How to Watch U-Next Outside Japan (With a VPN Service)

The Japanese are known for their love for their TV shows and programs. Little wonder they have quite a number of streaming platforms delivering on-demand services. One of such is U-Next. Established in 2009, U-Next has come to be one of the most respected streaming brands in the region. It has a selection of over 20, 000 titles, some of which you cannot get anywhere else. However, one of the downsides is that you cannot watch U-Next outside Japan.

You cannot watch U-Next outside Japan because of the Copyright stipulations surrounding contents on the platform. U-Next only acquired the right to broadcast the videos on its platform to users in Japan. Hence, only people within the region can access these contents without restrictions.

In this review, we show how you can beat geo-restrictions and watch U-Next even when you are outside Japan.

How to Access U-Next with a VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) bypasses the blocks on streaming platforms such as U-Next. It does this by giving you an IP address compatible with the platform. When you connect to a VPN provider’s Japanese server, you get a Japanese IP address. Hence, U-Next will be none the wiser regarding your actual location. Furthermore, you will have unrestricted access.

Below are the step-by-step directions on using a VPN to access U-Next:

• Decide on a VPN provider
• Download and install the app
• Open the VPN app
• Connect to a Japanese Server
• Go on to U-Next’s home page and Stream

The Best VPNs for Accessing U-Next Outside Japan

Below are the top VPNs you can consider for getting access to U-Next from anywhere in the world. 

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

It would not be out of place to dub ExpressVPN, the king of VPNs. This provider has existed for quite a long time and has remained prominent the entire time. It boasts of impeccable features all around, some of which are used as standards in the VPN market. You can rest assured that you will be able to watch U-Next outside Japan.

ExpressVPN has no less than 3000 speedy servers in 120 locations. 5 of those servers are located in Japan. When you connect to any of these servers, your network will acquire a distinct cloak. This would keep you safe from hackers and other cybercriminals. At the same time, it would enable you to beat the encryption on geo-restricted platforms such as U-Next. You will get to stream and download content without interference.

For security, this provider makes use of the AES 256-bit encryption on all of its servers. It has the standard kill switch and affords you the convenience of split tunneling. You also get to enjoy other perks such as access to its obfuscated servers, and protection from Lightway, ExpressVPN’s state-of-the-art protocol.

ExpressVPN has apps for major operating systems. From Android to Linux to iOS, MacOS, and Windows, this provider has you covered. You can connect up to 5 devices using one account. More so, if you run into any challenges while using the VPN, you can contact this provider to have the issue resolved. The mechanism for doing so is fast and straightforward.

ExpressVPN is a good choice for watching Japanese TV abroad in general, such as shows like AbemaTV or GYAO.

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

Although NordVPN comes second on this list, it is no less remarkable than ExpressVPN. In fact, the two providers go toe-to-toe on several features. When it comes to bypassing the geo-block on U-Next, you can count on NordVPN to do a remarkable job.

NordVPN’s server count number more than 5500 and are located in more than 59 countries. Remarkably, more than 80 of those servers are in Japan. This gives you an inexhaustible list of options to choose from. Even beyond that, if you need to connect to other locations, you will be able to do so without any hassles.

This provider engages the standard AES 256-bit encryption for securing its data. It combines this with support for other protocols such as the popular OpenVPN. It has a Double VPN feature that routes your traffic through its servers twice, guaranteeing stronger security. Other ancillary security features such as split tunneling, malware, and adware blockers are also available.

You can also relax when it comes to privacy regulations. NordVPN states that it retains no data of activities that you carry out using its servers. It is easy to trust this assertion because NordVPN opened its doors to external auditors in 2018. Renowned auditors, PWS (PriceWatersCoopers) confirmed that there are no leaks of users’ data on Surfshark’s servers. Thus, you can expect that the provider will not sell you out even when pressured by the government.

NordVPN has apps for major operating systems. The process for download and installation is quite easy: you can find your device’s app on its website. It allows you to connect 6 devices to one premium account. Additionally, you get the standard 30-day money-back guarantee window. You will be able to request a refund within this period, no questions asked. NordVPN also works well with shows such as Hulu Japan or Amazon Prime Japan.

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’s chief attraction is its cheap subscription offers combined with fabulous security features. Although fairly new in the industry, this provider has managed to remain stellar, keeping the others on their toes. The expectation is that in a few years, it would completely overturn the VPN market.

This provider has 3200+ speedy servers across 60 countries, some of which are located in Japan. These servers are stable and offer you seamless access to U-Next even outside Japan. Additionally, this provider gets you around the toughest geo-blocks. Hence, with one Surfshark subscription, you get access to a plethora of geo-blocked sites, including Netflix, DAZN, Amazon Prime, and so on. It further supports P2P file sharing and torrenting.

Surfshark uses the AES 256-bit encryption for securing its servers. It also maintains an ironclad no-logs policy. You can trust that your data will be safe with this provider.

Surfshark has a few other standout features that make it a darling of VPN users. One of such is its Whitelister option that works much in the same way as split tunneling. You will get to decide the apps that come under the protection of the VPN and those that won’t. This is rather convenient, for instance, when you want to make use of your bank app. Furthermore, its NoBorder mode helps you go incognito, flying below the radar of countries with heavy censorship. Finally, it routes your network through several servers using the MultiHop option. This further tightens the quality of your encryption.

You can download and make use of Surfshark on any device you own. Even further, the provider allows you to connect an unlimited number of devices to one account. This is better than what you will find with any other provider. Surfshark is also a good choice for watching similar shows overseas.

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 claims that it affords you the luxury of unlocking the internet. It would then not be a stretch to expect it to connect you with U-Next even outside Japan.

UltraVPN has more than 1000 servers in 100+ locations, Japan included. These servers can bypass even the toughest geo-blocks to deliver content. This provider’s servers are quite speedy; thus, while streaming your favorite anime on U-Next, you can experience zero lags. Additionally, there are no bandwidth limits, so that should not be of concern to you. You can stream to your heart’s content with no challenge whatsoever.

This provider makes huge promises when it comes to protecting your data. Its encryption levels are so strong that you can expect that no hacker will be able to access your network. Even your Internet Service Provider (ISP) gets shut out of your network.

UltraVPN provides apps for major device types. You can connect as many devices as possible to one account. Its subscription plans are affordable. Also, you get the standard 30-day money-back guarantee. Within this window, you can change your mind about the VPN, request a refund, and obtain the same without any hassles. UltraVPN is like a dream come true.

Offers the best money-back guarantee

CyberGhost

Overall score: 8.8

• 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 no provider to joke with. It has been around for quite a long time and is recognized as one of the top tier providers you could trust. With 6000+ servers, 71 of them in Japan, we have no doubt that CyberGhost will grant you access to U-Next regardless of your location on the globe.

CyberGhost comes fitted with amazing security features. You get the standard military-grade Advanced Encryption Standard of 256-bit. It also supports great protocols. Furthermore, it affords you the luxury of other security features such as a kill switch, the ability to tunnel your traffic as well as obfuscation features.

This provider also has reliable privacy policies. Firstly, it does not retain any logs of your activities online. More so, its headquarters is in Panama. This region is renowned for its privacy-friendly policies. Your details will be as safe as can be on that network.

With each CyberGhost subscription, you enjoy unlimited bandwidth and traffic. The cap on your surfing will only depend on the amount of data you are willing to expend. It has relatively affordable plans, especially considered against the slew of options you get and the offers of other providers. You can connect 7 devices simultaneously to one account. Further, CyberGhost affords users a 45-day money-back period to make use of its service, although you will have to get on a subscription first.

How to Choose a Good VPN for U-Next

There are a few considerations you should have in mind while choosing a VPN for U-Next. Below, we provide you with a checklist to adhere to while making your choice.

Server Count

It is important to settle for a provider with a sizable number of servers. However, beyond that, the provider should have some servers in Japan. This is the only way you can break through the geo-restrictions on the platform. Thankfully, all of the VPNs under review have servers in Japan. However, the number of these servers vary. As already stated, the higher the number of (Japanese) servers, the better for you.

Speed

The speed of connection is another strong consideration to check off. This is because you will be using the VPN to stream content. Usually, you experience some reduced speed when you connect to a VPN. However, top tier providers make sure the speed difference is negligible. Again, the VPNs discussed here excel on that front.

Security/Privacy features

You need to be sure your security is guaranteed even while streaming. Thus, carefully go through the security features your provider of choice has. The provider should have the standard AES 256-bit encryption and a kill switch at the very least. 

More so, take a look at the privacy rules of the provider. Ideally, no aspect of your use with the VPN should be retained. This is known as a no-logs policy and prevents your details from falling into the wrong hands. 

Pricing

The subscription plans vary from one provider to the next. Check each out to make sure it is something you can afford. It would be great if the provider had a money-back guarantee. This is especially if you are going outside the country for a short while. You can subscribe, use the VPN, and request a refund before the time is up.

Is It Legal to Watch UNext Outside Japan With a VPN?

Yes, it’s perfectly lawful to unblock UNext outside Japan with a VPN. This is because most countries allow netizens to use VPNs for various reasons. Only a few governments regulate or restrict VPN usage for any reason. Members of this ‘club’ are the usual internet-restrictive countries. They include China, North Korea, Iraq, etc. So, suppose you aren’t in any of these countries. Then, you can watch your favorite content on UNext without the fear of legal repercussions.

However, suppose you use your UNext VPN for any illegal activities. You may then have legal issues. Therefore, it’ll be best to avoid the following illegalities while using VPNs:

• Illegal Torrenting: Several countries have peculiar laws on file sharing. For some, you can share any online materials. Conversely, some other countries don’t allow you to share copyrighted materials. Doing this over a VPN doesn’t affect its illegality. Therefore, it’ll be best to avoid illegal file sharing if you watch UNext from such countries.
• Hacking: Hacking generally refers to unlawfully accessing computer systems and networks. Usually, hackers bypass the system’s security structures to steal or compromise information. Notably too, most countries around the world have laws against such hacking activities. If you’re caught doing so over a VPN, you may face stiff penalties.
• Cyber Bullying and Stalking: Gone are the days when stalking and bullying had to be physical. These days, you can bully and stalk individuals online. Furthermore, several countries are updating their laws to curtail the harmful effects of these actions. Therefore, committing cyber bullying and stalking with your UNext VPN can have dangerous consequences.

There are many other criminal activities you can commit over a VPN. Therefore, it’s always best to just watch your UNext programs and avoid such actions. Finally, it’ll help to research your resident country’s VPN laws before using a UNext VPN.

Frequently Asked Questions on Watching U-Next Outside Japan

Will a VPN protect me from malicious entities while watching U-Next outside Japan?

Yes, a VPN will protect you from malicious entities looking to take advantage of anyone streaming on U-Next. VPNs have fortified defenses against bad actors or governments that want to spy on their citizens. Security features such as end-to-end encryption, double encryption, Tor over VPN, and malware protection are responsible for ensuring your connection is secure. Privacy features also contribute to your connection being safe. Features such as adblockers, zero-logging, and VPN servers operating without persistent memory. 

Should I use a free VPN for watching U-Next outside Japan?

No, we do not recommend using free VPNs for watching U-Next outside Japan. While some free VPNs might unblock the streaming platform, they will likely sell your data to advertising companies for revenue. This is because most free VPNs do not have other means of revenue, unlike premium VPN services. So, they look for other means of making money, such as creating an ad profile and selling it. Additionally, caps on downloads, bandwidth, and speed can frustrate anyone. It is in your best interest to pay for a VPN service and get value for your money. 

Will a VPN have any impact on streaming speeds while watching U-Next outside Japan?

Yes, a VPN will have some impact on your streaming speed. It can be positive or negative, depending on the situation. A VPN can increase your streaming speed if your ISP uses bandwidth throttling on your connection. Otherwise, a VPN affects it negatively. This is because your data moves through a VPN server before getting to its destination. Additionally, encryption also affects your speed negatively. However, premium VPNs ensure you don’t feel the reduction, except your connection was slow before connecting to a VPN. 

What is the best VPN for watching U-Next outside Japan?

ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two brilliant VPNs we can recommend. However, ExpressVPN comes out on top if we have to select one. Its server fleet in Japan will give you access to U-Next easily. Additionally, it has the sophistication needed to ensure it protects your connection and delivers on performance. Although it might be expensive for some people, its extended plans have discounts that allow you to pay less for more. Plus, ExpressVPN’s support team is ready to help solve any issues you might encounter trying to watch U-Next outside Japan.

Conclusion

It is unfortunate that you cannot watch U-Next outside of Japan. However, this review shows you an alternative path. Using a VPN comes with unique perks, beyond just gaining access to your favorite geo-blocked platform. We’d thus discussed some of the best providers in the market. Choosing any of them for your VPN needs will be a wise decision.