watch Netflix Japan abroad

Have you ever found yourself in the frustrating situation of trying to access your favorite anime or that exclusive Japanese movie on Netflix while you’re overseas? Instead of the content you’re used to, you’re faced with a completely different library. This is because Netflix tailors its content based on your current location. But what if there was a way to bypass this limitation? After extensive research and testing, we’ve discovered a solution: using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access Netflix Japan.

Since its impressive launch in 2015, Netflix Japan has been a powerhouse. By 2020, data from uNoGS revealed that its catalog was one of the most diverse and extensive worldwide. The real gem in this collection? An unmatched selection of anime titles. Some of these, like Violet Evergarden, debut in Japan before they’re available globally, making Netflix Japan a must-have for any anime enthusiast.

With the right VPN connected to a Japanese server, Netflix Japan’s vast library becomes available no matter where your travels take you.

If you’re short on time, here’s a straightforward list of the best VPNs we’ve rigorously tested in real-world scenarios. These VPNs guarantee uninterrupted access to Netflix Japan, no matter where your travels take you.

From our experience, here are the best VPNs for Watching Japanese Netflix from Abroad:

  1. NordVPN: Our top choice VPN for Japanese Netflix. Has excellent speeds, a huge range of security features, a no-logs policy, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It is popular with anime fans who want uninterrupted access to Netflix and other popular streaming services.
    TIP In our testing we found that the cheapest NordVPN plan (Standard) works perfectly for Netflix Japan.
  2. Surfshark: The best budget option for unrestricted access to Netflix Japan. Quick and highly versatile, with strong security and privacy features. No connection limit so you can enjoy Japanese titles on any streaming device.
  3. IPVanish: Works consistently with Netflix Japan, Netflix US, and other international platforms. Very fast server speeds for streaming in 4K. Secure all of your devices at the same time with a single subscription.
  4. ExpressVPN: Fast servers in Japan, consistent access to Netflix and most other major platforms without any buffering issues. Great privacy and security credentials, including 256-bit AES encryption and a no-logs policy.
  5. CyberGhost: Fastest speeds tested. Largest server network of all, with over over 8,000 servers in 90+ countries. Strict no-logs service and an intuitive interface that’s perfect for VPN beginners accessing Japanese content.
  6. PrivateVPN: Small provider with a few servers in Japan for a Japanese IP address. Can access Netflix Japan from anywhere. Has 256-bit encryption and works great with mobile devices.
  7. PureVPN: Reliable and good value VPN for streaming Netflix Japan. Strong no logs policy, AES-256 encryption. Allows torrenting. 
  8. ProtonVPN: Connect to servers in 85+ countries, including Japan. Robust encryption, live chat support 24/7, and advanced features for techy users.
Get NordVPN - the #1 VPN for Netflix Japan
Warning

Many VPNs claim to work with Netflix Japan but most (especially free VPNs) are often blocked.

We regularly test the top 70 VPNs with all major streaming sites and this list only includes VPNs which reliably unblock Netflix Japan and offer a full money-back guarantee, allowing you to try them risk-free.

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 your chosen location. 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.

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 the VPN rated #1 for Netflix Japan with no restrictions for a monthgreat if you want to stream the latest episodes of your favorite anime while traveling.

There's no catch, eitherjust tell support within 30 days if you decide NordVPN isn't right for you and you'll receive a full refund. Start your NordVPN trial here.

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 bypass the ban reliably, while the rest remain locked out. We went through the trouble of testing several providers and finding 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.

How to get Japanese Netflix from anywhere

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 – Our hands-on review

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 Netflix Japan.

No valueNordVPNSurfsharkIPVanishExpressVPNCyberGhostPureVPNProton VPNPrivateVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.comSurfshark.comIPVanish.comExpressVPN.comCyberghost.comPureVPN.comprotonvpn.comPrivateVPN.com
Ranking for Japan Netflix12345678
Total number of servers6,000+3,2002,200+Undisclosed11,000+6,500+3,800200+
Avg Speed (US)100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps628 Mbps100+ Mbps100+ Mbps
Simultaneous Connections10UnlimitedUnlimited8710Free: 1, VPN Plus: 1010
Popular Sites Unblocked95%88%85%86%85%80%87%85%
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 73% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months
$2.19
Save 86% on a 2 year Starter plan + 3 months free
$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan
$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free
$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free!
$2.14
82% off the 2-yr standard plan + 3 free months
$3.59
Up to 64% off a 2-year plan
$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

Best VPNs for Watching Japanese Netflix

Our list of the best VPN service providers for Netflix Japan is based on the following criteria from our real-world testing:

  • 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 how we test and recommend VPNs. For now, use our detailed summaries to choose between our top picks:

1. NordVPN

NordVPN Oct 2024 works with netflix japanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Background FireTV

Website:  www.NordVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

NordVPN offers access to over 80 Japanese servers and easily accesses Netflix Japan from abroad to watch your favorite TV shows and movies. What’s more, this service is the fastest we’ve tested, guaranteeing you a flawless streaming experience. Should you have any problems, 24/7 support is available via 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. And in addition you can connect up to 10 devices at the same time.

NordVPN speed test data

No valueNordVPN
WebsiteNordVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)354 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)262 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)284 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$3.09
Up to 73% off 2 year plans + 3 EXTRA months

Pros:

  • 80+ high-speed Japanese servers
  • One of the best for accessing streaming sites like Netflix
  • Excellent security and encryption standards
  • Keeps no logs whatsoever
  • Offers 24/7 live chat

Cons:

  • Desktop app can take some getting used to

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

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

Check out the full NordVPN review.

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2. Surfshark

Surfshark works with netflix japanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Surfshark.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

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 server to server 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 apps for most major devices, including macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux. It can be manually installed on select network routers.

Surfshark speed test data

No valueSurfshark
WebsiteSurfshark.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)521 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)702 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)561 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.19
Save 86% on a 2 year Starter plan + 3 months free

Pros:

  • Steady speeds and unlimited bandwidth
  • Unblocks some of the most popular streaming services abroad
  • Unlimited devices
  • Strong security and privacy credentials
  • Keeps no logs

Cons:

  • A relatively small server network
  • Some slow connection speeds

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

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. IPVanish

IPVanish works with netflix japanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.IPVanish.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

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, thanks to the very user-friendly apps, you’re unlikely to have issues.

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

No valueIPVanish
WebsiteIPVanish.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)277 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)237 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)352 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 yr plan

Pros:

  • Securely access Netflix Japan from abroad
  • One of the fastest VPNs on the market (ideal for streaming)
  • Lets you connect all of your devices simultaneously
  • 24-hour support via live chat and email
  • Easy-to-use apps

Cons:

  • US headquarters (a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance)
  • No browser extensions available

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

SUPER FAST VPN:IPVanish has the WireGuard protocol 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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4. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN works with netflix japanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.ExpressVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

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 of 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

No valueExpressVPN
WebsiteExpressVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)319 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)303 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)278 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$6.67
SAVE: 49% + 3 months free

Pros:

  • Superfast servers in Japan have no issues accessing Netflix from anywhere
  • Top-class security and privacy protection features
  • Also unblocks most major streaming sites, e.g. Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer
  • Live chat available 24/7
  • No logs policy

Cons:

  • Slightly higher price than some of its rivals
  • Lack of advanced configuration options

Our score:

4 out of 5

SECURE AND PRIVATE:ExpressVPN is a solid choice. Reliably access 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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5. CyberGhost

CyberGhost works with netflix japanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.Cyberghost.com

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

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 streaming Netflix lag-free 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, as well as Chrome and Firefox browser extensions, are also offered. Use with routers requires manual setup.

CyberGhost speed test data

No valueCyberGhost
WebsiteCyberghost.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)449 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)269 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)167 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.19
SAVE 83% on the 2 year plan + 2 months free!

Pros:

  • Large network of roughly 8,000 servers in 90+ countries
  • Fastest speeds of any VPN we’ve tested (lag-free streaming)
  • Operates a strict-logs policy to keep your data private
  • Secure up to seven devices at the same time
  • Live chat and email support available 24 hours a day

Cons:

  • Fails to bypass the Great Firewall of China

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

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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6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN works with netflix japanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PrivateVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

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

No valuePrivateVPN
WebsitePrivateVPN.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)94 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)57 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)62 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$2.00
Save 85% on a one year plan + 24-months free

Pros:

  • Easy to stream Japanese content including Netflix
  • Also unblocks Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer and more
  • Keeps no logs whatsoever
  • Streaming speeds are good enough for HD

Cons:

  • Newer network with a smaller number of servers to choose from
  • Live chat goes offline for two hours per day

Our score:

4.5 out of 5

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

Read our full PrivateVPN review.

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7. PureVPN

PureVPN works with Netflix JapanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.PureVPN.com

Money-back guarantee: 31 DAYS

PureVPN is a highly reliable and low-cost VPN that has servers in Japan and 65+ other countries. This makes it a reliable option for accessing the Japanese Netflix catalog while on vacation. When we tested the VPN, we were able to access Japanese exclusives like the movie Gintama.

Besides working to access Japanese Netflix and platforms like TV Asahi, NHK, Nippon, and TV Tokyo, the VPN works to watch a wide choice of international streaming services in the US, the UK, Europe, and elsewhere. Plus you can also access regional Netflix catalogs in Canada, the UK, Japan, and Germany – making it a great all-rounder.

The VPN provides superb speeds for data-intensive tasks like streaming and torrenting thanks to its WireGuard implementation. Users get average global download speeds of around 400 Mbps. This is impressive, considering the low cost of a PureVPN subscription.

In addition to an independently audited no-logs policy, PureVPN includes strong AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and a solid no-logging policy. This means you can use PureVPN to watch Netflix at work and gain privacy no matter where you use the internet. It also protects you against hackers on public Wi-Fi.

The only complaint is that the live chat support is slow to respond, but considering the cost of this VPN, and how well it functions, this is a small gripe. You can test the VPN risk-free using its 31-day money-back guarantee. Just bear in mind that if you want access to its port-forwarding feature, you will need to pay a bit extra.

PureVPN speed test data

Pros:

  • Fast and reliable
  • No logging policy has been independently audited
  • Works with Netflix Hulu, NHK, and many others

Cons:

  • Support is a bit slow
  • Port forwarding costs extra

Our score:

4 out of 5

FAST & CHEAP:PureVPN is a highly impressive VPN to stream Netflix Japan on a budget. The VPN is reliable and easy to use on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Firestick. Strong no logs policy and rock solid AES-256 encryption. Allows torrenting. Protects you on public WiFi. 31-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our PureVPN review.

PureVPN Coupon
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8. ProtonVPN

Proton VPN works with Netflix JapanTested Oct 2024

Apps Available:

  • PC
  • Mac
  • IOS
  • Android
  • Linux

Website:  www.protonvpn.com

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ProtonVPN is based in Switzerland, a country that has no mandatory data retention laws and strong privacy protections. The VPN is perfect for people in Japan who want an impressive VPN that is packed with advanced features. It has an excellent reputation and provides everything you need to stay secure online: AES encryption, a kill switch, a choice of protocols, obfuscation, split tunneling, multi-hop connections, self-owned bare metal servers (Secure Core), and Tor over VPN. It also has a strong no-logs policy that has been independently verified.

Servers are available in 85+ countries, including Japan, to watch Netflix. We tested the VPN and were able to access regional Netflix exclusives in Japan, the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, and Japan. This shows that ProtonVPN is one of the best Netflix VPNs on the market. It is also fast, thanks to its WireGuard protocol.

Those who want to torrent will be happy to find both split tunneling and port forwarding. Plus, it also works to access popular international streaming services like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and HBO Max. This makes it a highly popular all-rounder.

Live chat support is available in the member’s area of its website, and the agents are excellent. The only real drawback is that Proton is more expensive than some of the other options, so we would check that you need all its advanced features before committing long terms. You can test it using the 30-day money-back guarantee.

ProtonVPN speed test data

No valueProton VPN
Websiteprotonvpn.com
Average Connection Speed - North America (USA)390 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Europe (UK)306 Mbps
Average Connection Speed - Asia (Hong Kong)295 Mbps
Best deal (per month)$3.59
Up to 64% off a 2-year plan

Pros:

  • Excellent speeds for streaming
  • Works to access various Netflix regions
  • Many advanced features

Cons:

  • A touch expensive
  • Might not be the best for beginners

Our score:

4 out of 5

ADVANCED FEATURES:ProtonVPN has advanced features suitable for techy users. Connect to servers in 85+ countries, including Japan. Robust encryption to stream Netflix privately at work or on campus. Live chat support is available 24/7. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Find out more in our ProtonVPN review.

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Netflix Japan VPN – Our testing methodology

There are hundreds of consumer-facing VPNs available, but not all of them work to stream Netflix in Japan. Most VPNs are too slow for HD streaming without buffering, and Netflix has blocked many VPN servers. 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.

We always test the market to ensure we only ever recommend reliable VPNs with robust features and well-designed apps.

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 one device.
  • Great customer care. Using a VPN is easy, but you never know when you might have an issue or want advice. Our recommendation is to make it easy by providing email and live chat support. This means you can find out which server is optimized for 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.

Japanese Netflix stats and facts

Netflix has certainly made its mark in Japan. Out of all the subscription-based streaming services, it’s the top regarding user fees. This is followed by U-Next, Amazon Prime Video, and DAZN trailing behind. In 2021, nearly 4 out of 10 people between 20 to 29 years old were tuning into Netflix. That’s about 7 million people in Japan giving Netflix a seat at the table with a 15% share of the streaming market.

If you’ve been wondering what’s been trending on Netflix Japan lately, here are some top picks from the week of August 28 to September 3, 2023:

  • Japanese fans are loving “ONE PIECE: Season 1”
  • Getting spooked with “Jujutsu Kaisen: Season 2”
  • Diving into the mystery of “Mask Girl: Season 1”
  • Feeling the romance with “Destined with You: Season 1”
  • Exploring relationship dynamics in “My Happy Marriage: Season 1”
  • Enjoying some undead antics in “Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead: Season 1”.

However, it’s interesting to note that only about 13% of households with broadband in Japan are subscribed to Netflix. The Japanese are loyal to their traditional TV channels and major anime studios.

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 by 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 bypass Netflix’s firewall reliably.

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
  • 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 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

Is streaming anime legal from Japan?

As with many other countries, Japan has both legal and illegal streaming sites. The former are those that have been granted permission by the copyright holder to provide the content in question. In summary, streaming anime from Japan is perfectly legal if you do so via officially licensed sources such as Netflix Japan, Amazon Prime Video, and Bandai Channel.

What are the top 3 Netflix Japanese series?

It’s open to debate which are the top three Netflix Japanese series. After all, there are plenty of Japanese series on Netflix, and opinions can vary for each one. However, arguably the most popular Netflix Japanese series are Good Morning Call, Switched, and Erased.

Do I need to change my region to watch Japanese Netflix?

If you’re in Japan, then no, you don’t need to change your region to watch Japanese Netflix. However, if you’re traveling abroad, you’ll need to connect to a VPN server in Japan. Doing so provides you with a Japanese IP address, allowing you to watch Netflix Japan from anywhere in the world.

How do Japanese films differ from Hollywood films?

You might be surprised to find out there are crossovers between Japanese and Hollywood cinema. Studio Ghibli, for example, is very popular in the West, with recordings made using Japanese and American actors for each market.

Take a look at this in-depth review of the differences between American and Japanese movies.

How do I get Japanese subtitles on Netflix?

To get Japanese subtitles on Netflix, start playing a movie or show, then select ‘Audio & Subtitles’ on your screen. If Japanese isn’t listed, you can choose ‘Other’ for more options. If Japanese still isn’t available, you might need to change your profile language to Japanese. This could make Japanese subtitles available for some content.

However, the availability of Japanese subtitles can depend on your location, the specific title you’re watching, and your device. Some older devices before 2014 may not support subtitles for some languages, including Japanese.

If the above does not work, you can use external subtitle services like Subscene or OpenSubtitles to download a Japanese subtitle file and add it to your media player while watching Netflix as a last resort.

How much does Netflix cost in Japan?

Netflix subscription prices vary from country to country. Indeed, we’ve studied which countries pay the most and least for Netflix. Following a 2021 price increase, Japan subscription prices range from JPY ¥990 to ¥1,980 ($8.63 – $17.26 USD / £6.33 – £12.66 GBP). While not the cheapest, there are still far more expensive countries for Netflix, such as Switzerland.

Is Japanese Netflix good for anime?

Yes, Netflix Japan has arguably the best anime collection of any Netflix library. It features popular anime titles such as Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, and My Hero Academia. However, if you can’t find a particular anime on Japanese Netflix, you can always try an alternative, such as Crunchyroll or Funimation.

Does Netflix have exclusive anime content?

Yes, Netflix has a growing library of exclusive anime content. Titles include Knights of Sidonia, Ajin: Demi-Human, Blame!, and Death Note.

Netflix is quickly becoming a major player in the world of anime. In addition to its growing library of exclusive titles, the streaming service also produces its original anime series, such as Castlevania and Devilman Crybaby. So, if you’re an anime fan, Netflix is definitely worth checking out.

What can I watch on Japanese Netflix?

Japan has one of the largest Netflix libraries, which means there’s no shortage of content to stream, be it Japanese or international. Here are some of the titles you can watch on Japanese Netflix at the time of writing:

Movies

  • The Batman
  • It’s a Flickering Life
  • Roahl Dahl’s Matilda The Musical
  • Aristocrats
  • Scream
  • Nobody’s Perfect
  • King Richard
  • Yowamushi Pedal
  • Dune
  • Tomorrow’s Dinner Table

TV shows

  • Harry & Meghan
  • Little Witch Academia
  • The Adventures of Paddington
  • Alice in Borderland
  • Unsolved Mysteries
  • Ikebukuro West Gate Park
  • Borgen
  • First Love
  • The Blacklist
  • MIU 404

Can I watch Ya Boy Kongming! on Netflix with a VPN?

Yes, you can watch Ya Boy Kongming! on Netflix with a VPN. By using one of our approved VPNs, you can easily get around region-based restrictions on Netflix and stream Ya Boy Kongming!

Ya Boy Kongming! is an animated series created by Rong Xu and produced by Hudu Animation Studio Inc., Beijing China Magic Valley Culture Co., Ltd.. It tells the story of Zhuge Liang’s journey through dangerous lands, fighting wars and solving mysteries as he works hard to become The Grand Commander.

Are there any recommended Japanese dramas on Netflix?

Netflix has a vast collection of Japanese dramas that offer a wide range of genres, including romance, thriller, fantasy, and comedy. Here are some of the recommended Japanese dramas on Netflix:

  1. Perfect World
  2. Alice in Borderland
  3. First Love
  4. Terrace House
  5. Japan Sinks: People of Hope

That’s just a taste. Many more Japanese dramas are available on Netflix, and there is something for everyone.

See also: