How To Get a Japanese IP Address With a VPN

Want to access region-restricted content, enhance your privacy, or virtually "travel" to Japan? A Japanese IP address may be just what you need.

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about getting a Japanese IP address with a VPN.

What is a Japanese IP Address?

An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to a device connected to the internet. A Japanese IP address means the device has been allocated an IP address within Japan‘s IP address range.

When you connect through a Japanese IP address, websites and services will think you are accessing the internet from Japan. This allows you to bypass regional restrictions and access Japan-only content.

Benefits of a Japanese IP Address

There are several key benefits to connecting through a Japanese IP address:

  • Access exclusive content – Many Japanese websites restrict content to local IP addresses only. A Japanese IP lets you access region-locked content on sites like Netflix Japan, AbemaTV, Hulu Japan and more.

  • Enhanced privacy – Connecting via a Japanese IP address can provide an extra layer of privacy when accessing the internet from within Japan. Your browsing activities become less traceable.

  • Virtually "travel" to Japan – Want to explore the Japanese internet landscape? A Japanese IP address lets you navigate Japanese sites and services as if you were in the country.

How to Get a Japanese IP Address with a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the best and most reliable way to get a Japanese IP address, no matter where you are located.

Here‘s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Sign up for a VPN service – Choose a reliable VPN provider that offers Japanese servers, like ExpressVPN, NordVPN or Surfshark.

  2. Install the VPN app – Download and install the VPN app on your device(s). VPN apps are available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux.

  3. Connect to a Japanese server – Launch the VPN app, log in, and select a server located in Japan.

  4. You now have a Japanese IP – Your traffic will now route through the VPN server in Japan, giving you a Japanese IP address.

When you connect to a VPN server in Japan, your actual IP address is hidden and replaced by a Japanese IP address. This allows you to bypass geographic restrictions and access the internet as if you were based in Japan.

Choosing the Best VPN for a Japanese IP

With hundreds of VPN providers out there, it can be tricky to pick the right one for accessing Japanese content. Here are key factors to consider:

  • Servers in Japan – Look for VPNs with multiple servers located in major Japanese cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Sapporo. More servers means faster speeds and more reliable connections.

  • Fast speeds – Choose a VPN that offers reliable connections and high speeds, otherwise streaming could buffer. Top picks like ExpressVPN perform very well.

  • Security features – Your VPN should use strong 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch and perfect forward secrecy for maximum security.

  • Device compatibility – Make sure the VPN has apps that work on your devices – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers and more.

  • Reliable customer support – Pick a VPN with 24/7 live chat support in case you need troubleshooting assistance.

Based on these criteria, here are my top recommendations:

1. ExpressVPN

With its combination of blazing speeds, rock-solid reliability and range of Japanese servers, ExpressVPN is my top choice.

Some of the key benefits include:

  • Servers in Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo and other Japanese cities
  • Fast speeds for HD streaming and lag-free browsing
  • 256-bit encryption and strict no-logs policy
  • Apps for all major platforms – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and more
  • 24/7 live chat support

Get ExpressVPN today!

Visit ExpressVPN

2. NordVPN

NordVPN is another excellent choice, with advanced security, a large server network and reliable speeds.

Highlights include:

  • Many servers across Japan
  • Tight security with AES-256 encryption
  • Apps for all major platforms
  • Respectable speeds for streaming and browsing
  • Live chat support

Visit NordVPN

3. Surfshark

For a budget-friendly option, Surfshark offers Japanese servers, good speeds and a range of security tools.

Key features:

  • Japan server locations in Tokyo, Osaka and others
  • AES-256 encryption and a private DNS
  • Unlimited device connections
  • Apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and more
  • Live chat support

Visit Surfshark

Alternative Ways to Get a Japanese IP

While using a VPN is the best approach, here are a couple alternative options:

Tor Browser

The Tor browser routes your traffic through multiple servers around the world, making your browsing highly anonymous. However, speeds can be very slow and you can‘t choose your exact IP address location.

Download Tor

Proxy Servers

Connecting through a Japanese proxy server can give you a Japan-based IP address. However, your data is unencrypted and proxies can be slow. Free proxies are also often unstable.

Is it Legal to Use a VPN in Japan?

Yes, it is perfectly legal for individuals to use a personal VPN in Japan. However, as with any country, you must comply with local laws when connected to a VPN.

Using a VPN to access copyright-infringing content or conduct illegal activities is prohibited. But accessing region-restricted streaming content through a VPN is generally considered legal personal usage.

Businesses and schools may have specific VPN regulations to follow. When in doubt, consult official guidance.

FAQ on Japanese IP Addresses

Can I watch Netflix Japan with a VPN?

Yes! Connecting to a VPN with Japanese servers will allow you to access and unblock the Japanese Netflix library. Make sure to choose a fast, reliable VPN that can bypass Netflix‘s VPN blocks.

Will I be able to read Japanese sites?

While a VPN gives you access to Japanese sites and content, it won‘t translate text to your language. You‘ll need to use a separate translator tool.

What if I can‘t access local services from Japan?

If you need to access region-locked services from your home country, disconnect from the VPN and use your regular home connection. Alternatively, set up VPN split tunneling.

Is it hard to find a free VPN that works with Japan?

Free VPNs often have slow speeds, limited servers and unstable connections. For the best experience, it‘s worth investing in a proven paid VPN.

Get a Japanese IP Address Today!

Unblocking the treasures of the Japanese internet is easy with a VPN. Simply sign up for a top provider like ExpressVPN, connect to a Japanese server, and start browsing!

With your new virtual Japanese location, you can explore and access a wealth of Japan-exclusive content and sites. Take your pick from anime, manga, gaming, shopping and more.

So why wait? Fire up your VPN and transport yourself to the fascinating digital landscape of Japan today!

Luis Masters

Written by Luis Masters

Luis Masters is a highly skilled expert in cybersecurity and data security. He possesses extensive experience and profound knowledge of the latest trends and technologies in these rapidly evolving fields. Masters is particularly renowned for his ability to develop robust security strategies and innovative solutions to protect against sophisticated cyber threats.

His expertise extends to areas such as risk management, network security, and the implementation of effective data protection measures. As a sought-after speaker and author, Masters regularly contributes valuable insights into the evolving landscape of digital security. His work plays a crucial role in helping organizations navigate the complex world of online threats and data privacy.