The 7 best VPNs for Japan to keep your internet use private

Japan is one of the most wired countries in the world, with an eye-watering 92 percent of its citizens connected to the web. Internet censorship and government surveillance aren’t considered to be massive problems just yet, but circumstances and societal attitudes are slowly shifting. VPN services are popular in the country, both for local residents as well as the two million tourists who arrive in the country each month.

Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN is a handy piece of software that bypasses barriers to restricted worldwide content and maintains your privacy and anonymity for your online activities by encrypting all the internet traffic to and from your device. It does so by routing the traffic via an intermediary server in a location of the user’s choosing.

We go into a lot of detail about each of the best VPN providers for Japan below, but if you don’t want to read the whole article, here is a summary of our top picks.

We found these to be the best VPNs for Japan:

1. NordVPN: Our #1 choice for Japan. Unblocks most streaming content at good speeds with no compromises on security and privacy. Has over 130 servers in Japan. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: A security-focused, budget-friendly provider with a no logs policy, good speeds, no connection limits and exceptional unblocking ability.
3. ExpressVPN: Impressively fast servers are able to unblock most geo-restricted content in Japan and elsewhere with ease. Great range of online security and privacy features.
4. CyberGhost: Good for beginners, user-friendly, with strong security and decent streaming speeds. Works with most streaming platforms in Japan and elsewhere.
5. IPVanish: Torrent-friendly VPN with good speeds and strong security. A favorite among Kodi users.
6. 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.
7. Hotspot Shield: A fast, torrenting-friendly provider with good unblocking capabilities and a wide range of online security features.

Best VPNs for Japan – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Japan.

The Best VPNs for Japan

There are plenty of VPNs on the market, but they don’t all provide the same level of service. In order to find the best VPNs, we looked for the following criteria:

• Speed and reliability of service
• Strong encryption parameters
• No usage logs
• Accesses geo-restricted content with ease (Netflix, Hulu, etc.)
• Server locations in Japan
• Apps for Android and iOS
• Above-average speeds compared to other VPNs

Later in this article, we will provide additional information about how we test and recommend VPNs. But for now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the cut.

Here is our list of the best VPNs for Japan:

1. NordVPN

Jun 2023 Works in JapanTested Jun 2023

NordVPN is our top choice VPN for Japan. It has a true zero-logs policy, as it holds no data about user sessions, traffic, or timestamps. Authorities have tried clamping down on it in the past by sending multiple requests for information, but the policy made it impossible to comply. Nord’s servers were also raided in one instance, but there was no incriminating data stored hence thwarting attempts.

The company operates 5400+ servers in 59 countries, making it a sturdy choice for an entire range of web activity. 130+ of these are located in Japan itself. Hence finding a suitable connection shouldn’t be an issue.

There are also servers optimized for anti-DDoS, video streaming networks, double VPN, Tor over VPN, and dedicated IP—ideal for video streaming, strong encryption, and stringent privacy. It’s also able to circumvent the Netflix VPN ban with ease, unlock content from Hulu and BBC iPlayer, and it supports torrenting.

NordVPN servers encrypt internet traffic via the 256-bit AES protocol by default and uses 2,048-bit SSL keys. DNS leak protection is enabled. A single subscription grants access to six devices, with support for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, and Android.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR JAPAN:NordVPN is our top choice. With a broad range of servers including a few 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 review of NordVPN.

2. Surfshark

works in japanTested Jun 2023

Surfshark doesn’t keep any personally identifiable information but if you’re looking for even greater anonymity, you can pay in Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Ripple. It also offers 256-bit encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch, as well as a NoBorders feature that allows you to bypass country-wide internet blocking.

This service has around 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, allowing it to securely access a wide range of online services, including Netflix US, Hulu, and TV Tokyo. Its fast connection times are ideal for lag-free streaming, even at high resolutions, plus Surfshark allows unlimited torrenting on all of its servers. Better still, there’s no connection limit, meaning you can watch on any device you own.

Surfshark apps are available for iOS, Android, Windows, MacOS, and Linux. It can be manually configured for use with internet routers.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark is cheap and allows you to stream your favorite shows no matter where you are in the world. With decent 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. ExpressVPN

Works in JapanTested Jun 2023

ExpressVPN ranks highly on our list of the top VPN services for its reliable speed and user-first approach. There’s a clean, simple, and minimalist design, and connecting to the 3,000+ servers spread across 94 countries is quick and efficient. There are servers located in Japan—ideal for residents of the country traveling abroad— but the company doesn’t specify how many exactly.

It 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.

Military-grade encryption protocols are a robust 256-bit AES-CBC with the utilization of both HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy. An internet kill switch temporarily halts all web traffic if the connection drops unexpectedly. Hence, you’re getting what you pay for regarding ease of access, privacy, and excellent security standards.

ExpressVPN is one of the few VPN services out there that works to access content on Netflix with ease. It’s also compatible with Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer as well as supporting torrents with great performance.

There are apps for Android and iOS, as well as desktop support for Linux, Windows, and MacOS.

ExpressVPN speed test data

PRIVACY-FIRST VPN:ExpressVPN is a reliable option in Japan. It has a vast server network that is optimized for high-speed connections. Hard to beat on privacy and security. Great for streaming. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee too.

Here’s our in-depth review of ExpressVPN.

4. CyberGhost

Works in JapanTested Jun 2023

CyberGhost is an impressive VPN, easy-to-use apps ideal for beginners. It has a whopping 9,000+ servers spread across 90 countries, including over 100 in Japan, so accessing local content shouldn’t be an issue. The provider is based in Romania and doesn’t store any user logs or data. It is subject to Romanian laws, which don’t impose data retention of any kind.

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.

Apps are available for both Android, Linux, and iOS, as well as desktop support for Windows and macOS.

CyberGhost speed test data

EASY FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost has a simple set up 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.

5. IPVanish

Works in JapanTested Jun 2023

IPVanish doesn’t store any user details except when an account is registered for the first time. After that, all browsing sessions and choices of servers are kept hidden. It uses 246-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048 key exchange with perfect forward secrecy.

There’s an internet kill switch included, which means the company will temporarily block all traffic to and from your device if the connection drops unexpectedly. Servers are optimized for speed and security—there are over 2,000 of them spread across 50+ countries, including 20 in Japan.

IPVanish is capable of accessing content on Netflix US, but not Hulu, and we do not recommend it for BBC iPlayer. There are apps for both iOS and Android, as well as desktop support for Windows and MacOS.

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). It’s fast speed and minimal downtime mean IPVanish works fantastically well with Kodi too.

IPVanish speed test data

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. Can’t unblock as many streaming services as some of its rivals. Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

6. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a top choice when it comes to maintaining privacy in Japan. With its vast network of 29,000+ servers across 84 countries, you can browse and stream content while keeping your online activities under wraps.

PIA is not only wallet-friendly but also offers a reliable service with strong security and privacy features. With support for up to 10 simultaneous connections, you can share the benefits with friends and family, ensuring everyone’s online privacy is protected.

Despite being headquartered in the U.S., PIA is committed to user privacy and has a strict no-logs policy, so you can be sure your data stays private.

PIA utilizes AES encryption to secure your connection, keeping your data safe from prying eyes. Additional features like split tunneling and a kill switch give you even more control over your online privacy.

With PIA, you can unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, making it perfect for users in Japan who want to access a world of content. Need help? PIA’s 24/7 customer support is always available to assist.

Give Private Internet Access a try with its 30-day money-back guarantee, and experience a secure and private internet connection while in Japan.

PIA Speed test data

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.

7. Hotspot Shield

works in japanTested Jun 2023

Hotspot Shield keeps some aggregate logs but deletes all personally identifiable information once your session ends. This VPN comes with a range of advanced security features, including 256-bit encryption, protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks, and a kill switch that prevents you from accidentally browsing unprotected should your connection drop. It also offers automatic Wi-Fi protection and split-tunneling features.

This service operates around 1,800 servers in more than 80 countries, including Japan. It doesn’t limit your speeds or bandwidth in any way, which means it’s an excellent choice for torrenting or streaming. Better still, Hotspot Shield works to securely access platforms like Netflix US, TV Tokyo, and BBC iPlayer abroad, so there are very few limits on what you can watch.

Hotspot Shield has apps for Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS.

Hotspot Shield speed test data

FAST AND SECURITY-CONSCIOUS:Hotspot Shield offers high-speed connections and powerful online security features, plus it accesses a variety of popular streaming services from abroad. As if that wasn’t enough, this VPN comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Hotspot Shield review.

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Finding the best VPNs for Japan – our methodology

There are hundreds of VPNs on the market, but they were not all created equal. Many are too slow to perform tasks like streaming. Others lack the security features you need to gain online privacy. This can make choosing a reliable VPN hard, and it is common for consumers to end up frustrated by a service that is a waste of money.

To prevent consumers from making mistakes, we thoroughly test VPNs to ensure they are up to standard. Our VPN reviewers do this using a carefully devised scientific testing methodology. You can find out more by following the link, but we have included a list of important features we used to curate this list below:

1. Servers in Japan. Whether you are in Japan or traveling abroad, you may need to access Japanese services and platforms that are region-locked. VPNs that have Japanese servers let you prevent tracking and surveillance even when using local Japanese services.
2. A global server network. Whether you want to stream Netflix US, the UK’s BBC iPlayer, or use some other international service, a VPN with a wide choice of servers will help. We recommend VPNs that have a large global server network to ensure you can always access anything that interests you.
3. A no-logs policy. This ensures that the VPN never tracks or harvests any information about what you do while connected. This is important because a no logs VPN will not use your data and cannot be forced to share your browsing habits with government snoops.
4. Strong encryption. A VPN is only ever as strong as its encryption implementation. Unfortunately, not all VPNs implement their VPN protocol to the highest possible standards. To ensure your safety, we only recommend VPNs for Japan that have reliable encryption.
5. Advanced VPN features. Leading VPN providers offer value for money and versatility by providing apps for all platforms that come with useful features. We recommend services that have DNS leak protection, a kill switch, obfuscation, and other advanced features, including Smart DNS, double-hop connections, split tunneling, and more.
6. Superb customer care. Being able to contact your VPN to ask for help is important. That is why we recommend VPNs with live chat and email support you can contact at any time of day.

Free VPN options

It is possible to avoid paying for a VPN and opt for a free version. Such services are heavily advertised on the internet, so a bit of digging around on Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo will do the trick.

But there’s a catch. Free VPN products come with major limitations on things like server locations, encryption standards, speed and stability, and bandwidth caps. You’re not paying to use them, so don’t expect world-class service that can access blocked websites and streaming services.

At the same time, such companies have to make money too to pay for server space, technical teams, and general expenses. They do so by aggressively tracking your browsing history, inserting cookies, and attempting to sell your data to third-party advertisers.

It’s likely that there will also be tons of invasive advertisements and pesky pop-up windows. Malware’s lurking around, too, adding to the potential list of problems. It is a good reminder of the fact that when the product is free, you usually end up being the product.

Torrenting in Japan

Japan has some of the harshest anti-torrenting laws in the world, with penalties on violators, an extremely stiff 10 million yen in fines, and a two-year prison sentence.

Forums on Reddit and Quora suggest that downloading torrents won’t land you in a legal quagmire, but you definitely run the risk of arrest if caught uploading/seeding such files.

Indeed, 27 people were arrested in 2013 after being caught uploading manga, video games, anime, and music videos without the explicit permission of copyright holders.

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.

Japanese internet freedoms

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 that provided assistance to the fact-finding team. These are troubling developments for a country that has prided itself as 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.

Using VPN in Japan: FAQs