7 Best VPNs for Watching Japanese Netflix from Abroad

If you try and watch Netflix Japan while traveling abroad you will find the movies and shows to be very different. This is because Netflix only lets you see the content library of the country you are in. Luckily by using a VPN for Netflix Japan you can regain access to all the shows you can watch back home.

Netflix launched in Japan in 2015, and as of 2020, Netflix Japan’s catalog is one of the largest of any country, according to uNoGS. In particular, Netflix users in Japan get access to tons of anime that’s off-limits to subscribers in other countries. And anime that eventually reaches the global market often appears on Japanese Netflix first, such as Violet Evergarden.

If you are traveling abroad in the US or anywhere else in the world you can regain access to Netflix Japan back home with the help of a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

If you don’t have the time to get into all the details about the top VPNs to watch Netflix from Japan here’s a list and summary of our top picks:

1. NordVPN: Our top choice for Japanese Netflix! Has very fast speeds, a huge range of security features, a no-logs policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: The best budget option for Netflix Japan. Quick and highly versatile, with strong security and privacy features. No connection limits.
3. ExpressVPN: Super fast servers in Japan, works with Netflix and most other popular video streaming services. Great privacy and security credentials.
4. CyberGhost: Fastest speeds tested. Over 8,000 servers in 90+ countries. Strict no-logs service with up to seven simultaneous connections allowed.
5. IPVanish: Worked with Netflix Japan and Netflix US in testing. Very fast server speeds for streaming in 4K. Secure all of your devices at the same time.
6. PrivateVPN: Small provider with a few servers in Japan. Can access Netflix Japan from anywhere.
7. Atlas VPN: High-speed servers for streaming Netflix Japan, Prime Video, and more. Unlimited simultaneous connections. MultiHop servers for extra security.

The easiest and most reliable way to watch Netflix abroad is with a VPN. Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN encrypts all of a device’s internet traffic and routes it through an intermediary server in a location of your choosing. By connecting to a VPN server in Japan, you can browse the web as if you lived in the country and access tons of Japan-only websites, apps, services, and content.

Netflix has caught onto this workaround, however, and actively blocks connections from known VPN servers. If you attempt to access Netflix Japan from a blacklisted server, you’ll receive an error message:

“Whoops, something went wrong… Streaming error. You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy. Please turn off any of these services and try again.”

Only a small handful of VPN providers know how to reliably bypass the ban, while the rest remain locked out. We took the trouble to test several providers and find out which VPNs work with Netflix Japan. Note we only tested the desktop apps with Netflix in a browser, and cannot vouch for whether or not they work with Netflix apps on smartphones, tablets, and media consoles.

Here’s how to watch Japanese Netflix from anywhere:

1. Sign up for a Netflix account if you don’t yet have one.
2. Pick a VPN provider from our list below. For speed and reliability our first choice is NordVPN.
3. Connect to a server back home in Japan.
4. Open the Netflix website or app as you normally would. You should be automatically redirected to the Japanese version.
5. Login and start enjoying Japanese Netflix from any location!

Best VPNs for Netflix 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 Netflix Japan.

Best VPNs for Watching Japanese Netflix

Our list of the best VPN service providers for Netflix Japan is based on the following criteria:

• Can securely access Netflix Japan
• Fast connection speeds
• No-logs policy and strong security
• Unlimited bandwidth and data
• Quick and competent customer support

Later in this article, we will provide additional information about each how we test and recommend VPNs. For now, use our detailed summaries to choose between our top picks:

1. NordVPN

May 2023 works with netflix japanTested May 2023

NordVPN offers access to more than 80 Japanese servers and easily accesses Netflix Japan from abroad. What’s more, this service is the fastest we’ve tested, which all but guarantees you a flawless streaming experience. Should you have any problems, 24/7 support is on-hand over live chat and email.

There are all kinds of security features built-in, including 256-bit encryption, DNS and WebRTC leak protection, and a customizable kill switch. Additionally, this VPN offers special obfuscated servers designed to give you even greater online privacy. NordVPN is a zero-logs provider and can’t divulge details of your activities under any circumstances.

NordVPN apps are available for iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux. Manual configuration is required for use with supported routers.

NordVPN speed test data

BEST VPN FOR NETFLIX JAPAN:NordVPN is our first choice. It’s extremely fast and doesn’t compromise on security. Works with Netflix and similar platforms with ease. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out the full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

works with netflix japanTested May 2023

Surfshark has more than 3,200 servers in 65+ countries, Japan included. This service boasts excellent streaming speeds and works with not just Netflix, but also major platforms like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. VPN speeds vary from one server to another but are generally fast enough for lag-free HD streaming. Users can connect as many devices as they like from one account.

Security is one of Surfshark’s strong points. It offers 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and leak protection, as well as automatic ad-blocking and malware-scanning. There’s even a NoBorders mode that can help you get around especially stubborn geo-blocking. This VPN doesn’t keep any logs that could identify you, and offers 24/7 support over live chat.

Surfshark provides macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux apps. It can be manually installed on select network routers.

Surfshark speed test data

BEST BUDGET VPN:Surfshark manages to provide impressive speed, security, and unblocking ability while remaining affordable. Better still, this service comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read the full Surfshark review.

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3. ExpressVPN

works with netflix japanTested May 2023

ExpressVPN has multiple servers in Japan and not all of them can access Netflix in the country, but some do. We don’t want to draw undue attention to them here, suffice to say you can find the correct server quickly by either contacting the 24/7 live chat support or experimenting with a bit of trial and error. Speeds are fast and reliable enough to stream in HD. ExpressVPN is a veteran when it comes to using streaming sites, including Netflix US, HBO Go, HBO Now, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

You’ll also have industry-leading security standards, a smart DNS service, and over 1,500 servers in 94 countries at your disposal. The company stores no activity or IP logs.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and certain wifi routers.

ExpressVPN speed test data

SECURE AND PRIVATE:ExpressVPN is a solid choice. Reliably accesses Netflix Japan and most other popular streaming services with exceptional speeds for buffer-free HD viewing and total security and privacy. Try it risk-free with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full ExpressVPN review.

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4. CyberGhost

works with netflix japanTested May 2023

CyberGhost has the largest server network of any VPN in this post. This consists of approximately 8,000 servers in over 90 countries. When it comes to Japan, there are over 50 servers available and this means that there are plenty of IP addresses capable of unblocking Netflix Japan. Better still, CyberGhost is one of the fastest VPNs tested, averaging speeds of 548 Mbps in tests.

Aside from being able to stream Netflix lag and buffer-free in 4K, you can secure your browsing experience. CyberGhost does this through security features including 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, and protection from DNS and IPv6 leaks. It also operates a strict no-logs policy to protect your privacy. Once signed up, you can connect up to seven devices. You’ll also have 24/7 access to live chat support.

CyberGhost apps are available for desktop (Windows, Mac, and Linux) and mobile (Android and iOS). Amazon Fire TV and Android TV apps are also offered, as are Chrome and Firefox browser extensions. Use with routers requires manual setup.

CyberGhost speed test data

FASTEST SPEEDS:CyberGhost has fast, unthrottled connections for streaming Netflix Japan lag and buffer-free. Some 8,000 servers in 90+ countries. No-logs VPN with 24/7 support. Connect seven devices at once. 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full CyberGhost review.

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5. IPVanish

works with netflix japanTested May 2023

IPVanish has become one of the fastest VPNs on the market thanks to its implementation of the WireGuard protocol. The advantage of this is that you’ll be able to stream in 4K without having to contend with frustrating performance issues. It successfully accessed Netflix Japan and Netflix USA in testing. You can also benefit from the fact that IPVanish doesn’t limit the number of devices you can connect simultaneously.

Upon connecting to an IPVanish server, your internet traffic is routed through a 256-bit AES encrypted tunnel, securing it from cybercriminals. Data is further safeguarded with DNS leak protection and a kill switch feature. A zero-logs service, IPVanish provides live chat and email support around the clock should you need help. However, you’re unlikely to have issues thanks to the very user-friendly apps.

IPVanish apps can be found for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Amazon Fire TV. Manual setup is required in order to use IPVanish with Linux or a compatible router.

IPVanish speed test data

RAPIDLY IMPROVING:IPVanish has a growing server network and now offers faster speeds for streaming 4K content. Securely access Netflix US and Netflix Japan. Connect all of your devices at once. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full IPVanish review.

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6. PrivateVPN

works with netflix japanTested May 2023

PrivateVPN hasn’t been around as long as its rivals, but it certainly deserves its spot on the list. It’s one of the most capable VPNs for Netflix, bypassing the firewall in nearly every country we’ve tested it in. We easily streamed Psycho-Pass in HD when connected to the Japan server. PrivateVPN also unblocks Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer, among others. It scored well in our speed tests and is as reliable as they come.

PrivateVPN doesn’t skimp on privacy either. You’ll get 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy. The company doesn’t store any logs of user activity or personally identifiable metadata about their use of the service. A single subscription allows you to connect up to six devices at one time.

Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

PrivateVPN speed test data

SPEEDY AND SECURE:PrivateVPN is extremely fast, security-conscious, and able to access Netflix Japan. and security. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. Atlas VPN

works with netflix japanTested May 2023

Atlas VPN stands out for its fast server speeds, making it highly suitable for streaming. Aside from Netflix Japan, it works with the likes of Disney+ and HBO Max. There’s absolutely no bandwidth throttling so streaming is stress-free. Overall, servers are available across dozens of locations. However, one of the main benefits is that Atlas VPN allows unlimited simultaneous connections.

An Atlas VPN subscription comes with plenty of security and privacy protection. This includes 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. If you need even more than this, connect to a MultiHop server for two layers of encryption. On top of this, Atlas VPN blocks ads, trackers, and malware and doesn’t keep any logs by which you can be identified. Need help? Live chat and email support is available.

To use Atlas VPN, download a Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS app. Alternatively, you can manually configure this VPN to work with Linux or your wireless router.

Atlas VPN speed test data

UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:Atlas VPN is particularly fast for streaming Netflix Japan. Securely access Disney+, HBO Max, and more. Unlimited simultaneous connections. MultiHop servers for extra security. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full Atlas VPN review.

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Netflix Japan VPN – testing methodology

There are hundreds of consumer-facing VPNs available, but they do not all work to stream Netflix Japan. Most VPNs are too slow for HD streaming without buffering, and many VPN servers have been blocked by Netflix. This means that you must pick a service carefully.

At Comparitech, we understand how easy it is to be tricked by the claims made on VAPN websites. VPNs often claim to be the most secure, fastest, and best VPN for privacy. The reality is that these claims are overblown.

To make sure we only ever recommend reliable VPNs with robust features, and well-designed apps, we always test the market.

Our reviewers tested dozens of market-leading VPNs using a specific VPN testing methodology. This allows us to check that the VPN works with Netflix Japan (and other international platforms), and has trustworthy data practices – as well as apps that have the features you need.

Below, you can see the main features we looked for when recommending the best VPNs for Netflix Japan:

• Fast servers in Japan. We checked that the VPN not only has Japanese servers but also that those servers work with Netflix and other popular Japanese streaming platforms and TV channels.
• Strong IP and DNS leak protection. A reliable VPN provides privacy by proxying your DNS requests and protecting your data in an encrypted tunnel. We check for DNS and IP leaks that would betray your privacy and cause the VPN to work incorrectly.
• Reliable encryption. A VPN is only as safe as the encryption it implements. We look for VPNs that include reliable VPN protocols with well-implemented AES encryption.
• Apps for all platforms. To provide good value for money, your VPN should have apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS – and other devices such as Smart TVs, firesticks, or routers. Plus, we only recommend services that also have a multiple simultaneous connection allowance so you can install the VPN on at least devices.
• Great customer care. Using a VPN is easy but you never know when you might have an issue or want advice. Our recommendation makes it easy by providing email and live chat support. This means you can find out which server is optimized fr Netflix at any time of day.
• Protection against snooping and hackers. We know that a versatile VPN is good for torrenting, bypassing censorship, and using services blocked by invasive governments. However, to do these things securely you will want access to advanced privacy features like a kill-switch and obfuscation.

Can I use a free VPN to watch Netflix Japan?

We’ve heard of a few Japanese proxies that can access Netflix Japan, but the free ones are likely too congested or unreliable to stream in anything resembling decent quality. At any rate, you’ll need to be able to read Japanese to register and use them. Free VPN services generally lack the bandwidth to stream video without tons of buffering, and many of them cap data at a hard limit.

We generally recommend avoiding free VPN services. Even if you don’t have to fork over payment details, free VPN services are not charitable entities. They often make a profit collecting data from your browsing habits and selling it to third-party advertising agencies. Some inject ads into your web browser, while others even carry malware payloads to infect your device.

In any case, it’s unlikely that a free VPN has the resources to reliably bypass Netflix’s firewall.

VPNs that don’t work with Japanese Netflix

The following VPNs do not work with Netflix Japan, either according to our tests or by their own admission.

• Zenmate
• PureVPN
• LiquidVPN
• Hola
• SaferVPN
• Tunnelbear
• CactusVPN
• Private Internet Access (PIA)
• Buffered
• Keenow
• HideMyAss

English subtitles and dubbing on Netflix Japan

If you don’t speak Japanese, finding subtitles or dubbed voices for anime on Netflix Japan can be a bit hit and miss. Subtitles are more common than dubbing, for sure, but many titles have neither. We suggest you take advantage of a VPN’s free trial or money-back guarantee period to watch Netflix Japan and check to see whether subtitles or dubbing is available for the show you want to watch.

While not comprehensive, here’s a list of anime on Netflix Japan with English subtitles or dubbing, according to Aerial Biscuits:

• 5cm per second
• Blame
• Children who chase lost voices
• Devilman Crybaby
• Durarara!
• Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
• Ghost in the Shell Innocence
• Gunslinger Girls
• Kill la Kill
• Little Witch Academia
• Magi: Adventures of Sinbad
• Mushishi
• Sword Art Online
• The Garden of Words
• The Irregular at Magic High School
• Tokyo Ghoul
• Violet Evergarden
• Voices of a Distant Star
• Wakfu

Still seeing the Netflix proxy error? Try this:

If you signed up for one of the VPNs we recommended above but still see the Netflix proxy error when you try to stream video, try the following:

1. Log out of any Google accounts, including Chrome browser. Google caches your IP address and can reveal your true location to Netflix.
2. Disable GPS and any other location-based services on your device and browser. If you’ve given Netflix permission to use your location in the past, you’ll need to disable the permission in your browser settings.
3. Clear your browser cookies, cache, and temp files. We’ve got tutorials for both clearing your cache and clearing your cookies for all the major operating systems.
4. Disable IPv6. This is mainly for Windows 10 users, but may cause problems on other operating systems as well. In Windows 10, you can disable IPv6 in your Wifi properties.
5. Flush your DNS cache. In Windows, open Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the command: ipconfig /flushdns
6. Change your device’s time zone to the country’s in which you’re trying to watch Netflix. Japan’s time zone is UTC+9.
7. If you are connected to a wifi network and can access the router, rename the wifi network, or SSID. Add “_nomap” to the end of the network name, without quotation marks. This will opt your wifi network out of Google’s geolocation services. You will need to reconnect your device to the updated network to regain internet access.
8. Disconnect and reconnect to the server location to see if you can get a different IP address.

How to watch Japanese Netflix FAQ

See also:

• Best VPNs for Japan.
• How to get a Japanese IP address
• How to watch Rakuten TV anywhere