforms
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You need to protect more than five devices simultaneously
- You prefer a VPN with task-specific servers
FREE ANTIVIRUS:Total VPN subscriptions include TotalAV and Total AdBlock software. Fast servers are available in 85+ countries, including Japan. Works great for streaming and uses strong encryption. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Total VPN review.
4. ProtonVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 8.4 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.6 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 8.7 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 7.2 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.3 / 10 |
Website: www.ProtonVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ProtonVPN has roughly 13,000 servers spread throughout 122+ countries, with almost 80 in Japan alone. Not only that, it does a great job at flying under the radar, making it ideal for anyone hoping to securely access platforms like Netflix, NHK, or TV Tokyo. Whether you’d like to torrent anonymously or get a Japanese IP address from abroad, this VPN can make it happen. Plus, you can connect up to 10 devices at once!

Let’s talk about performance. You don’t need an ultra-fast connection for most tasks, though naturally, higher speeds are preferable, especially if you’re planning on downloading large files. We tested ProtonVPN’s servers in Japan three times over the course of a day to see how reliable they were:
The provider averaged 151.59 Mbps overall, which is ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as streaming UHD video or online gaming.
ProtonVPN was developed by the team behind ProtonMail, a secure email service beloved by privacy-minded activists and journalists the world over. From a professional standpoint, we can safely say that there are very few other services with this kind of pedigree.
User traffic is kept private thanks to this VPN’s powerful encryption, leak protection, and kill switch. However, with a brand as notable as Proton, it’s only natural that there’d be more advanced features built-in as well. These include split tunneling and port forwarding support, a speed booster, obfuscation, and servers designed to help you access the dark web. This service is based in Switzerland, a privacy-friendly country, and its no-logs policy has been rigorously audited, as have its apps and network infrastructure. This ensures you can completely trust the VPN.
ProtonVPN apps are available for macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and iOS. If you’d like to protect more than 10 devices, just follow the router setup guide on its website.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want easy access to the Tor network
- Security and privacy are important to you
- You do a lot of torrenting and want port forwarding
- You want a full range of advanced features
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re looking for the cheapest subscription
- You need obfuscation that works in China
FULLY FEATURED:ProtonVPN is highly secure and reliable. It is a superb option for torrenting and gaining watertight online privacy. Servers are available in over 122+ countries, and it works to access Japanese platforms from abroad. 24/7 live chat support is available on its website. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.
5. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.8 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.0 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 4.2 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.2 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 9.7 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.0 / 10 |
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is particularly well-suited to novice users thanks to its clean, minimalist apps and straightforward design. Users can get an IP address from 105 countries (including Japan) in as little as two clicks, and you’ll rarely have to try more than one server to find one that works with your favorite streaming service. Further, ExpressVPN has more Japanese locations than any of its rivals, with servers in Tokyo, Osaka, Shibuya, and Yokohama.

So how fast are ExpressVPN’s servers in Japan? To find out, we tested them at three times of day using a 250 Mbps connection:
ExpressVPN achieved an average download speed of 96.85 Mbps. Though not as fast as the others on this list, this is fast enough for comfortably streaming in 4K — providing you have a decent internet connection. Its consistency was extremely impressive too, with barely 6 Mbps of difference between its fastest and slowest test results.
ExpressVPN doesn’t store any traffic logs but does retain metadata about the date (not time) of connection, choice of server location, and total bandwidth used. This isn’t an issue because your individual IP address is not stored. For users who are still feeling skittish—you can sign up anonymously by using a burner email account and paying via Bitcoin—so none of the activity will ever be traced back to you.
This service uses effectively uncrackable 256-bit AES-CBC encryption backed up by a kill switch, DNS, and IPv6 leak protection, and built-in ad, tracker, and malware-blocking. If you visit a country with strict online censorship, ExpressVPN will automatically begin obfuscating your traffic too, so there’s no need to configure anything. In other words, you’re getting what you pay for regarding ease of access, privacy, and excellent security standards.
There are apps for Android and iOS, as well as desktop support for Linux, Windows, and macOS. Unlike most of its rivals, ExpressVPN even offers its own custom firmware for routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a smart DNS for a VPN-incompatible device
- You want access to several Japanese server locations
- You’d find always-on obfuscation useful
- You want to protect every device on a home network
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You want the fastest speeds available
PRIVACY-FIRST VPN:ExpressVPN is a reliable option in Japan. It has RAM-only servers in several Japanese locations and a dedicated app for routers. It comes with always-on obfuscation and it’s great for streaming. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee too.
Here’s our in-depth review of ExpressVPN.
6. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.8 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 8.1 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 8.2 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 6.5 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.3 / 10 |
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish has more than 2,400 servers and just recently added more than 50 new countries to its network. It operates around 70 servers throughout Tokyo and Osaka and if you’re hoping to stream Japanese content while on vacation, you’re in luck; we’ve had great results using this VPN with platforms like Hulu, Netflix, and Prime Video. What’s more, IPVanish stands out from the competition even more by having absolutely no connection limits.

The real question is whether IPVanish can deliver high enough speeds to cater to every user’s requirements. To find out, we tested its Japanese servers over the course of a day:
While it wasn’t the fastest service we saw, IPVanish achieved speeds consistently above 100 Mbps, which is still a great result. Its overall average of 145.46 Mbps makes it suitable for streaming, gaming, and other similarly demanding tasks.
According to industry standards, a VPN must use secure protocols, as-yet-uncrackable encryption, and additional protections like leak protection and a kill switch to be considered safe. IPVanish has all of these and more. For instance, it’s capable of obfuscating OpenVPN traffic, blocking online trackers outright, and connecting automatically when you use a public network. Best of all, IPVanish follows a strict no-logs policy and has been audited to prove it.
IPVanish also permits torrenting on all its servers, which is an ideal choice for Japan, given the extremely harsh torrenting laws in place (more on that at the bottom of this article). Its fast speeds and minimal downtime mean IPVanish works fantastically well with Kodi too.
The IPVanish basic subscription is great value, with a monthly price equivalent to $2.19. If you’re happy to spend a little more than that, you can opt an Advanced plan. This comes with a sandboxed secure browser and a generous 1TB of cloud storage.
There are apps for both iOS and Android, as well as desktop support for Windows and macOS. You can also manually install it on Linux systems or routers if you’d prefer.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want unlimited simultaneous device connections
- You want easy access to streaming services
- You’d find 1TB of cloud storage a useful bonus
- You like being able to choose between individual servers
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a VPN based outside the US
- You’re connecting from China
SECURE EVERY DEVICE:IPVanish has a large network of servers and handles multiple connections well. Easy to use and preferred by users who need high standards of internet privacy. Its annual plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
7. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.7 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 8.8 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.9 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 4.6 / 10 |
Value for money: | 7.2 / 10 |
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is an impressive VPN with easy-to-use apps that are ideal for beginners. It has a whopping 10,000+ servers spread across 100+ countries, including lots in Japan, so accessing local content shouldn’t be an issue. Of course, it’s also capable of unblocking plenty of international platforms too — you can even check which servers are best for a given service in the “For streaming” tab.

We carried out several speed tests while connected to the provider’s servers in Japan. You can see the results in the chart below.
CyberGhost was very quick, with an average download speed of 152.26 Mbps. This was faster than the combined average download speeds of the other tested providers. In practice, it’s fast enough to stream 4K video on six devices simultaneously.
The provider doesn’t store any user logs or data, and since it’s based in Romania, it isn’t legally required to store any data. CyberGhost uses 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. There’s also an internet kill switch included, which means web traffic will be halted if the connection drops unexpectedly. We really like the amount of flexibility that the smart rules feature offers: you can automatically connect to your favorite server and open up a specific program after just a minute of setup.
Apps are available for Android and iOS, as well as Linux, Windows, and macOS. Want to install it on your router? Just follow the manual setup instructions on CyberGhost’s website.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a VPN optimised for streaming
- You’re new to VPN software and want an easy-to-use provider
- You’re looking for a consistently fast provider
- You want a large server network across 100+ countries
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re connecting from China
- You might need to connect more than seven devices simultaneously
230+ JAPANESE SERVERS:CyberGhost has a vast global server network and a simple set-up ideal for beginners. Works well in Japan. Good option if you are looking for a fast, reliable connection and an easy-to-use interface. It comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Here’s our full review of CyberGhost.
8. PureVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 7.4 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 9.1 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 7.4 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 8.7 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 5.3 / 10 |
Value for money: | 6.4 / 10 |
Website: www.PureVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS
PureVPN is a budget-friendly VPN that is ideal for people in Japan. Its network comprises around 6,000 servers in 65 countries, and its speeds are generally very impressive. However, what really stands out to users is this VPN’s streaming ability; we’ve had success with tricky services like Netflix Japan, Hulu, Tokyo TV, TV Asahi, and NHK, to name a few. You can protect up to 10 devices simultaneously, making this already-affordable provider even better value.

To find out how fast its servers in Japan were, we carried out several speed tests over the course of a day. You can see the results in the chart below.
PureVPN performed solidly across all three tests. There was a slight dip in speed during the evening, but that’s to be expected, since this is when user numbers are highest. Overall, the provider averaged 135.16 Mbps.
Our team was impressed by the level of security on offer here. PureVPN blends AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks to keep your data safe at all times. There are also tools designed to protect you while on public Wi-Fi and to let you know if your details have been found in any major data breaches. Port forwarding is supported, but costs a little extra each month. Most importantly, this VPN refuses to log anything that could identify you.
The biggest drawback is the slow response time of the live chat support. That said, you’ll usually get a reply before too long, and in our experience, PureVPN tends to work pretty consistently, so you may not ever need assistance.
The VPN is compatible across multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Alternatively, it can be manually installed on most routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want a cheap, long-term subscription
- You want fast speeds
- You’d appreciate always-on obfuscation
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You want a built-in ad-blocker
- You need multi-hop servers
SUPERB VALUE:PureVPN is perfect for Japanese internet users wanting privacy and accessibility on a budget. It is easy to use and comes with all the features necessary to gain watertight online privacy. It has a 31-day money-back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.
Find out more in our PureVPN review.
9. Private Internet Access
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
VPN Ratings:
Overall score: | 6.2 / 10 |
---|---|
Ease of use: | 8.6 / 10 |
Japan speed: | 3.6 / 10 |
Security & privacy: | 9.3 / 10 |
Streaming access: | 3.0 / 10 |
Value for money: | 6.5 / 10 |
Website: www.PrivateInternetAccess.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Private Internet Access (PIA) takes the stress out of staying safe online. It boasts RAM-only servers in 91+ countries (including Japan), and even has some designed to unblock popular Japanese platforms. For instance, you’ll be able to stream Hulu, TVer, and NHK, as well as international platforms like BBC iPlayer. That’s not all: this provider recently ditched its connection limit and can now be used to secure every device you own simultaneously.
Now, every VPN will slow down your connection to some degree, which is why we wanted to see how much of an impact PIA had. To find out, we tested its Japanese servers three times. You can see the results in the chart below.
The first thing you’ll notice is that PIA’s speeds were highly variable. In our first test, it achieved an admirable 139.97 Mbps, but it struggled to maintain this level of performance, dropping almost 100 Mbps during our noon test. We should stress that even at its slowest, PIA remained fast enough for tasks like high-resolution streaming.
PIA is not only wallet-friendly but also offers a reliable service with strong security and privacy features. Despite being headquartered in the US, PIA is committed to user privacy and has a strict no-logs policy (one proven by multiple independent audits), so you can be sure your data stays private.
If you’re looking for customizable security, PIA is a fantastic choice. It supports OpenVPN and WireGuard, uses AES-256 encryption, and includes a kill switch, leak protection, and tracker-blocking. Advanced users can also change various port options, DNS settings, obfuscate their traffic, split tunnel, or set up automated connection rules. Need help? PIA’s 24/7 support team is always available to assist.
Private Internet Access has its own Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows apps. It even boasts a GUI-based Linux app and can be manually configured to work with a wide range of routers.
Buy this VPN if:
- You want to share an account with friends and family
- You want a low-cost subscription
- You want an easy-to-use app
Don’t buy this VPN if:
- You’re uncomfortable using a US-based service
- You want consistently fast speeds
EASY TO USE:Private Internet Access is user-friendly, stores no logs, offers great VPN security and unblocks most streaming services. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Private Internet Access review.
Recent VPN Product Updates
Our continuous VPN provider tracking ensures recommendations reflect the most current features. Here’s what’s new:
NordVPN
- Network dependability enhanced through smart auto-reconnection features (June 2025)
- Team productivity boosted via Meshnet’s streamlined drag-and-drop sharing (June 2025)
- Personal security monitoring expanded to track 50 email addresses with Dark Web Monitor (June 2025)
- Malware protection advanced through Threat Protection Pro’s sophisticated defense systems (May 2025)
- Linux user experience transformed with graphical interface introduction (May 2025)
Surfshark
- Technological breakthrough delivered via Nexus platform’s software-defined networking (February 2025)
- Traffic control excellence achieved through Bypasser’s comprehensive platform support (April 2025)
- Infrastructure expansion completed with seven new dedicated IP destinations: Istanbul, Warsaw, Las Vegas, and others (April 2025)
- Linux installation simplified through Flatpak package manager adoption (October 2024)
- iOS platform capabilities augmented with Bypasser feature for traffic management (October 2024)
Total VPN
- Apple TV market penetration achieved through tvOS application
- Android security strengthened via “always on” killswitch implementation
- iOS and macOS efficiency enhanced through “connect on demand” automation
- Speed optimization delivered via WireGuard protocol universal deployment
Proton VPN
- Home entertainment secured through Apple TV app development (October 2024)
- Internet protocol modernization via IPv6 support in browser extensions and Linux client (2024)
- Instant access facilitated through Android guest mode without account creation (2024)
- Content access multiplied through support for approximately 100 streaming platforms (Spring 2025)
ExpressVPN
- Next-generation hardware support via Windows Copilot+ device compatibility (September 2024)
- Digital privacy enhanced through Identity Defender service for US market (November 2024)
- Customer journey improved via account deletion process streamlining (March 2025)
IPVanish
- Premium tier introduced with Advanced plan, featuring Secure Browser and cloud storage (October 2024)
- Entertainment device coverage expanded to Apple TV, Google TV, and Vision Pro (December 2024)
- Proactive protection added via QR code security scanning functionality (April 2025)
How to use a VPN in Japan
Don’t worry if you’ve never used a VPN before, the process is quite simple. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be browsing securely in no time.
Here’s how to use a VPN for Japan:
- Sign up for a VPN. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Download and install the VPN app making sure to get the correct version for your device.
- Connect to a server in the location of your choice. For example, if you want to access Japanese content securely, connect to a Japanese server. If you want to access US content from Japan, choose a US server.
- Connect to the website or streaming platform you wish to access. You should now be able to access geo-restricted content and browse the internet with total freedom.
- If you have trouble accessing the services you want, try clearing your browser’s cookies and cache and reloading the page. Alternatively, try a different server or contact your VPN’s customer support team for more help.
Free Japan VPN options
It’s possible that you’ll find a free VPN that works for you in Japan. However, we don’t recommend them because free VPNs have several drawbacks.
For example, if you want to perform data-intensive tasks such as streaming video, gaming, torrenting, or VoiP, then a free VPN is not going to meet your needs. This is because free VPN servers are often under-optimized and over-subscribed, making them slow and sluggish.
If you want to unblock content in another country, you might also be out of luck. This is because free VPNs don’t have wide server networks, so you may not find one in the location you want. Plus, they often leak user data, making them unsuitable for unblocking and leaving users frustrated.
They are also not great for privacy. Not only do some free VPN servers leak your data, but some free services even infect your device with adware. They will inject ads into your browser as a revenue stream. Another way they make money is through the collection and harvesting of user data to sell to third parties. Not every free VPN does this, but it is becoming a more common practice.
There are some free VPNs you can trust, but these are often free versions of the premium services we list above. For more information, check out our free VPN recommendations. If you want a VPN without paying, you can always take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee that many premium providers offer. You will need to pay upfront, but you can claim this back if you apply for a refund in the first 30 days.
Japanese internet freedom
Japan’s internet is ranked by Freedom House as “free” with the advocacy body noting that currently, there are no restrictions on social media apps, access to content, or clampdowns on popular bloggers. This is strengthened by Japan’s constitution, which protects all forms of speech and prohibits censorship.
But national security concerns may cause a rethink at the federal level. In 2013, lawmakers in Japan passed the “Act on the Protection of Specially Designated Secrets”. The statutes ensconced in the act criminalize leaking and publishing national secrets regardless of intent or content. Freedom House notes that this has potential ramifications for journalists, whistleblowers, and civil society watchdogs.
The United Nations Human Rights Committee agrees that the legislation is vague and broad when it comes to defining the exact limitations of secretive matters. Individuals caught violating these parameters will be subject to high criminal penalties and lead to self-censorship by journalists and human rights defenders.
Related: A beginner’s guide to online censorship.
The laws came about after a recommendation by Japan’s communication ministry to start regulating cyberspace. The guidelines sought to rein in influential news sites, subjecting them to the same kind of regulations that bind physical newspapers and broadcast television channels. The report, titled “Final Report on a Comprehensive Legal System for Communications and Broadcasting,” stated that “there is a need for an active effort from the government…as it is difficult for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to individually make judgments regarding concrete harmfulness”.
Augmenting the atmosphere of fear is the country’s crackdown on media freedoms in the East Asian country. In 2016, Foreign Policy reported on the Japanese government’s forceful takedown of popular voices.
Three outspoken television anchors were mysteriously removed from their jobs, with the general perception that the dismissals were orchestrated by the government, although there is no independent method of verifying this claim. The country’s largest liberal newspaper, Asahi Shimbun, was also forced to be subdued.
Such developments compelled the UN to carry out a fact-finding mission in the country, during which it met with journalists, educators, and government officials. At the end of the mission, the global body declared that the “independence of press in Japan is facing serious threats”.
“Across a range of areas, I learned of deep and genuine concern that trends are moving sharply and alarmingly in the wrong direction. This is especially acute in the context of media independence,” added David Kaye, UN’s special rapporteur.
Related: 11 privacy steps every journalist should take to protect themselves and their sources.
The day after the report, Japan’s ranking in press freedom by Paris-based Reporters Without Borders slid 11 places to 72 out of 180 countries surveyed.
Foreign Policy added that Japan’s spy agency, the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office, spied on this particular UN mission by tracking the movements of a local lawyer who assisted the fact-finding team. These are troubling developments for a country that has prided itself on being the largest democracy in the region and may provide a snapshot of what lies ahead.
Having said that, it’s important to state that there haven’t yet been any official arrests of media personnel under this new legislation. There is, however, a maximum penalty of ten years’ imprisonment for those found guilty of revealing state secrets.
Torrenting in Japan
Japanese citizens are subject to some of the harshest anti-torrenting laws on the planet, with violations running a huge 10 million Yen fine and up to two years in prison.
Users on sites like Reddit and Quora do suggest that downloading torrents in Japan won’t land you anywhere near the maximum penalties in most cases. But why take these risks? There were 27 people arrested in 2013 after being caught uploading manga, video games, anime, and music videos without the explicit permission of copyright holders, so there is precedent.
If your explicit aim while browsing the web in Japan is to download torrents, we suggest you read through our guide of the best VPNs for P2P filesharing and protect yourself thoroughly.
Using VPN in Japan: FAQs
Are VPNs legal in Japan?
VPNs are legal in Japan and, indeed, almost every country in the world. A VPN is a valid way to secure your online activity as well as access geo-restricted websites and services from home while you’re traveling abroad. You’ll have no trouble using a VPN in Japan, and because there’s no blocking of VPNs, it’s possible to download and install your preferred VPN while in the country (unlike in China).
Of course, you should still be careful about what you do online while using a VPN. Some activities (such as torrenting copyrighted material) remain illegal regardless of the use of a VPN.
Disclaimer: Although we’ve spent hours researching this topic, we are not legal experts. As such, nothing we’ve said above should be taken as legal advice. We encourage you to consult local laws or perhaps even seek a professional’s opinion before attempting to use a VPN in Japan.
How to access Netflix Japan via VPN?
If you’d like to access Netflix Japan while traveling abroad, all you have to do is connect to one of your VPN’s Japanese servers. If you’re having difficulty, we recommend trying a different server or contacting your VPN’s customer support team directly for more help.
Is using a Japanese proxy server better than a VPN from Japan?
With a VPN from Japan or a Japanese proxy server, you can browse anonymously because you’re using a different IP address that isn’t tied to your actual location. Further, you can use either to unblock geo-restricted websites and services. However, only a VPN encrypts all of your internet traffic. With a VPN, you can secure yourself from hackers as well as snoopers (such as your ISP), making it the better option for protecting your privacy.
In which Japanese cities does NordVPN have servers?
Of its over 6,000 servers, NordVPN offers approximately 130 servers in Japan. We spoke with NordVPN, and they confirmed that their Japanese servers are located in Tokyo and Osaka. By connecting to one of these servers, you’ll have a Japanese IP address. NordVPN’s website provides more information on their VPN servers in Japan. You can also see the full list of server locations via the NordVPN apps.
Can I get arrested if I torrent anime in Japan?
As discussed above, torrenting copyrighted material is a crime, and so, technically, you could be arrested. In reality, though, Japanese law enforcement is more interested in catching the people who upload this kind of content rather than those who download it.
Still, with punishments ranging from a ¥10,000,000 ($91,000 USD) fine to a two-year jail sentence, we strongly advise against downloading copyrighted material without the permission of the copyright holder.