How to watch Japanese TV online from anywhere with a VPN

If you’d like to watch Japanese TV from abroad, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a simple solution that will protect your data and privacy in the process. Here's a list of the best options. 

As with most countries, Japan is home to a wide selection of content that can’t be accessed without a Japanese IP address. If you try to stream via platforms like NHK and TV Asahi from abroad, you’ll be blocked due to licensing issues, as content is typically only available in Japan. 

A VPN is the best way to bypass many geo-restrictions, routing traffic through an encrypted tunnel and masking your IP address. In other words, you can select a Japanese VPN server, and you’ll be able to stream Japanese TV while abroad with no issues. It has the added benefit of improving online privacy, masking any sites and services that you visit.  

We’ll take you through each of the best providers in detail below. We’ve also included a quick rundown detailing what you can expect from each provider.

Best VPNs for Japanese TV:

1. NordVPN: The best VPN for Japanese TV. Locations in Tokyo and Osaka, access to multiple Japanese streaming platforms, no-logs, strong support, and fast connection speeds. Offers a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee. 
2. Surfshark: Our top budget VPN for watching Japanese TV. Streaming access in Japan and elsewhere, usable apps for all devices, and works with services including NHK and TV Asahi. Unlimited device connections and strong security.  
3. ExpressVPN: Perfect for bypassing geo-restrictions in Japan and beyond, beginner-friendly apps and 3,200+ servers in 105+ countries. Works with NHK, Nippon TV, and more, and offers industry-leading customer support.
4. CyberGhost: Labeled Japanese streaming servers and can access multiple services like TV Asahi and TV Tokyo. Fast speeds, simple apps, and strong security.
5. Proton VPN: Free servers in Japan, with a strong emphasis on security as well as streaming support. Great for Japanese TV channels. 
6. Atlas VPN: Works with Japanese streaming services like Nippon TV and Netflix Japan, unlimited device connections, and free servers available. 
7. IPVanish: Fast speeds, support for all devices, ideal for streaming TBS, and more.  

Summary Table

If you’re in need of a VPN for Japanese TV, it can be difficult to pick the best provider for the job. Some VPNs will only work with a few Japanese streaming services, and others won’t be able to access any platforms whatsoever.

We've been able to narrow the field with our inclusion criteria. Here are some of the non-negotiable characteristics we looked for when picking out the best providers for Japanese TV:

• Servers in Japan are necessary for watching TV from the region
• Connection speeds will dictate how efficiently the user is able to perform any online task, and are especially important for streaming content in Japan and elsewhere 
• Streaming access, as well as allowing the user to bypass blocks on other Japanese sites and services from abroad 
• Privacy and security, including everything from notable features to available protocols
• In order to qualify for one of the top three positions, the VPN must operate a 100% diskless server network and have had its infrastructure audited by a reputable third party

For more information about the specific criteria we used for picking the best VPNs for Japanese TV, check out the testing methodology section found later in this article.

Best VPNs for Japanese TV

Here’s a roundup with detailed information about each of the VPNs that have made it onto this list.

NordVPN has 130+ servers to choose from in Tokyo and Osaka, allowing the user to obtain a Japanese IP address and stream via a large selection of geo-restricted Japanese platforms. You’ll find a total of 6,000+ servers in 60+ countries worldwide, making it a top pick for multiple locations. 

It works to access Japanese content via platforms like Fuji TV and TBS TV, and it works well with numerous popular international streaming services like BBC iPlayer and US Netflix. It’s boosted by SmartPlay, which is a form of Smart DNS that automatically accesses US streaming services while protecting the user. The VPN also supports P2P, and comes with audited apps and infrastructure for peace of mind. 

You can get a dedicated IP from Tokyo for an additional fee, which means you’ll be assigned an IP address that won’t change or be shared with other users. This IP can be used for streaming, online banking, or accessing any other Japanese services while you’re abroad. 

The custom NordLynx protocol ensures average speeds of 196 Mbps, which is quick enough to handle multiple 4K streams. Meshnet is a unique private tunnel feature for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is available free of charge without a subscription. 

NordVPN is a solid all-rounder, and it is unlikely to let you down in a range of scenarios. Despite being packed full of unique features, it is missing out on port forwarding. 

THE BEST VPN FOR JAPANESE TV: NordVPN has over 160+ servers in Japan, offering strong streaming support and fast connection speeds. Custom protocol, unique features, and audited apps and infrastructure. Comes with a simple risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of NordVPN.

Surfshark is a low-cost provider that has 3,200+ RAM-only servers in 100+ countries, including coverage in Japan. Despite an emphasis on offering a budget service, it still works with the likes of Netflix Japan and J Sports, and offers average download speeds of 188 Mbps. That’s more than quick enough to stream live 4K content, which typically has a recommended minimum of 25 Mbps.

As you’ll be able to use an unlimited number of devices with Surfshark, it’s easy to share an account with others, and further emphasizes its value for money. The provider hasn’t scrimped on security, with a sturdy kill switch, obfuscation, and strong encryption backed by a strict no-logs policy. Its apps have been independently audited, and can be found on the majority of streaming devices. 

Features include MultiHop, split tunneling, and everything from rotating IPs to CleanWeb. The former regularly switches your IP address to improve privacy, while the latter is Surfshark’s name for its ​​ad blocking, tracker blocking, and malware blocking functionality. 

An antivirus software and private search engine are bundled with the more expensive Surfshark One service. If you’re only interested in streaming Japanese content, the VPN alone will get the job done. 

BEST BUDGET VPN FOR JAPANESE TV: Surfshark is an affordable solution if you plan to use a VPN to watch Japanese TV from abroad, along with additional geo-restricted content. Servers in 100+ countries, unlimited devices, and average speeds of 188 Mbps. Strong security features and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of Surfshark.

ExpressVPN is a reputable service that has servers in Shibuya, Tokyo, and Yokohama. You’ll find a total of 3,200+ servers in 105+ countries. It is a popular solution for streaming thanks to the proprietary Lightway protocol, which ensures average speeds of 175 Mbps. 

Express can easily access a multitude of geo-restricted apps and services, whether in Japan or elsewhere. For example, it has no problems with streaming NHK, TV Asahi, Netflix, Hulu, TVer, and more from abroad. The provider has built a reputation as one of the best VPNs for streaming over the years, and it doesn’t struggle when accessing the majority of sites and services. 

The provider is user-friendly, with capable apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and Fire TV. It comes with custom firmware that works with a number of router models, which is perfect if you want to connect to more than five devices. It also offers Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, and Vivaldi browser extensions. 

It has great customer support available 24/7 via live chat. Features include split tunneling and Smart DNS, although it is missing out on MultiHop, port forwarding, dedicated servers, and other notable extras seen elsewhere. 

USER-FRIENDLY JAPANESE STREAMING: ExpressVPN is a beginner-friendly provider with servers in a trio of Japanese locations. One of the best VPNs for streaming content, custom protocol, fast speeds, and apps for all devices. Offers a simple 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of ExpressVPN.

CyberGhost has 10,000+ servers found in 100+ countries, making it another strong option for streaming Japanese content from abroad. The provider’s apps make streaming easy, even if you've never used a VPN before.  

CyberGhost has servers designed to be used with various popular streaming platforms in the following countries: 

Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK, and the US. 

Over 100 Japanese servers are located in Tokyo, and the VPN will work with platforms like NHK On Demand and Tokyo MX. Despite predominantly focusing on allowing access to streaming services, CyberGhost still comes with a strict no-logs policy, and offers features like split tunneling, Smart DNS, and a Content Blocker to improve page load times. 

If you’re in need of port forwarding, MultiHop, or obfuscation, you will have to look elsewhere. Speeds average out to 296 Mbps, so it’s a speedy option, and it makes for a good solution if you’re in need of a VPN for torrenting. 

OPTIMIZED JAPANESE STREAMING SERVERS: CyberGhost is ideal for streaming via platforms based in Japan or elsewhere. Labeled servers are perfect for beginner users, it has great speeds for live content, and still provides strong security. Offers an extended 45-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.

Proton VPN has 39+ servers in Japan, allowing the user to stream via locations in Tokyo or Osaka. The provider has just over 3,000 servers in 71+ countries. As well as streaming, Proton’s Japanese servers support torrenting. The provider comes with a VPN Accelerator, pushing average speeds to 320 Mbps. 

Developed by scientists at CERN, it’s the same team behind the popular ProtonMail end-to-end encrypted messaging service. Proton VPN runs free servers in Japan, although they don’t have streaming support. It’s handy if you’re just in need of an IP address, but you’ll need a Plus account for anything else. For example, the premium version works with Netflix Japan and more. 

Paid users also get access to Secure Core servers, which will route data through either Switzerland or Sweden before reaching Japan. Further premium features include Tor over VPN, an adblocker (NetShield), and port forwarding. 

Proton is more expensive than the average provider, but you’re unlikely to feel shortchanged if you plan to access region-locked content. It also comes with essential security features, such as a no-logging policy.

ADVANCED JAPAN VPN: Proton VPN offers everything from free Japanese servers to some of the most advanced features on the market. Good streaming access, speeds in excess of 320 Mbps, and great for torrenting. 30-day money-back guarantee. 

Read our full review of ProtonVPN.

Atlas VPN has a solid reputation when it comes to bypassing streaming blocks. The fledgling provider will be able to access Japanese services like TV Asahi and Netflix Japan, while speeds (258 Mbps) belie its smaller selection of servers. As you might have guessed, it also works well with geo-blocked platforms in countries like the US and the UK. 

It comes with 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. More advanced features include ad blocking, tracker blocking, and malware filtering (SafeBrowse), and rotating IPs.  

Atlas allows the user to connect with an unlimited number of devices, further emphasizing its status as a viable option for anyone in need of an affordable solution. 

One downside is that it’s based in the United States, which is home to gag orders, the NSA, and other jurisdictional issues. Atlas VPN does come with a strict no-logs policy, but it might not be enough for users who are wary of Uncle Sam.

CONSISTENT JAPANESE STREAMING: Atlas VPN is a competent no-frills service that offers streaming support for Japan and elsewhere. Unlimited device connections, fast speeds, ad-blocking, and affordable deals. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of AtlasVPN.

IPVanish makes good use of a location in Tokyo, and has 100+ servers in Asia. It’s suitable for streaming via Japanese platforms, even if there is an emphasis on gaining access to content from the United States. For example, it works with services like NHK and TBS TV, and we were also able to stream via Netflix US, HBO Max, Prime Video USA, Disney Plus, CBS, and NBC during testing. 

Speeds won’t let you down, averaging out at 251 Mbps. As there are no connection limits, you’ll be free to protect as many devices as you’d like. The provider has had its logging claims verified in a third-party audit.  

IPVanish handles the basics well, and offers simple apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and FireTV. Features include split tunneling, along with obfuscation, and automatic WiFi protection. However, it lacks Smart DNS, Tor over VPN, and MultiHop. 

If you’re unfazed by the US headquarters, IPVanish is a great choice for streaming in a range of locations. 

UNLIMITED DEVICES: IPVanish is compatible with multiple Japanese streaming services, and offers a combination of fast speeds and strong security. Unlimited devices and a strict no-logs policy. 30-day money-back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

Methodology: How we chose the best VPNs for Japanese TV  

Rather than picking out providers at random, we’ve compiled a comprehensive VPN testing methodology. We test and compare the best VPNs in the business. 

Our strict criteria means that only providers dedicated to digital privacy, with excellent usability and optimal performance can make it onto our list. Below, you can see the criteria we used to pick the best VPNs for Japanese TV:

• Servers: A VPN with servers in Japan are necessary if you’d like to access streaming services securely. As well as Japanese locations for streaming your favorite content via Japanese channels, we’ve factored in the strength of the entire network. This helps if you’d like to access services in other countries too, such as BBC iPlayer. 
• Speeds and performance: No matter what you plan to use a VPN for, connection speeds will have an impact on almost any online task. Japan has average download speeds of 154 Mbps, so each of the providers listed above will be able to get the job done with no lag or buffering. Speeds for streaming should also be reliable, with the VPN offering unlimited bandwidth. 
• Privacy and security: How does the VPN perform in terms of security and privacy? We look at features, their implementation, and everything from leak protection to encryption and protocols. 
• Third-party audits: Trust is the foundation of the value that VPNs provide. You are essentially placing more faith in your VPN provider than you are in your ISP. Almost every provider says they are a ‘no logs' VPN. The only ways to test this claim are either through the courts or through audits. We will only consider providers for our top three positions if they have undergone infrastructure audits from a reputable third party. While this isn't foolproof, it's the closest the industry has to a verification process for logging policies.
• Diskless infrastructure: Again, this is a prerequisite to be considered for one of the top three positions on BleepingComputer. While the data stored on a VPN server should be minimal, it could, theoretically, be accessed if the servers were seized or hacked. Moving processes to RAM means that no information can be physically taken from servers and it is wiped on shutdown. It can also easily be wiped as a part of regular security procedures.

How to use a VPN to watch Japanese TV online

It doesn’t take long to get started if you want to set up a provider to work with Japanese TV platforms. We’ve put together a quick guide to take you through the necessary steps. 

Here’s how to set up a VPN to watch Japanese TV:

1. Select a VPN provider that works with the Japanese streaming platform you’d like to access. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Sign up with a provider, and download the relevant app/s to your device. 
3. Sign in, and select a server in Japan. Wait a few seconds to be connected. 
4. Open the streaming service you’d like to access.
5. You should now be able to watch Japanese TV with your new IP address.

That’s all it takes to get started, and you’ll be able to access a long list of blocked Japanese sites and services while abroad. If you’re having trouble, try deleting your cookies to ensure the streaming service doesn’t remember your real location. Alternatively, try another Japanese VPN server.  

Japanese TV VPN FAQs

Can I use a free VPN for Japanese TV?

It’s going to be tough to find a trustworthy VPN that will give the user streaming access in Japan. For example, many free VPNs have been found wanting in the past, lacking everything from basic encryption to the speeds necessary to stream content. Various free VPNs won’t be able to handle accessing Japanese streaming content, and you’ll find many apps riddled with malware and ads. 

Even the likes of Proton VPN will lock streaming behind a paywall, despite offering free Japanese servers that will keep your data safe and secure.  

Can I get an IP address from a specific Japanese city like Tokyo or Osaka?

You can get an IP address from a specific Japanese city as long as the VPN has a relevant server location. For example, NordVPN has Japanese servers in Tokyo and Osaka, which will give the user a nearby IP address while connected.

Is it legal to use a VPN to watch Japanese TV?

It’s legal to use a VPN to access streaming services from Japan, but you’ll have to ensure that providers are allowed in your current country. For example, VPNs are blocked in regions like China or Russia. Be aware, the use of a VPN may go against the terms of service for some platforms.

Will a VPN slow my connection speeds while streaming?

A VPN does have the potential to slow user speeds, and performance will vary depending on a number of factors. As you’ll be using Japanese servers for streaming, make an effort to pick the fastest location possible.

What kinds of streaming services can I access with an IP address from Japan?

You should be able to stream via a wide range of Japanese streaming services. This includes Netflix Japan, Hulu Japan, Amazon Prime Video Japan, AbemaTV, dTV, U-Next, J:COM TV, TVer, GYAO!, and more. 

The same goes for international platforms, including BBC iPlayer and Hulu. You’ll just need to connect to a relevant VPN server location.

Why do some VPNs not work with Japanese streaming services?

Streaming services often make a considerable effort to block the IP addresses used by VPNs. This is often due to broadcasting restrictions, which limit access to Japanese content and platforms while abroad. 

Some VPNs have given up attempting to access streaming services, as it costs a considerable amount to keep a steady stream of IP addresses available. As such, only some providers can access Japanese streaming services from abroad.