Netflix’s expansion into Japan has brought endless opportunities for foreign-language content lovers. However, the platform’s limited catalog for non-Japanese markets leaves manga and anime fans yearning for some of the rare shows licensed by Japanese production companies. Accessing Japanese Netflix can be quite the task for most, and understandably so. As of today, a simple Netflix subscription will not suffice.
But why is it a challenge to watch Japanese Netflix?
Although Netflix provides its services in almost every region of the world, the international video streaming giant has to operate under the territorial licensing agreements with content providers. Put simply. This means that with a Japanese IP address, you can access Netflix Japan, while IP addresses from other regions like the US will remain restricted from accessing Japanese Netflix.
Don’t worry, we have the solution! In this article, we will help you get around this problem and connect to Japanese Netflix with the use of the best VPN for Netflix subscribers in 2023.
What is a VPN?
To access Japanese Netflix, it is essential to understand what a VPN is. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a service used to connect your device to an internet server so that your traffic seems to originate from the server you are connected to, which can be located anywhere in the world.
With a VPN, you can choose from different server locations and even countries to access the internet. In simpler terms, a VPN creates a virtual tunnel between your device and a server in the location of your choice. This tunnel will then route all internet activity through the server location you have selected, giving you a new online identity in the process.
Why do you need a VPN to watch Japanese Netflix?
As previously mentioned, Netflix US and Netflix Japan have different catalogs, and Japanese titles can only be accessed in Japan due to licensing issues. However, if your IP address indicates you are not in Japan, you will not have access to the Japanese catalog.
A VPN allows you to change your IP address and location so you can connect to a server in Japan and access Japanese Netflix. Once you are connected to a Japanese server through your VPN software, you have a Japanese IP address, which allows you to bypass the geo-restrictions put in place by Netflix.
Best VPN for Netflix in 2023
Since Netflix makes it challenging to access content from different regions, many VPN services do not work with this streaming service. While some VPNs have been blocked in the past, there are still some that work effectively. Below are our top recommendations:
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is our best pick for Netflix because of its fast connection, secure service, and vast server network. It has over 5000 servers in 59 countries, making it easy to connect to any region that you are interested in. The provider also comes with smart DNS technology, which enables smooth streaming no matter where you are located. The provider also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose by trying it out.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another excellent VPN for Netflix in Japan, and it’s simple and easy to use. It features fast download speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and supports numerous devices, including iOS, Android, and desktop. With a server network of over 3000 servers in 94 countries, you can easily connect to a Japanese server to access your favorite Netflix shows. The provider also comes with a money-back guarantee period of 30 days, and customer support is available 24/7.
3. Cyberghost
The easy-to-use Cyberghost is another excellent VPN for accessing Japanese Netflix with over 6700 servers in 90 locations around the world. It has excellent security features and provides military-grade encryption, a no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch feature. With Cyberghost, you can unblock Japanese Netflix and access other region-locked content with ease. With a 45-day money-back guarantee, you can test the provider risk-free!
Conclusion
If you’ve been struggling to access Japanese Netflix due to geo-restrictions, a VPN is your solution. With a VPN, you can easily connect to a Japanese server and unlock Japanese Netflix with ease. In our view, NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Cyberghost are the most reliable VPN services for Netflix users in 2023.