How to Watch Japanese Netflix from Anywhere with a VPN

Accessing Japanese Netflix content while traveling abroad or living outside Japan requires a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection. This technology enables you to connect through Japanese servers, making it appear as though you're browsing from within Japan itself.

Quick Guide to Streaming Japanese Netflix Internationally

Understanding Netflix's Geographic Content Restrictions

Netflix's content catalog differs dramatically across various countries and regions. A particular series available in Japan might be completely inaccessible from other locations due to licensing agreements and regional content preferences.

Netflix provides detailed explanations regarding content availability restrictions in different countries.

Factors Affecting Content Availability by Region

Several key factors determine whether specific television shows or movies appear in particular countries.

Regional Preferences and Popularity
Netflix curates content based on what they believe will resonate with audiences in specific regions. Popular content in the United States may not appeal to viewers in the United Kingdom, despite both countries sharing the English language.

Complex Rights Ownership and Licensing
Multiple studios or distributors often hold rights to individual titles. Netflix might secure Latin American rights for a movie before obtaining distribution rights for the United States or Canada.

Sometimes television shows or movies remain unavailable in particular regions because no entity is selling the rights, or another streaming platform holds exclusive distribution agreements.

While Netflix owns worldwide rights for most original productions, these titles occasionally remain unavailable in certain countries or regions for the following reasons.

When attempting to stream content unavailable in your current location, Netflix displays an error message indicating the content cannot be accessed.

To watch shows and movies exclusive to Japanese Netflix, your internet connection must appear to originate from within Japan's borders.

How VPN Technology Enables Japanese Netflix Access

Streaming platforms like Netflix determine your geographic location through your IP address, which serves as a unique identifier for your internet connection. This system allows them to display the content library specifically licensed for your country.

VPN technology functions by routing your internet traffic through private servers located in countries of your choosing. When connecting to a VPN server positioned in Japan, it effectively masks your actual IP address and replaces it with a Japanese one.

Consequently, Netflix recognizes the Japanese IP address and provides access to the complete library of Japanese shows and movies, regardless of your physical location anywhere in the world.

Understanding VPN Technology and Its Necessity

A Virtual Private Network creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. This technology serves multiple purposes beyond accessing geo-restricted content, including privacy protection and secure data transmission.

Step-by-Step Process for Accessing Japanese Netflix

Unlocking Japan's complete Netflix catalog from international locations is remarkably straightforward. Following these three essential steps allows you to stream exclusive Japanese content from virtually anywhere globally.

Step 1: Register with ExpressVPN

To create an ExpressVPN account, click the "Get ExpressVPN Today" button. After reviewing the pricing plans, follow the registration instructions provided.

Step 2: Download Application and Connect to Japanese Server

Following ExpressVPN registration, download and launch their application. Next, click the menu button within the app and search for "Japan" using the search functionality.

Select an available server and click the power button located in the center. This establishes your connection to a Japanese server.

Step 3: Access Netflix Through Japanese Connection

With your VPN maintaining connection to the Japanese server, open Netflix through your web browser or mobile application. Netflix should automatically detect your location as Japan.

Before logging into your account, you can verify successful connection through several methods.

URL Verification

Check your browser's address bar. It should display the Japanese country code, appearing as www.netflix.com/jp-en/. In comparison, a New Zealand connection would show www.netflix.com/nz/.

Language Menu Confirmation

The language selection options should now include Japanese (日本語) among the available choices.

When connection succeeds, your screen will display the Japanese Netflix interface.

After confirming you're accessing the Japanese version, log in using your standard Netflix credentials, select desired content, and enjoy streaming!

Popular Anime Available on Japanese Netflix

Japanese Netflix offers an extensive collection of anime titles unavailable in other regions.

 

Comprehensive VPN Service Comparison

ExpressVPN

Pricing	1 Month: $12.95/month 6 Months: $9.99/month 12 Months: $6.67/month ※ Subscribe to the 12-month plan through our exclusive website link and receive an additional 3 months free.
No-Logs Policy and Kill Switch	Yes
Number of Servers	3,000+
Countries with Server Coverage	105
Money-Back Guarantee Period	30 Days
24/7 Customer Support	Yes
Simultaneous Device Connections per Account	8 Devices
Company Headquarters	British Virgin Islands

ExpressVPN stands as one of the world's two leading VPN service providers, serving over 4 million paying subscribers. This service has earned exceptional ratings and popularity due to its outstanding connection speeds and reliability. Our comprehensive testing confirms these claims. ExpressVPN operates an extensive network of high-speed servers across 105 countries, providing users with diverse connection options. We have personally verified that even in China, known for its "strict internet controls," ExpressVPN maintains accessible servers for reliable connections.

Unlike most VPN applications that typically require 30-60 seconds from startup to server connection, ExpressVPN's client completes the entire process from program launch to server connection in approximately 10 seconds, eliminating waiting time and delivering an exceptional user experience.

ExpressVPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, never recording or tracking user VPN activity. The service also provides robust security protection, effectively blocking intrusive advertisements, malicious websites, and harmful blocking software.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Outstanding connection speeds Universal platform support with stable, user-friendly applications High-speed servers spanning 105 countries worldwide Premium security features with effective ad and threat blocking Implements strict no-logs policy Includes encryption keys and password manager Dedicated IP address options	Slightly higher pricing

ExpressVPN is Particularly Suitable for These User Groups

＼【VPN BOX Special Offer】／
Get an Additional 3 Months Free!

ExpressVPN Official Website

How Good is ExpressVPN? Comprehensive Analysis of Pros, Cons, and Security Features

 

NordVPN

Pricing	1 Month: $12.99/month 12 Months: $4.59/month 24 Months: $3.99/month
No-Logs Policy and Kill Switch	Yes
Number of Servers	5,800+
Countries with Server Coverage	60
Money-Back Guarantee Period	30 Days
24/7 Customer Support	Yes
Simultaneous Device Connections per Account	10 Devices
Company Headquarters	Republic of Panama

NordVPN has achieved the largest global market share through its premium service quality and exceptional balance between pricing, internet speed, server count, and geographical coverage. This VPN service has consistently maintained outstanding reputation among industry professionals and users alike. NordVPN prioritizes user privacy by implementing a strict no-logs policy and incorporates security features such as kill switch protection. The service provides round-the-clock customer support, ensuring users receive assistance whenever needed.

NordVPN operates over 5,800 servers across 60 countries, offering users extensive options to change their IP addresses to different nations according to their requirements.

After completing registration on the NordVPN official website, users can easily browse the internet securely with NordVPN by simply downloading their application.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Extremely affordable pricing (2-year plan offers nearly the industry's lowest monthly cost) Generous simultaneous device connection limits Extensive server count with widespread distribution Implements strict no-logs policy	Occasional connection delays may occur Geo-blocking bypass capabilities are somewhat limited

NordVPN is Particularly Suitable for These User Groups

＼ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee! ／

NordVPN Official Website

How Good is NordVPN? Is It Worth Using? Detailed Analysis of Pricing and Pros & Cons

 

Surfshark

Pricing	1 Month: $12.95/month 12 Months: $3.99/month 24 Months: $2.39/month
No-Logs Policy and Kill Switch	Yes
Number of Servers	3,200+
Countries with Server Coverage	100
Money-Back Guarantee Period	7-Day Free Trial / 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
24/7 Customer Support	Yes
Simultaneous Device Connections per Account	Unlimited
Company Headquarters	British Virgin Islands

Surfshark launched in 2018 as a newcomer to the VPN service industry, yet has rapidly gained popularity and earned an excellent global reputation through its competitive pricing and impressive performance capabilities within a remarkably short timeframe.

Compared to ExpressVPN and NordVPN, Surfshark may occasionally experience connection delays and has somewhat limited geo-blocking bypass capabilities, but it offers a significant pricing advantage. By selecting the 24-month plan, users can obtain VPN services at substantially lower costs than both ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Additionally, Surfshark places no restrictions on device connection numbers, enabling you and your family to use the service simultaneously across all devices.

Surfshark operates over 3,200 servers across 100 countries and regions, providing users with abundant choices for IP address changes. The service also implements secure no-logs policies, includes kill switch functionality, and offers 24/7 customer support.

After completing registration on the official website, users can easily and securely browse the internet by downloading the Surfshark application compatible with their devices.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Extremely affordable pricing (2-year plan offers nearly the industry's lowest monthly rates) Unlimited simultaneous device connections Extensive server count with broad geographical coverage Implements strict no-logs policy	Occasional connection delays may occur Geo-blocking bypass capabilities are somewhat limited

Surfshark is Particularly Suitable for These User Groups

＼ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee! ／

Surfshark Official Website

How Good is SurfsharkVPN? In-Depth Review and Pros & Cons Analysis

 

CyberGhost

Pricing	1 Month: $12.99/month 6 Months: $6.99/month 24 Months: $2.11/month
No-Logs Policy and Kill Switch	Yes
Number of Servers	9,600+
Countries with Server Coverage	91
Money-Back Guarantee Period	1 Month Plan: 14 Days 6 Month/24 Month Plans: 45 Days
24/7 Customer Support	Yes
Simultaneous Device Connections per Account	7 Devices
Company Headquarters	Romania

CyberGhost represents a powerful VPN service that excels particularly in unblocking access to specific websites. Through servers specifically optimized for Netflix access, users can experience ultra-fast connection speeds and buffer-free streaming entertainment. CyberGhost operates an extensive server network with over 9,600 servers deployed across 91 countries and regions, making it an excellent choice for cross-regional Netflix and streaming platform access.

Furthermore, selecting the 24-month package offers remarkably affordable pricing while providing an extended 45-day money-back guarantee period, which exceeds the industry standard of 30 days.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Exceptionally extensive server selection options Economical pricing structure (particularly excellent value for 2-year plans) Implements strict no-logs policy Specializes in bypassing geographical restrictions for Netflix and streaming platforms	May not function properly in China Connection speed is not its primary strength

CyberGhost is Particularly Suitable for These User Groups

＼ 45-Day Money-Back Guarantee! ／

CyberGhost Official Website

How Good is CyberGhost VPN? Is It Worth Using? Comprehensive Review

 

Private Internet Access

Pricing	1 Month: $11.95/month 12 Months: $3.33/month 36 Months: $2.03/month
No-Logs Policy and Kill Switch	Yes
Number of Servers	Not Disclosed
Countries with Server Coverage	84
Money-Back Guarantee Period	30 Days
24/7 Customer Support	Yes
Simultaneous Device Connections per Account	Unlimited
Company Headquarters	United States

Private Internet Access (abbreviated as PIA) maintains a solid third position in market popularity, following ExpressVPN and NordVPN. This excellent reputation has enabled PIA to secure a considerable global market share. PIA is renowned for its relatively long-standing history in the industry, while offering highly competitive pricing that makes it a more economical alternative to both ExpressVPN and NordVPN. Users who choose the 36-month plan can enjoy premium VPN services at significantly lower costs compared to these two major competitors.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Budget-friendly pricing (long-term plans offer nearly the industry's lowest rates) Extensive server location options (highly effective for geo-restriction bypass) Implements strict no-logs policy Unlimited simultaneous device connections per account Supports cryptocurrency payments Strong market presence and recognition	Connection speed represents its primary weakness

PIA is Particularly Suitable for These User Groups

＼ 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee! ／

PIA Official Website

How Good is Private Internet Access (PIA)? Is It Worth Using? Comprehensive Review

 

Expanding Your Netflix Library Through VPN Technology

VPN technology allows you to bypass geographic restrictions and explore Netflix libraries from countries worldwide. This means unlocking entire collections of popular movies, including the Studio Ghibli and Harry Potter series, that may remain unavailable in your region due to licensing agreements.

For example, connecting your VPN to servers in different countries grants access to these exclusive titles.

Studio Ghibli Movies

The beloved Studio Ghibli catalog is widely available on Netflix in numerous regions outside the United States and Japan. You can typically locate these films by connecting to servers in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France, and South Korea.

Harry Potter Movies

The Harry Potter saga is often available in Netflix libraries of countries including Turkey, Germany, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

Note: Netflix's licensing agreements change frequently, so availability in these regions can vary over time.

By connecting to the appropriate region, you can watch timeless Studio Ghibli classics and enjoy the entire magical Harry Potter series.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Using a VPN to Watch Japanese Netflix Legal?

In most countries worldwide, using VPN technology for privacy and security purposes is completely legal.

Do I Need a Separate Japanese Netflix Account?

No separate account is required. Your existing Netflix account functions globally.

The content library you see is not determined by the country where you registered your account. It is determined by the IP address you use to access the service. For example, even if you created your account in the Netherlands, connecting through a VPN server in Japan will cause Netflix to display the full Japanese content library.

Can I Use a Free VPN to Access Japanese Netflix?

While technically possible, using free VPNs to watch Japanese Netflix is highly unreliable and generally not recommended for several important reasons.

For secure, fast, and reliable streaming experiences, reputable paid VPN services are the optimal choice.

What Other Uses Does a VPN Have?

Beyond bypassing geographical content restrictions, VPNs enhance your online privacy and security significantly. Furthermore, they can be used to save money on subscription services like YouTube Premium and Netflix by allowing subscriptions from regions where prices are lower.

Conclusion

A VPN represents the simplest and most effective method for watching Japanese Netflix from anywhere worldwide. It not only provides access to exclusive Japanese anime and movies but also unlocks other geo-restricted content, including Studio Ghibli and Harry Potter films, by allowing connections to servers in various countries.

The process remains straightforward and accessible to users of all technical levels.

Complete Guide Summary

Selecting a quality service represents the most crucial step to ensure smooth and secure streaming experiences. For our top recommendations, see the list below.