How to watch Japanese Netflix outside Japan

Netflix’s Japanese content catalog is one of the best in the world, giving you access to fantastic anime, movies and TV shows you’d struggle to find anywhere else. But because Netflix has a different content library for each country, Japanese Netflix won’t be readily available to you if you’re outside Japan.

Luckily, there’s an easy way around this. All you need to do is use a reliable VPN that can unblock Netflix in Japan. By connecting to a Japanese server, you’ll be able to bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions and access the desired content.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to do this, as well as tell you which VPNs to avoid and even help you decide what to watch on Netflix Japan.

How to watch Japanese Netflix anywhere with VPN

1. Choose a VPN that can bypass geo-restrictions on Netflix Japan. We recommend NordVPN, 74% OFF.
2. Sign up for a plan, install the VPN on your device.
3. Open up your VPN app and sign in.
4. Connect to a server in Japan.
5. Connect to Netflix, and watch your favorite content!

Why do I need a VPN for Japanese Netflix?

There are multiple reasons to use a VPN for Japanese Netflix. To start with, the content you can access on Netflix varies depending on your location. This is because Netflix has to comply with copyright laws and distribution agreements in each country it operates in. So, if you want to access Japanese Netflix or any other Netflix library for that matter, you’ll need to use a VPN to connect to a server in the country you want to access.

It’s worth mentioning that Netflix has recently updated its geoblocking technology, which makes it extremely hard for VPNs to bypass its restrictions. Therefore, only a powerful and reputable VPN will let you access all the Japanese content Netflix has to offer, from movies to TV shows, no matter where you are in the world.

Besides, using a VPN will bring you more perks – if you use a VPN to bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions, you’ll be able to access other libraries and watch content using your existing Netflix subscription: getting a massive increase in your library at no extra cost.

On the other hand, a VPN will encrypt your traffic, which means it will be safe from cybercriminals, government bodies, and other third parties, even if you use an unsecured network, such as public wifi in hotels, cafes, or airports.

Not to mention that a VPN can stop your internet service provider (ISP) from throttling your speeds. If your ISP detects high-bandwidth usage, such as streaming Japanese Netflix in HD, it may intentionally slow your internet down so it can deliver similar speeds for everyone. But a VPN will hide your online activity, meaning your ISP can’t tell what you’re up to, thereby preventing them from throttling your speeds.

Here you can check out our detailed list of the best VPNs for Japan.

Best VPNs for Japanese Netflix:

It’s crucial to choose a reputable VPN to make sure that your Japanese Netflix gets unblocked and you can stream your favorite shows without buffering. We tested and selected the best VPNs to make your streaming experience as smooth as possible:

1. NordVPN – best overall VPN for Japanese Netflix
2. Surfshark – affordable and all-around Japanese Netflix VPN
3. IPVanish – robust VPN for seamless Japanese Netflix streaming

1. NordVPN – best Japanese Netflix VPN

Visit NordVPN

The best VPN for Japanese Netflix is NordVPN. It has a combination of a broad server fleet, fast speeds, and flawless streaming capabilities. With more than 80 Japanese servers, it offers an array of other useful features to make a smooth and safe experience.

With NordVPN, you will not only bypass geo-restrictions and unblock Japanese Netflix. You will be securely connected to an encrypted traffic thanks to AES-256 encryption. Obfuscated servers will take your security to the next level, as it hides the fact that a VPN is even being used. For privacy, NordVPN implements zero-logs policy, which is independently audited.

This provider unblocks Netflix and other major streaming platforms. It’s also available for iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux apps, giving a great versatility device-wise.

NordVPN prices start at $3.09/month and you can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Check out the full NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark – best money for value Japanese Netflix VPN

Visit Surfshark

If you’re looking for an affordable option and speedy streaming combo, Surfshark is an excellent VPN option. It offers multiple servers in Japan and, most importantly, unblocks Japanese Netflix from anywhere in the world – whether you’d be in America or Europe.

This provider offers excellent speeds and bypasses geo-restrictions not only on Netflix but for other platforms like Hulu or Amazon Prime Video. You can connect this VPN to as many devices as you want – it provides unlimited simultaneous connections. As for security, Surfshark also implements unbreakable AES-256 encryption, automatic kill switch, and other advanced features.

Speaking of, Surfsharks’ No Borders mode can help you get around powerful geo-blocks. Additionally, there’s a no-logs policy to make sure none of your data is being logged. You can get a bundle of VPN and antivirus with additional tools – Surfshark One.

Surfshark’s prices start as low as $2.19/month.

Visit Surfshark review to learn more.

3. IPVanish – reliable VPN for unblocking Japanese Netflix

Visit IPVanish

Another excellent VPN choice to watch Japanese Netflix with is IPVanish. With its outstanding performance and 20 Japanese servers, you’ll be able to stream without any issues.

Thanks to the WireGuard protocol, IPVanish’s speeds are one of the fastest ones, so you can rest assured you’ll enjoy lag-free streaming and browsing. This provider will ensure your security and privacy too – your traffic will be encrypted through AES-256 encryption and DNS leak protection, as well as a kill switch will safeguard your data from leaking.

IPVanish offers unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can connect it to as many devices as you want. It’s available on Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Amazon Fire, and more.

Prices start at $2.19/month.

Take a look at a comprehensive IPVanish review.

How we tested and selected these VPNs

There are endless offers of VPNs out there. So how do you select the one? We have tested and selected the best VPNs for you, according to its Netflix unblocking capabilities, streaming performance, overall security, and more. Here are some of the key points we took into consideration:

• Streaming capabilities. Successfully unblocking Japanese Netflix and streaming its shows was the first feature we made sure a VPN has. A reputable provider is able to unblock geo-restrictions streaming platforms with no issues.
• Japanese servers. You need to make sure the chosen VPN has local Japanese servers that are able to connect to Japanese Netflix with it. The more servers it has, the better overall performance and speeds will be, as it’s likely that servers won’t be overcrowded.
• Speed. Overall performance is crucial for a smooth streaming experience. The VPNs we selected have the best speeds and don’t encounter any buffering.
• Security. You need to make sure that your chosen VPN has robust security and implements features like a kill switch, next-gen encryption, obfuscated servers, and more.
• Price. Value for money is also one of the top priorities when choosing a VPN. Our recommended VPNs have a great balance between cost and quality and are affordable to each user.

Get Japanese Netflix on your device

Accessing the Japanese Netflix library is quite easy and straightforward. With a reputable VPN you will be able to bypass the vigorous geo-block.

We have come up with short guides for each device you would be unblocking the Netflix on.

Watch Japanese Netflix on mobile devices

Want to stream Japanese Netflix on a mobile device? Here are some simple steps you need to follow:

1. Download the VPN from Google Play or App Store. We recommend NordVPN.
2. Register an account or login.
3. Connect to a Japanese server.
4. We also recommend clearing cache in your mobile settings.
5. That’s it! Once you open the Netflix app, the region should be changed.

Stream Japanese Netflix on your mobile

Watch Japanese Netflix on gaming consoles (Playstation, xbox)

If you’ve been thinking of streaming Japanese Netflix on your gaming console – PlayStation or Xbox, you need to bear in mind that they don’t support VPN apps. Therefore, the setup process is going to be a little different:

1. Choose a reputable VPN service for your gaming console. Try NordVPN.
2. Install the VPN on your router or share VPN connection over wifi from another device.
3. Choose a Japanese server.
4. Connect your console to the wifi network.
5. Open Netflix and enjoy Japanese content.

Stream Japanese Netflix on the console

Watch Japanese Netflix on TV

If you want to access Japanese Netflix on TV, keep in mind that Android TVs have VPN apps you can install via the apps store. You will need to follow these instructions:

1. Pick a powerful VPN – our top choice is NordVPN.
2. Locate the VPN service on Google Play and install it.
3. Log into your account and connect to a Japanese server.
4. Launch the Netflix app and enjoy Japanese content.

Stream Japanese Netflix on your TV

Is it legal to use a VPN to access Japanese Netflix?

Yes, it’s completely legal to use a VPN to access Netflix in Japan, provided you’re in a country where using a VPN is legal. However, some countries, such as China, Iraq, and North Korea, ban the use of VPNs altogether. If you use a VPN for any reason in one of these countries, you will be breaking the law.

Aside from that, while using a VPN to bypass Netflix’s location restrictions isn’t illegal, it does go against the streaming platform’s terms of service. But in the unlikely event of trying to access Japanese Netflix with a VPN, your account could only get suspended because of a failed payment or so, not because of a VPN. In short, it’s extremely unlikely you’ll face any negative consequences if you use a VPN to unblock Netflix Japan.

What can you watch on Japanese Netflix?

There's a variety of content to watch on Netflix Japan. Whether you’re a big fan of anime, superhero movies, or comedy shows from around the world, you’ll find no end of content to keep you entertained.

But to help you decide what to watch, we’ve curated three lists based on recommendations from Netflix, online reviews, and our own favorites.

List of Netflix Japan exclusives

There is some content that you can stream exclusively only on Japanese Netflix and it’s not available in any other region. Let’s take a look:

New content on Japanese Netflix in 2024

Here’s what you can watch on Japanese Netflix this year:

Top 10 best anime on Netflix Japan

One of the best things about Netflix Japan is its vast collection of anime. But which ones should you watch? Well, it depends who you ask.

Our favorite anime on Netflix Japan

We’ve been watching a lot of anime on Japanese Netflix, and these are our favorites so far:

Top 10 best movies on Netflix Japan

If you’re not a big fan of anime, there are still loads of movies on Netflix Japan for you to enjoy. Here’s Netflix’s Japanese top 10 movies at the time of writing:

Top 10 best TV shows on Netflix Japan

As if all this content wasn’t enough, you’ll find tons of TV shows available on Netflix Japan. Here are some of the best ones you can binge-watch right now:

Can I get Japanese Netflix without a VPN?

In short, yes, you can get access to Japanese netflix without a VPN. You can do that by using SmartDNS. It’s a technology that lets you access geo-restricted sites and services by routing your Domain Name Server (DNS) through a remote server.

However, using a VPN is a best option to bypass blocks for Japanese Netflix, as it not only hides your original IP address but also encrypts your traffic making it way safer. In contrast, when you’re using a DNS server, your traffic is not encrypted and cybercriminals can potentially get your data.

VPNs like NordVPN and Surfshark have SmartDNS features. In result, a VPN is the best all-in-one solution to safeguard your online presence and access Japanese Netflix.

Why is Japanese Netflix not working with a VPN?

So you’ve installed a VPN and your Japanese Netflix is still not working? Here are some things that might have caused it:

• You’ve connected to a server in a wrong country
• Your VPN provided might have been blocked by the streaming service (Netflix)
• Your chosen VPN can’t pass the geo-blocks
• Your device isn’t compatible with a VPN

There are ways to fix it. Here are some solutions to try:

• Try connecting to a different servers
• Clear cache and cookies
• Check for updates for the browser
• Choose a reputable VPN provider

Unblock Japanese Netflix with NordVPN

Can’t access your favorite shows from the Japanese Netflix library? Try NordVPN to unblock all major streaming platforms, including Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and more. Improve your streaming performance and enjoy fast speeds.

cybernews® score

4.9 /5

• Excellent speeds
• Next-gen AES-256 encryption
• Big Japanese server fleet

Visit NordVPN

Can I watch Japanese Netflix for free?

Unfortunately, free VPNs are unlikely to unblock Netflix Japan. For one thing, you’ll still have to pay for your Netflix subscription, no matter which country’s content you’re trying to access. But if you want to use a free VPN to watch Netflix Japan, you might be disappointed.

None of the free VPNs we’ve tested have managed to unblock Japanese Netflix. This isn’t a surprise, as free VPNs can’t normally be used to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services, like Netflix.

And even if you could use a free VPN to unblock Japanese Netflix, you probably won’t get a good user experience. That’s because free VPNs tend to be much slower than paid-for VPNs, which means they’re not good for binge-watching content. More concerningly though, free VPNs are usually bad for security. In fact, they often make a profit by tracking user data and selling it to third parties.

Freemium VPNs, on the other hand, are much more reliable. And in terms of overall user experience, you’d be much better off opting for a secure, reliable, and efficient VPN:

• NordVPN – it offers a 7-day free trial for Android users (after the signup, you’re able to connect it to other devices as well). It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Surfshark – it offers a 7-day free trial for mobile apps and macOS. Alternatively, you can make use of Surfshark’s 30-day money-back guarantee too.

Conclusion

Thanks to Netflix’s recent geoblocking technology upgrades, it’s now harder than ever for VPNs to successfully unblock Japanese Netflix. In fact, you may have found that your VPN used to be able to bypass Netflix’s location restrictions but has now been blocked.

But there’s no need to fuss about it. Luckily, there are a few VPNs out there that can still give you access to Netflix Japan. In our testing, only NordVPN was able to consistently unblock all the content we wanted to watch. And if you’re a fan of anime or other Japanese movies or TV shows, it’s well worth investing because there’s a whole host of great content to watch on Netflix Japan.

And besides letting you access Netflix content from other parts of the world, a VPN is also a great cybersecurity tool, as it encrypts your internet traffic. This means that no one can see what you’re up to, even if you’re connected to public Wi-Fi. It’ll even help you avoid having your speeds throttled by your ISP.

Have we answered all your questions about watching Japanese Netflix from anywhere in the world? Let us know in the comments section below.

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