How to Watch Japanese Netflix Outside Japan (Super Easy)

Netflix is one of the most popular video streaming platforms out there. You are afforded a unique library of videos depending on your location. This is why we have different libraries for Netflix US, Netflix UK, and Netflix Japan, amongst others. The algorithms on Netflix stop you from accessing content except it is meant for your specific location.

Netflix Japan has a slew of choice TV shows, anime, and movies. However, due to the system Netflix employs, Japanese people who are outside the country will be barred from accessing Japanese Netflix. 

The content on Netflix Japan is subject to Intellectual Property licensing. The license prevents the service provider from broadcasting the video contents outside of Japan. If the platform violates this agreement, it would be breaching its obligations and may get sued. 

In this review, we show you how to access Japanese Netflix outside Japanese – the restrictions notwithstanding. Dig in!

How to Access Japanese Netflix Outside Japan with a VPN

There is a way out of the challenge posed by geo-restrictions.  This is through the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). With a VPN, you can short circuit Netflix Japan’s restrictions and freely view your favorite videos from outside Japan.

To do this, you need to connect to the VPN’s Japanese server. This way, you will then obtain a (virtual) Japanese IP address. You would further enable you to access Japanese Netflix freely without any challenge. The full steps are discussed below:

1. Select any good VPN provider. (In the next section, we show you some of the best providers in the market.)
2. Download and install the VPN.
3. Run the VPN app, toggle the settings. 
4. Select a Japanese server from the list provided.
5. Minimize the VPN app and head over to your Netflix app. The offerings you have now should be Japanese-specific.

The Best VPNs to Watch Japanese Netflix Outside Japan

Below, we have whittled down the VPN list to five (s) strong contenders. These VPNs will ensure seamless streaming of Japanese Netflix shows outside Japan.

Overall Best in Our Tests

ExpressVPN

Overall score: 9.8

• Super-fast servers
• AES 256-bit encryption
• Supports private protocol, Lightway
• Money-back guarantee

Try ExpressVPN

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee!

ExpressVPN is our top recommendation for accessing Japanese Netflix wherever you are located. There are several reasons for that. You will get to agree with our appraisal soon enough.

This provider has over 3000 speedy servers and counting. These servers are strategically placed all over the world in about 120 locations. As you can expect, it does have servers in Japan – more than 5 to be exact. You can connect to any of these servers for the best experience with streaming content.

One thing you can count on ExpressVPN for is speed and effectiveness. This provider is the leader when it comes to getting around geo-restrictions. In fact, if ExpressVPN cannot unblock the platform, it is almost impossible that any other provider would. To show you how powerful it is, ExpressVPN even gets around the Great Firewall of China.

ExpressVPN is no slacker when it comes to security. This provider encrypts all of its servers using the military-grade AES 256-bit encryption. It also has a new cutting-edge protocol known as Lightway. You also get the standard kill switch, support for split tunneling, and a choice of other protocols when you connect to any server.

This provider affords you the luxury of watching Japanese Netflix on any device of your choice. It offers apps for mobile devices, personal computers, smart TVs, Amazon FireStick, and so on. On its website, you will even learn how to hook up the ExpressVPN app to devices that aren’t VPN-compatible. These include some smart TVs and game consoles.

ExpressVPN’s pricing for its subscription plans is a little above the average. However, it makes up for this by offering you a 30-day money-back guarantee window. Within this period, you could use the VPN and request a refund if you are unhappy with the quality of service received.

ExpressVPN is in general also a good choice for watching Japanese TV abroad, and works well with similar plattforms such as Japanese Hulu or GYAO overseas.

Cheapest Option

NordVPN

Overall score: 9.6

• Incredibly fast servers
• Great security features
• Verified no-logs policy
• Unblocks streaming platforms

Try NordVPN

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee!

NordVPN also makes the list of our top recommended VPNs for accessing Netflix Japan. This service provider is well regarded when it comes to streaming content. It has a SmartPlay feature that essentially makes sure that the process is seamless. More so, it automatically connects you to the best server for streaming, saving you both time and energy.

NordVPN has an impressive 5000 server list, with 80 available in Japan. Users located outside Japan but looking to access Japanese Netflix typically find this helpful. These servers are superfast, delivering content without the slightest buffering or lags. More so, if you need access to other streaming platforms, NordVPN comes to the rescue. Thus, you can unblock AbemaTV overseas, Japanese DAZN, Amazon Prime Japan, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and a host of others.

NordVPN does pretty well when it comes to security, too. It makes use of the AES 256-bit standard encryption on all of its servers. It also supports other protocols such as OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPSec. Just like ExpressVPN, it has its special protocol known as NordLynx. This protocol has been hailed for being cutting edge, speedy, and reliable. You can connect, with this provider, to the Onion Network for enhanced security. The standard security features like the kill switch, split tunneling, obfuscated servers, and DNS-leak prevention features are all present.

You will find apps for whatever device you are using. This provider offers support for iOS, macOS, Linux, Windows, and Android devices. You can connect 6 devices using just one account. You also get the standard 30-day money-back guarantee. If you have any issues, the provider has customer care personnel ready to tackle them immediately.

Best for Connecting Multiple Devices

Surfshark

Overall score: 9.5

• Allows unlimited simultaneous connections
• Integrates Stealth mode
• Multihop feature available
• 3,000+ servers

Visit Surfshark

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee!

Surfshark is a recent entrant into the VPN field. However, it is no pushover. In fact, specifically for streaming content and unblocking platforms, this provider takes no prisoners. On its website, it lists the countries it unblocks geo-restrictions in. You will be glad to learn that Japan is one of such countries. Hence, accessing Japanese Netflix from whatever location should be relatively easy.

This provider has more than 1700 servers in 60+ countries. Quite a number of those are located in Japan. When you connect to any of those, the Camouflage Mode is available. This keeps you below the radar of both the government’s firewall and Netflix’s. Furthermore, you can choose from either the OpenVPN or IPSec/IKEv2 protocols.  You can switch between either of them for improved security.

Similarly, Surfshark supports torrenting. It has specialized servers that are great for peer-to-peer file sharing. This is quite important because of the inherent dangers that come with torrenting files unprotected. Also, even if dangers from cybercrooks do not exist, your Internet Service Provider could throttle your traffic. Surfshark saves you this hassle.

Surfshark is quite remarkable because of its affordable pricing and plans. You can connect an unlimited number of devices using one account. This is hugely convenient. You can potentially cover all of your family and friends with that one account. Surfshark is also a good choice for streaming similar plattforms such as GYAO overseas or play DMM Games.

Easiest to use based on our tests

UltraVPN

Overall score: 0

• Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
• Unlimited bandwidth
• Cheap subscription plan. Starting at $6.99, save 22%

Visit UltraVPN

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee!

UltraVPN is one of the newest brands in the market. However, it talks a big game when it promises to unlock the world for its users. It hasn’t quite gotten to accomplishing this assertion, but it is well on its way there. If you are looking for a mid-tier provider with affordable plans, UltraVPN should be your destination.

This provider has a little over 1000 servers in 50+ locations. It has a few of those in Japan. Remarkably, its servers are P2P-compatible, ensuring that you have the best speeds and security for torrenting. Similarly, its speed for surfing, streaming, and download content is rather decent. It promises to unblock other platforms such as Hulu and BBC iPlayer.

UltraVPN has basic security features such as AES 256-bit encryption and an internet kill switch. It also does not retain any of your data when you connect to its network. This should reassure that even if a subpoena were to come from the government, you would be safe as can be.

The interface on UltraVPN apps is user-friendly. More so, the provider’s customer care system is topnotch. It assists live chats, emails, and phone calls in rare cases. You can be sure of your complaints being resolved within the shortest possible time.

Offers the best money-back guarantee

CyberGhost

Overall score: 9.3

• 45-day money-back guarantee
• 7,000+ reliable servers
• Strict no-log policy
• Tough security features

Visit CyberGhost

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee!

CyberGhost is a reliable provider for unblocking the Netflix library of any location. It has more than 6000 servers in 88 locations. With this ample number, you can access Netflix US, UK, and of course, Netflix Japan.

Apart from Netflix, this service provider also allows uninterrupted access to streaming platforms such as Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. The servers are fast and reliable. Although you may not get speed as fast as ExpressVPN’s, you can be sure of getting your content without hassles.

You can rest assured of stellar protection with a CyberGhost subscription. The provider secures your traffic with the AES 256-bit encryption on all of its servers. It also features DNS and WebRTC leak protection and comes fitted with a kill switch. You can also count on the fact that this provider will not keep logs of your online activities. It maintains a strict no-logs policy. Thus, even at signing up, you will only be required to input the essential details.

CyberGhost has apps for major devices. Whether you use a macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS device, you can download and install one to use. It allows for 7 devices simultaneous connections.  The process of setting up is quite straightforward. If you run into any challenges while setting up your account, this provider has a customer response system that will immediately sort out the issue.

Does a Free VPN Work for Accessing Japanese Netflix Outside Japan?

Several providers claim that they can grant you free access to any streaming platform – including Japanese Netflix. Is there any truth to this assertion? The answer is most likely in the negative. Free providers often have dilapidated infrastructures. The level of technology they employ is not up to par with what you find in the VPN market. This is because they often lack the finances to keep up with the latest innovations in the industry.

As already pointed out, Netflix has rather tough encryptions on its platforms. Thus, it would be hard for these free providers to break through using their subpar servers. Even if they do, you most likely will experience lags and slow downloads the entire time. It would make for an unpleasant experience.

Additionally, you could be exposing yourself to risks when you use a free provider. You could get hacked while using such. Also, these providers could gather your online data and sell them to data mining companies. You could then be spammed with targeted adverts and maybe even malware. In the worst-case scenario, your data could fall into the hands of cybercrooks. The loss that could come from that is better left to the imagination.

Generally, a paid provider is your best bet.

Features to Consider While Choosing the Best Netflix Japan VPNs

Below are a few features you ought to prioritize while choosing a VPN for accessing Japanese Netflix abroad.

• Japanese Servers Available
  An ideal provider should have servers in Japan. Else, the VPN will be of no use to you.
• Speed
  The VPN’s servers should be fast enough to deliver content without lags. VPNs typically slow down your internet speed for a bit. But the best ones make sure this is only minimal.
• Bandwidth Allowed
  For optimum streaming experience, the provider should allow you to stream with unhindered bandwidth.
• Privacy Policy
  Always ensure that the provider sticks to its no-logs policy. This way, you will not be in danger of getting exposed.
• Pricing
  First, make sure the provider’s pricing plans are affordable. Secondly, confirm that they offer a money-back guarantee – at least for 30 days.  

Why You Need a VPN to Watch Japanese Netflix

Firstly, it is noteworthy to know that you can not access Japanese Netflix outside Japan. However, with a VPN, you can unblock this service on your mobile and computer devices. 

If you are traveling abroad and cannot access your favorite Japanese movies and series, you can now do so with a VPN. Plus, it protects your data from snoopers and hackers who might want to compromise your online privacy and security.

There is also licensing on specific content on Netflix, resulting in differing content in the Netflix catalog based on location as the company is strict in distribution rights. Therefore these contents are not available to Netflix subscribers out of Japan.

You also get to anonymously browse the internet to prevent interference from the government, as Japan has stringent internet monitoring policies.

What is the best VPN to watch Japanese Netflix outside Japan?

The best and safest VPN for watching Japanese Netflix is ExpressVPN. It follows a tight no-log policy, and unlike other VPN services, it saves data on hard drives. It also employs the strongest degree of encryption available, 256-bit encryption. You may also try it out for 30 days with a money-back guarantee. In addition, ExpressVPN provides exceptional internet security and privacy and fast connection speeds ideal for any online activity, especially video streaming.

How do I get Japanese subtitles on Netflix?

Each region only has subtitles and dubbing in relevant languages. So you would need a VPN to bypass the Netflix geo-blocks and connect to Netflix. Using a VPN provider like the one we recommended above will help you access subtitles in different languages on Netflix.

Frequently Asked Questions on Watching Japanese Netflix Outside Japan

Is it illegal to use a VPN to watch Japanese Netflix outside Japan?

No, it is not illegal to use a VPN to watch Japanese Netflix outside Japan. In some cases, it depends on the country you reside. Using a VPN in some countries is unlawful; it doesn’t matter if you’re not using it to do anything illegal. You can get on the radar of security agencies if they catch you using a VPN. Additionally, Netflix might frown on you using a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and will temporarily restrict access to their servers if they discover you’re using a VPN. However, they only do this because of studios and producers that only have the license to broadcast within Japan. 

Will a VPN connection reduce the video quality of content on Japanese Netflix?

Yes and no. While VPNs generally reduce your connection rate because of the resources their servers use to ensure your connection is impenetrable, the best VPN services will reduce it to the barest minimum. This means you will not even notice any speed reduction. However, it is vital for you to know that the quality of your internet connection before connecting to a VPN server is the most important factor in the video quality of content you’ll watch on Netflix Japan. In some cases, a VPN can boost your internet speed if your ISP throttles your bandwidth, but it won’t do any miracle if you’re on a bad connection. 

Is it safe to use a VPN to watch Japanese Netflix outside Japan?

Yes, it is safe if you’re using one of the best VPN services available. The best premium services ensure they fortify the defenses of their users. You will see many sophisticated security and privacy features such as Double VPN, end-to-end encryption using a 256-bit encryption cipher, zero-logging, Tor over VPN, RAM-only servers, etc. On the contrary, we can’t assure you of safety if you decide to use a free VPN to watch Japanese Netflix outside Japan. 

What movies and shows are available on Japanese Netflix?

The catalog of movies and shows available on Japanese Netflix are numerous, especially animes. Some popular ones include Tokyo Revengers, Death Note, SAS: Red Notice, Jumanji: The Next Level, My Hero Academia, Tsukimichi, Nevertheless, Encounter, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Hit and Run, and Baki.

Conclusion

Connection to Japanese Netflix outside of the country is often impossible. You will get an error message when you attempt to. This automatically puts your favorite Netflix shows out of your reach if you ever have to travel out of the region. A VPN gives you a route out of this problem. This review discusses some of the best VPNs for this purpose. Subscribe, download, and use any for the optimum experience.