Table of Contents
- What is a VPN in Japan?
- 8 Best VPN for Japan in 2026,January - Speed, Security and Streaming
- 1. ExpressVPN - Overall Best VPN in Japan
- 2. NordVPN - Best VPN in Japan
- 3. Surfshark - Affordable VPN in Japan
- 4. ProtonVPN - Fast & Secure VPN Option in Japan
- 5. CyberGhost - User-Friendly VPN for Japan
- 6. IPVanish - High-Speed VPN in Japan
- 7. PrivateVPN - World’s Fastest VPN Network in Japan
- 8. PrivateInternetAccess - Privacy-Focused VPN with Japan IPs
- Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN for Japan
- How to Set Up a VPN for Japan 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Can You Stream and Make Calls with VPNs in Japan?
- FAQ’s
- Conclusion
8 Best VPN in Japan for 2026,Jan – Speed, Security and Streaming
Imagine you’re sitting in a cozy coffee shop in Tokyo, sipping your matcha latte, connected to the cafe’s free Wi-Fi. It feels tempting, right? But what you don’t see is the silent threat lurking in the background. That open wifi network could easily expose your personal data to hackers, putting everything from your passwords to your banking information at risk.
Similarly, if you’re using a P2P network for torrenting in Japan, your IP address becomes an open invitation to hackers, be it cybercriminals, your ISP or even government surveillance. This exposure can lead to serious privacy breaches, legal issues and unwanted tracking.
To protect yourself from such online threats, it’s important to use a 100% reliable VPN.
In this article, we’ve reviewed, tested and then listed the top 8 best free VPNs in Japan that not only shield your internet activity but also come with powerful features like advanced encryption, IP masking and zero-log policies.
These VPNs encrypt your connection, protect your device from vulnerabilities and help you browse safely and anonymously. All the providers mentioned here are thoroughly reviewed and tested to ensure you get honest, unbiased details into their performance and strengths.
So if you’re in Japan and care about your online security and freedom, this article is worth reading.
What is a VPN in Japan?
A VPN in Japan is a secure, encrypted connection that hides your IP address and location while you browse the internet. It protects your online activities from hackers, ISPs, and even government surveillance, especially useful on public Wi-Fi. A VPN also lets you bypass geo-restrictions, enabling access to blocked content like foreign Netflix, VoIP apps, and news sites.
Take Tsu, a 22-year-old university student in Tokyo. Tsu loves watching Korean dramas and playing global multiplayer games. However, he often finds that some shows and servers are restricted in Japan.
After installing a VPN, he can now watch content from South Korea, access international gaming servers and use public Wi-Fi at his university without worrying about hackers or data theft.
8 Best VPN for Japan in 2026,January – Speed, Security and Streaming
Now that you understand what a VPN in Japan is and how it benefits users like Tsu, let’s make your decision easier. Below, we’ve listed the top 8 best VPNs for Japan and even highlighted their unique features to help you make the right choice.
⏰ TL;DR:
1. ExpressVPN – Overall Best VPN in Japan
2. NordVPN – Best VPN in Japan
3. SurfShark – Affordable VPN in Japan
4. ProtonVPN – Fast & Secure VPN Option in Japan
5. CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN for Japan
6. IPVanish – High-Speed VPN in Japan
7. PrivateVPN – World’s Fastest VPN Network in Japan
8. PrivateInternetAccess – Privacy-Focused VPN with Japan IPs
1. ExpressVPN – Overall Best VPN in Japan
As per the deep analysis run by our research team, we’ve listed ExpressVPN as a top-quality VPN in Japan, highly regarded for its advanced security tools, ultra-fast servers and intuitive user interface. Operating in more than 105 countries, it provides access to international content while protecting users’ privacy and personal data.
Among its advanced features is the Network Lock kill switch, which keeps your information secure in case of sudden internet drop, along with its self-owned Lightway protocol that boosts speed and ensures stable connections.
Moreover, ExpressVPN’s TrustedServer framework runs entirely on RAM servers, meaning no data is stored long-term, drastically reducing security risks. It has a no-logs policy ensuring that your online behavior is never tracked or recorded. ExpressVPN also supports multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and smart TVs, making it a perfect option for those in need of secure browsing and uncensored internet access.
Key Features
- Threat Manager: This tool prevents apps and sites from contacting trackers or harmful third parties, offering extra privacy and safety while you browse online.
- TrustedServer Framework: ExpressVPN’s infrastructure is built on RAM-only servers, which are automatically wiped clean with every reboot. This design prevents long-term data storage and strengthens system-wide privacy.
- Lightway Protocol: Created by ExpressVPN, this custom protocol delivers superior speed, dependability, and encryption. It quickly establishes secure links and remains stable even when users switch devices or networks.
- Split Tunneling: This setting lets users decide which apps or sites go through the VPN and which connect directly to the internet. It adds convenience while keeping critical data shielded.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $4.49 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan + 4 Months Free VPN Extra)
2. NordVPN – Best VPN in Japan
NordVPN, kept as the top VPN in Japan 2026 by TechRadar, delivers a nice set of tools aimed at boosting your online privacy and security. With one subscription, you can secure up to 10 devices simultaneously, ensuring safety across all your personal tech.
The provider boasts a massive network of more than 7,200 servers in 118 countries, offering stable and speedy connections worldwide. Its self-created NordLynx protocol, which is built on the fast and secure WireGuard foundation, guarantees efficient browsing with strong encryption.
Users are covered by a 30-day refund policy, offering a no-risk way to try the service. High-level tools such as Threat Protection Pro help block malware, ads, and trackers, while the Meshnet feature enables safe remote access to home or office systems. Additionally, the Dark Web Monitor keeps tabs on leaked credentials tied to your email, adding an extra layer of protection.
Key Features
- SmartPlay: A hybrid of VPN and Smart DNS, this feature helps bypass content restrictions with ease. It activates automatically when you’re accessing servers optimized for streaming.
- Meshnet: This option allows users to link as many as 60 devices securely through a private network, no matter where each one is located. It’s great for tasks like collaborative projects, private sharing, or gaming sessions on a virtual LAN.
- Threat Protection Pro: This tool actively filters out harmful websites, annoying advertisements, and tracking scripts. It even checks downloaded files for malicious content, improving your online security.
- Dark Web Monitor: NordVPN scans hidden web forums and databases for your email information. If any data breach involves your email, you’ll get immediate alerts.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $3.39 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan + 3 Months Free VPN Extra)
3. Surfshark – Affordable VPN in Japan
Next, our technical team found Surfshark as one of the best cybersecurity tools built to deliver both safe and unrestricted access to the internet. With a vast network of 3,200+ servers spread across more than 100 countries, including one located in Japan, it serves a wide variety of users.
Beginners enjoy its user-friendly design and round-the-clock LiveChat help, making it easy to get started. Meanwhile, gamers value its low-lag connections and features like Static IP and Split Tunneling, which help boost gaming efficiency.
Premium security tools such as RAM-only servers, Camouflage Mode (also known as obfuscation servers), automatic IP changes, an Auto-connect function, and a Kill Switch work together to ensure user privacy is maintained. For added peace of mind, Surfshark provides a 30-day refund policy, letting users explore the service without commitment.
Key Features
- CleanWeb: This feature actively filters out malware, tracking scripts, and intrusive ads, resulting in a more secure and enjoyable browsing experience. By removing these elements, it not only boosts safety but also helps websites load more quickly.
- Dynamic MultiHop (Double VPN): It enables traffic to be rerouted through two separate servers, offering enhanced protection and privacy. Users can manually choose the server pairs for entry and exit points, which not only increases speed options but also allows for better flexibility.
- Alternative ID: To shield users from identity leaks and digital profiling, Surfshark includes this option. This feature enables the creation of a fake online persona, including name and email, helping to protect genuine user data during virtual engagements.
- Rotating IP: With the Rotating IP setting, Surfshark assigns a new IP at regular intervals without breaking the VPN connection. This makes tracking your digital behavior harder for outsiders, significantly increasing anonymity.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $1.99 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan + 3 Months Free VPN Extra)
4. ProtonVPN – Fast & Secure VPN Option in Japan
What’s next is ProtonVPN, a Switzerland-based VPN provider, known for its 100% commitment to protecting user privacy and data security.
Its free subscription permits a single device connection, granting access to servers in three nations, offering limitless bandwidth, and maintaining a solid no-logs policy, ensuring full anonymity by not retaining any activity records. This makes it a great option for beginners, thanks to its simple-to-use interface and reliable basic features.
Those with more advanced needs can also take advantage of ProtonVPN’s powerful security settings and extra tools, making it a flexible solution for both casual and tech-savvy users. 24/7 live chat support adds to the convenience by delivering immediate help whenever necessary.
Key Features
- Tor Over VPN: For greater anonymity, ProtonVPN has integrated Tor support, enabling users to visit Onion websites and explore the dark web securely, without the requirement of installing the Tor browser separately.
- Secure Core Architecture: With Secure Core, ProtonVPN first directs your internet data through several servers located in privacy-conscious countries such as Switzerland, Sweden and Iceland before sending it to the end server.
- Split Tunneling: This option lets you define which apps or IPs should go through the VPN connection and which ones can connect to the internet directly, giving you more control over your traffic routes.
- NetShield Ad-Blocker: This is ProtonVPN’s DNS-level protection tool that eliminates ads, tracking scripts, and harmful software before they load onto your system. It secures your connection and boosts page load speeds by filtering threats early.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $4.49 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan)
5. CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN for Japan
Founded in 2011, CyberGhost is based in Bucharest, Romania, and widely recognized for its strong commitment to user privacy and a broad network of servers. With a massive pool of over 11,000 servers spread across 100 countries, it enables users to unlock geo-blocked content and safeguard their digital identity.
A 45-day refund policy is available, giving users a chance to explore the service without financial risk. Supporting up to 7 devices at the same time, CyberGhost is a perfect choice for both individuals and households.
The VPN comes equipped with advanced features such as AES 256-bit encryption, a zero-logging policy, a kill switch, and dedicated servers for streaming, gaming, and P2P activities. CyberGhost works easily with all major operating systems and device types, offering broad and effective digital security across the board.
Key Features
- Extensive Server Presence: With 11,000+ servers across 100 countries, CyberGhost offers fast and stable access to global content with low-latency connections.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: CyberGhost supports a wide array of devices and systems, Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and more, enabling you to secure multiple gadgets under one account.
- Dedicated Server Options: The VPN includes custom servers for streaming media, competitive gaming, and torrent file sharing, delivering optimal speeds and experiences for each use case.
- Zero-Logging Commitment: CyberGhost enforces a no-log policy, ensuring that none of your online activities are tracked, collected, or stored, prioritizing user anonymity.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $2.04 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan + 2 Months Free VPN Extra)
6. IPVanish – High-Speed VPN in Japan
Next option that web scrapers and Japanese anime watchers can go for is IPVanish! This VPN tool is a strong and adaptable VPN solution designed to meet the needs of both personal and professional users.
Boasting a vast network of 2,400+ servers across 109 nations, it offers broad global access and consistent performance. It accommodates several VPN protocols, such as IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPSec, letting users pick the one that fits their preferences.
Security-wise, IPVanish doesn’t hold back! It includes AES-256 encryption, an effective kill switch, and a zero-log policy for maximum privacy. Moreover, one subscription lets you connect unlimited devices, making it an affordable pick for users with multiple gadgets.
Key Features
- Connect Unlimited Devices: With IPVanish, you’re not limited by the number of gadgets you can protect. A single account covers all your devices, making it perfect for families or users with a wide range of tech devices, providing total digital safety.
- Wide Server Reach: Thanks to its network of over 2,400 servers in 109 different locations, IPVanish gives users plenty of options for quick and dependable connections wherever they are.
- Live Chat Support Round-the-Clock: If it’s a late-night setup question or a technical issue, IPVanish has your back with 24/7 support via Live Chat. Help is always just a message away!
- Variety of VPN Protocols: IPVanish is compatible with several tunneling protocols like IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IPSec. This range gives users the freedom to choose the optimal blend of speed, encryption, and compatibility.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $2.19 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan)
7. PrivateVPN – World’s Fastest VPN Network in Japan
Well-known for its simple VPN solution, PrivateVPN ensures a protected digital experience. It enables users to overcome location-based blocks and enjoy access to content from nearly any region globally.
Operating in accordance with strict Swedish privacy regulations, it follows a no-log policy, guaranteeing complete confidentiality of users’ online behaviors. Using AES-256 encryption with a 2048-bit key, it delivers military-level safety for your online activities.
This robust encryption method shields personal data from cybercriminals, surveillance entities, and security threats. With unlimited speed and bandwidth, users can enjoy seamless streaming and downloads without experiencing lag or buffering delays.
Key Features
- Expert-Level Customer Support: It connects users with its in-house team of VPN specialists, delivering prompt and accurate assistance through their 24/7 LiveChat service.
- Stealth VPN Mode: With the Stealth VPN feature, PrivateVPN masks VPN traffic to resemble standard HTTPS data, letting users evade firewalls and VPN restrictions in countries with heavy censorship.
- Port Forwarding Support: It includes port forwarding, which helps improve peer-to-peer sharing. This functionality leads to smoother connectivity and quicker downloads, especially for torrenting users.
- Kill Switch and App Guard: The integrated kill switch instantly halts your internet if the VPN connection fails, reducing the risk of leaks. The App Guard lets you choose specific applications to shut down when the VPN drops, offering heightened security.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $2 per month (2 Year Purchase Plan)
8. PrivateInternetAccess – Privacy-Focused VPN with Japan IPs
Now rounding off the list, Private Internet Access (commonly known as PIA) is a top-tier open-source VPN provider, widely recognized for its commitment to user privacy and transparency. HQ in the US, PIA offers a large-scale network covering 91 countries, plus offering users robust worldwide accessibility.
A major highlight is its zero-logs commitment, meaning it doesn’t record or monitor user behavior, enhancing online privacy. With a single plan, users can connect unlimited devices, making it highly suitable for families or users juggling multiple gadgets.
Apart from basic VPN offerings, PIA also delivers VPN-enabled routers and antivirus tools, extending solid online safety measures. These added features ensure users can enjoy private and secure browsing across all internet-connected platforms.
Key Features
- MACE for Ad & Malware Blocking: This feature actively prevents ads, tracking scripts, and harmful content directly at the DNS layer. It blocks threats before they even reach your device, ensuring a safer and ad-free web experience, without extra installations.
- Sophisticated Split Tunneling: It enables users to send specific apps or IPs through the encrypted VPN, while the rest can use regular internet. This dual-routing is handy for those needing simultaneous access to public and local resources.
- Open-Source Clarity: PIA delivers fully open-source VPN clients! This openness enables both users and cybersecurity professionals to examine the code, ensuring transparency and identifying any potential risks.
- Automated Network Rules: With customizable automation, users can program the VPN to auto-activate or disconnect depending on network types. It can turn on automatically when joining unsecured Wi-Fi, offering hands-free protection every time.
Pricing
- Starting Price: $1.78 per month (3 Year Purchase Plan + 3 Months Free VPN Extra)
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN for Japan
It’s truly challenging to get the best VPN for Japan when so many options claim that title and all seem nearly the same at first glance. With so many services offering advanced features like high-speed servers, military-grade encryption and zero‑logs policies, choosing the right one becomes confusing.
To make your decision easier, here are 5 key points you need to consider when choosing a VPN for Japan:
Server Presence & Speed in Japan
A strong VPN for Japan must have numerous fast and reliable servers in the country. Providers like NordVPN (with 130+ servers) and Surfshark offer consistently high speeds suitable for streaming and gaming.
Ability to Unblock Streaming Services
If you want to access platforms like Netflix Japan, Hulu U.S. in Japan, and Disney+, your VPN must actively bypass VPN blocks. NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN are frequently seen for reliably accessing Japanese Netflix and other major services. These providers maintain rotating IP addresses and Smart DNS features to stay ahead of VPN detection efforts.
Security, Privacy & No‑Logs Policy
If you’re using public Wi‑Fi in Tokyo cafes or airports, then looking for strong encryption (AES‑256), a kill switch, leak protection and a transparent no‑logs policy is a must. NordVPN has undergone multiple third‑party audits and offers advanced features like NordLynx, Obfuscated and Double VPN servers.
Device Compatibility & Usability
Choose a VPN that supports all your device connections like mobile, desktop, router, smart TV. An intuitive app minimizes issues when traveling. Surfshark allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for families or multiple devices.
Price, Trials & Refunds
Price matters a lot, but so does value! Subscriber deals typically offer the best rates like Surfshark can be as low as $1.99 per month (as already discussed in the article), while NordVPN and ExpressVPN regularly run deep discounts or free‑month offers. Also pay attention to trial periods and 30‑day money‑back guarantees so you can test performance.
How to Set Up a VPN for Japan 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)
In this guide, we’ve assisted you in setting up a VPN in Japan right from scratch. We’ve explained how you can purchase a VPN, complete the payment and then use the VPN service to unblock geo-restricted streaming content safely. We’ll also include important screenshots to guide you better with the setup procedure.
- To begin, Go to SurfShark’s official website (We’ve selected SurfShark here because it provides all important features to browse blocked content securely, use public Wi-Fi safely, and much more) -> Tap on the Get SurfShark button.
- Select one of the three subscription plans (Opt for the longer-term plan to receive a good deal) -> Click on the Get Starter option.
- Type in a valid email address -> Pick your preferred payment method (we highly recommend you to use BitCoin for better anonymity as it keeps your personal information private) -> After the transaction is completed -> Hit the Complete Purchase tab.
- Next, log in to your SurfShark account using your email and password -> You will redirect to your SurfShark account dashboard.
- Find the Download tab on the left-hand side menu -> Press the download icon as shown in the screenshot provided below.
- Here’s what the SurfShark VPN app interface looks like -> It has a very user-friendly layout and settings can also be adjusted with just a single click -> You can automatically connect to the closest server (in Japan) -> Activate the Kill Switch from the settings menu.
In this tutorial, we’ve gone with SurfShark! However, you’re free to choose from any of the 8 VPNs listed above. The steps for downloading and setting up the app are quite similar, so you can follow along using the screenshots for reference.
Can You Stream and Make Calls with VPNs in Japan?
Yes! With the right VPN, you can do both, streaming and VoIP calls, seamlessly in Japan.
As far as streaming is concerned, VPNs like NordVPN, Surfshark and ExpressVPN are good as they unblock services like Netflix Japan, U.S. Hulu, and Disney+ with fast, buffer‑free performance. Proton VPN also specifically points out 400% faster streaming with its VPN Accelerator, perfect for anime and J-dramas.
If we talk about Voice & Video Calls, VPN in Japan simply encrypts your connection. They don’t generally interfere with VoIP protocols like Skype, Zoom, LINE, or WhatsApp. In fact, secure Japan VPN apps like ProtonVPN and NordVPN mention unlocking VoIP and video calls as a core feature.
FAQ’s
What is the Best VPN to use for Japan?
If you’re in Japan or planning to visit, ExpressVPN is the best choice for VPN in Japan. It offers blazing-fast speeds, unbeatable security and works smoothly for streaming, gaming and browsing. The connection is super stable and the privacy features are top-notch. It also gives you speed and safety at the same time. It’s worth every dollar, especially if you want online privacy and freedom.
Is using a VPN legal in Japan?
Yes! Using a VPN is 100% legal in Japan! There are no laws that ban or restrict the use of VPN in the country. In fact, with growing concerns about online privacy and hacking risks on public Wi-Fi, using a VPN is more like a smart move than a legal risk. As long as you’re not doing anything illegal while using the VPN, you’re completely safe.
Is Japan a good VPN location?
Absolutely, it is! Japan is a fantastic VPN location. Its internet infrastructure is super fast and there are multiple high-speed servers available there from top VPN providers. That means you get fast connections if you’re in or outside Japan. Plus, if you want access to Japanese exclusive content, using a VPN with servers in Japan is the easiest way.
Is there a free VPN in Japan?
Sure it is there! There are free VPNs that say they offer servers in Japan, but free VPNs are not always worth using. They’re slow, unreliable and often unsafe. Some even log your data or bombard you with ads. If your goal is to stay secure, private and enjoy smooth streaming, a paid VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN is a much smarter choice.
Why Do You Need a VPN in Japan?
You need a VPN in Japan to protect your data, especially when using public Wi-Fi in places like cafes, hotels, or airports. Hackers can easily see your information in these networks. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your traffic. It’s also super useful if you want to access global content, like watching U.S. Netflix, using VoIP apps or unlocking geo-blocked websites.
Which VPN is best for VoIP calls in Japan?
When it comes to VoIP apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Zoom, ExpressVPN is the best VPN in Japan. It provides fast, stable and secure connections that ensure your voice and video calls never lag or drop. Plus, it bypasses ISP throttling, so your calls are always crystal clear.
Can I stream Netflix with a VPN in Japan?
Yes and it works great! With a reliable VPN in Japan like NordVPN or Surfshark, you can unlock a lot of Netflix libraries, including US, UK, and Japanese content. These VPNs easily bypass Netflix’s geo-restrictions and stream in HD without buffering. If you’re a NetFlix-watcher or just want more shows and movies, a good VPN is your golden ticket.
Conclusion
A VPN acts like a mask for your digital identity! It hides your real face from the world and shields you from those who try to watch your every move.
In Japan, using a VPN means your IP address stays hidden, and no hacker or internet service provider can trace your online activity. Beyond just privacy, it opens up access to geo-restricted content like the Japanese Netflix library and popular anime or manga series that are otherwise unavailable outside Japan.
In this blog, we’ve covered in-depth the 8 best VPN in Japan, offering you a detailed and completely unbiased look at their features and performance.
If you’re still unsure about which option to go for, we highly recommend trying NordVPN. It is perfect as it offers advanced VPN protocols, powerful threat protection, built-in ad blocker, streaming and torrenting-friendly servers and offers both a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
It’s not compulsory that you choose only NordVPN, you can go through the detailed review done here in this article on all VPNs and choose as per your need and budget.
Looking for other VPN Server? Here you go-
