5 Best VPNs for Japan for Security & Streaming in 2024

Cybersecurity on Japan’s WiFi hotspots is a serious concern. Hackers easily use unsecured networks to steal your data, and the rise in popularity of Internet of Things (IoT) devices means that even private networks aren’t completely secure. So, you need a VPN with robust security features to protect your data, as this will let you securely access your accounts from anywhere.

But the truth is that finding a reliable VPN for Japan is not easy. Some are slow, and others lack the necessary security features to protect your data on public WiFi networks. My team and I tested over 70 VPNs to find the best ones with servers in Japan and globally. These have robust security features and excellent speeds for torrenting, streaming, and gaming safely and without delays.

After extensive testing, my top recommendation for Japan is ExpressVPN. It has excellent speeds, a ton of advanced security features, and multiple server locations in Japan. You can even try it with confidence knowing it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Japan in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Best VPNs for Japan — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Best Overall for Japan With Excellent Speeds and Robust Security

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Available on:

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Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN is undoubtedly the fastest VPN for Japan thanks to its proprietary protocol, Lightway. Our UK-based speed tester had a speed drop of 29% on servers in Japan, which was particularly impressive given that it’s over 5,000km away. Local servers reduced our speeds by only 1%, too. This makes ExpressVPN an excellent choice for streaming Prime Video Japan, DAZN Japan, TV Tokyo, and more in the best possible quality from anywhere.

We could play games on Japanese servers and the connection never dropped

ExpressVPN also offers a variety of strong security features. My favorite is its built-in kill switch, Network Lock, which ensures your data remains secure even if your connection unexpectedly drops. I tested this by randomly switching servers, and it always paused my internet until it re-established the VPN connection. So, you can rest assured that, even if your connection drops while you’re using public WiFi in Japan, your data is protected.

ExpressVPN has 4 server locations across the country (Tokyo, Shibuya, Osaka, and Yokohama). Most VPNs we tested only had one location in Tokyo. However, having more servers available contributes to this VPN’s fast speeds by reducing overcrowding. Plus, it means that no matter where you are, you’ll be able to find a fast nearby server to protect your data in Japan.

My only concern is that ExpressVPN is pricier than the other VPNs on this list. Still, it has generous year-round offers and discounts, which make it more affordable even for those on a budget. Plus, all plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without risking your money. I tried this for testing purposes and got a refund in just a few days.

Useful Features

• Works on restrictive networks. ExpressVPN's obfuscation technology disguises VPN traffic as regular internet traffic. This allows you to stream and game on Japanese networks that typically block VPNs, such as those in some schools and workplaces.
• Split tunneling. This feature lets you select which apps use the VPN and which don’t. For example, you can use the VPN to play online games like Apex Legends in Japan while streaming local news through your regular internet connection.
• TrustedServer technology. ExpressVPN's servers operate entirely on RAM, ensuring that all data is erased upon reboot. This feature is particularly beneficial for accessing sensitive services in Japan, such as your bank account.
• Japanese language option. ExpressVPN provides an interface and customer support in Japanese. This means that you can navigate the app and website in your preferred language, ensuring a more intuitive and comfortable user experience.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers in Japan for Streaming Without Delays

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

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Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost’s optimized servers make streaming and torrenting seamless. We regularly test these servers to ensure they handle high-bandwidth traffic efficiently. During our tests, we found the Japan streaming servers had no issues accessing Netflix Japan, Amazon Prime Video Japan, and more in great quality. Optimized servers are clearly labeled and organized by country, making it easy to find the best options for Japan.

CyberGhost even shows you the distance from your location to the server

Although not as fast as ExpressVPN, CyberGhost’s speeds are also excellent for streaming Japanese content in HD from anywhere. We had a 33% drop on servers in Japan and 11% on nearby servers, which meant we could binge-watch Delicious in Dungeon on Netflix Japan with no buffering and minimal load times. We also had no issues with DAZN Japan.

The app’s user-friendly design makes it ideal for Japan VPN beginners. To connect, simply select a server and click the prominent power button. The layout is straightforward, and you can favorite your frequently used servers for easy access.

A minor complaint is that its monthly plan is more expensive and offers only a 14-day refund period. However, its longer subscriptions are more affordable and have a generous 45-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try CyberGhost risk-free and get a refund if it’s not right for you.

Useful Features

• App Rules. This feature allows you to customize how CyberGhost interacts with specific apps. For example, you can configure it to automatically connect to a server in Japan when you open online games like Blue Protocol. This way, you can securely play with friends in Japan without exposing your data online.
• WireGuard protocol. This protocol is engineered for high-speed performance, making it ideal for quickly downloading large Japanese games or torrenting public-domain movies.
• Based in a privacy-friendly country. CyberGhost is based outside the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance and has a zero-logs policy. This means that it’s under no obligation to share any of your data with Japan or any other governments.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Adjustable Settings to Optimize Speed and Security on Japanese Sites

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

I like that PIA allows you to customize your security settings. This means you can get faster speeds for streaming Japanese TV in HD from anywhere or better security for browsing on Japan’s public WiFi. In our tests, we had a 41% speed drop on servers in Japan, but we were able to boost this by a few percentage points by opting for AES 128-bit encryption with the OpenVPN protocol. Nearby servers gave us a 17% drop, which was much better.

You can also opt for WireGuard, a newer and lighter protocol widely regarded as more secure. However, it's unfortunate that only a few routers currently support the WireGuard protocol, so you may have to stick with OpenVPN to protect your smart devices on your home network.

WireGuard only works with AES-256 encryption

One minor concern is that it's based in the US, a core member of the 5 Eyes Alliance. However, PIA has an audited no-logs policy and RAM-only servers. This means that even if it receives a request to share information, it won’t have anything to share.

You can try PIA for yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee and get your money back if it doesn’t suit you.

Useful Features

• Multi-Hop connections. Unlike other VPNs, PIA’s Multi-Hop reroutes your VPN traffic through a proxy server (either Shadowsocks or SOCKS5) to disguise that it’s encrypted. This can help you to get past restrictions on school and work networks in Japan without drastically reducing your speeds.
• Dedicated IPs in Japan. You can obtain a unique Japanese IP address exclusively for your use. This allows you to reliably and safely access your streaming accounts, online banking, and other services and may reduce the occurrence of CAPTCHAs.

4. NordVPN — Intuitive Mobile and Desktop Apps To Easily Connect and Start Streaming

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try NordVPN >

www.nordvpn.com

NordVPN's apps are user-friendly, making them great for VPN beginners in Japan. Installing the app on my Windows device was quick and easy, taking just a few minutes. The intuitive map interface made it simple to find and connect to the desired server during testing.

Using Quick Connect will connect you to the best server available based on your location

Although not as many as ExpressVPN, NordVPN has more than one server location in Japan. This means our speeds were fairly close to its competitor, with a 36% speed drop on servers in Japan and a tiny 4% on servers nearby. We had no buffering while streaming Death Note on Nippon TV.

The only issue we came across in testing is that NordVPN can sometimes take up to a minute to connect. However, when the connection was established, it was extremely consistent. We also tried reconnecting by clicking on the same location again, and it tried another server, which would connect in seconds.

As with the other VPNs on this list, it's possible to test NordVPN for free, and if not completely satisfied, you can request a refund within 30 days of subscribing.

Useful Features

• NordLynx protocol. NordVPN’s proprietary protocol is built on top of WireGuard to offer fast speeds with double NAT to ensure fast connections and strong privacy. This is ideal in Japan, as it’ll let you stream and game on its notoriously insecure public WiFi networks.
• Threat Protection. This feature checks each webpage you visit in Japan for malware, blocks ads, and can even scan your device to make sure you’ve not picked any threats up accidentally. If Japanese isn’t your first language, this is a great way to keep you safe on unfamiliar websites.

5. Surfshark — Unlimited Connections to Protect All Your Devices in Japan

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Surfshark >

www.surfshark.com

Surfshark supports unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can connect as many devices as possible under one account. This is ideal if you have a large family and everyone wants to protect their devices while using public WiFi networks in Japan. We tested Surfshark by connecting a PC, 2 smartphones, and an iPad to the same server and never saw any drop in performance in comparison to when only one device was connected.

The connection remained stable with no lag spikes or dropouts

I liked Surfshark’s in-app speed test feature, but you can't refresh it without disconnecting first. The 24/7 live chat confirmed this, and while reconnecting takes only a few seconds, it was slightly inconvenient during our tests.

You can try Surfshark in Japan for free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. If it doesn't meet your expectations, you can easily claim a full refund within this period.

Useful Features

• IP rotator. By regularly changing IP addresses, it becomes more difficult for advertisers, trackers, and malicious actors to monitor or profile your online activities. If you’re relying on Japan’s public WiFi networks, this will help protect your privacy.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs For Japan

When evaluating the best VPNs for Japan, we followed a strict testing process to ensure each service met your requirements. We focused initially on two main factors: having servers in Japan and strong security features to protect your online privacy. Then, we made sure each could safely access Japanese streaming platforms from anywhere, with fast enough speeds for HD quality.

We also checked to ensure that they support routers so you can protect all your devices, including smart home devices and IoT gadgets in Japan. IoT devices are notoriously insecure, making them a prime target for hackers and snoops. A VPN that works with routers is essential for protecting all your devices simultaneously.

FAQs on Using a Japan VPN

Why do you need a VPN for Japan?

A reliable VPN lets you stream, torrent, game, and more in Japan and anywhere else without exposing your data online. Using the internet in Japan, especially on public WiFi, comes with risks as there has been a notable increase in cybercrime in the country. Plus, under Japanese law, government agencies are able to snoop on your internet connection with limited oversight.

In addition, the rising popularity of smart devices at both home and work makes VPNs vital. These devices are often unsecure and offer hackers an easy way into the network. However, by installing a VPN on your router, your smart device traffic is also encrypted when it leaves your home, providing more security against opportunistic hackers.

Are VPNs legal in Japan?

Yes, VPNs are legal in Japan as long as you use them for legitimate purposes. In fact, many people in Japan use VPNs to safeguard their data on public WiFi or to protect their smart devices on their home networks.

Just note that some countries do restrict or ban VPN use (like China or Russia). Always check the rules where you are to avoid any legal issues.

How can I access Netflix Japan with a VPN?

A VPN with servers in Japan makes it possible to stream Netflix Japan in HD from anywhere. The VPN you choose should offer excellent speeds so you can securely watch without buffering.

1. Download a VPN. Choose a reliable VPN with servers in Japan so you can stream without delays.
2. Connect to a server. The closer the server is to you, the better your streaming speeds will be.
3. Start streaming. Open Netflix Japan and enjoy shows like Alice in Borderland and Cowboy Bebop.

Is torrenting legal in Japan?

You can only torrent copyright-free materials in Japan. The government strictly forbids downloading and sharing copyrighted content. Violators can face severe fines (up to $90,000) and prison time for violating these laws. The VPNs on this list are all P2P-friendly, and you can use them to safeguard your data while torrenting, but my team and I don't condone copyright infringement. So make sure that you always choose a file from the public domain to avoid any legal issues.

Is it safe to use a free VPN in Japan?

Yes, but I strongly advise against it. Instead, try one of our recommended premium VPNs with a money-back guarantee to ensure your online privacy and security in Japan. Free VPN services often have limited servers and impose bandwidth and data caps, so it's almost impossible to use them seamlessly.

Some also pose significant risks to your online privacy and security, especially on public WiFi. Plus, many free VPNs have also been reported for using shady practices like logging user data and selling it to third parties.

Is NordVPN a good option for Japan?

Yes, NordVPN is a great option for Japan. It offers multiple servers in Japan, ensuring fast and reliable connections. With strong security features and excellent privacy protection, you can browse and stream safely. Plus, NordVPN's high speeds make it perfect for streaming Japanese content without buffering from anywhere.

Get the Best VPN for Japan

Japan has very few internet restrictions, but the government can snoop on your connection at any time with little oversight. So, you still need a reliable VPN to protect your data from hackers and snoops, especially on public WiFi. Plus, VPNs with servers in Japan make it possible to stream local TV and movies in HD from anywhere.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for Japan because of its vast global network of fast servers and uncrackable encryption. Plus, it’s really reliable with Japanese TV platforms like Nippon TV and Netflix Japan, so you can enjoy local shows anywhere in HD. You can even try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Japan…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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