If you are in Japan and want to access apps or services in other countries, you can use a VPN to break the region’s restrictions. Still, if you are in another country and want to access exclusive content in Japan, you can use a VPN to connect to a virtual server in Japan.
Using a VPN also hides your IP address and protects your online privacy and security.
Below, we introduce the 3 best free VPNs for Japan and 4 paid ones. You can check the details below.
3 Best Free VPNs for Japan to Access Global Content
1. LightningX VPN
LightningX VPN is the top-recommended free VPN for Japan. It is full-featured, cross-platform, fast, stable, and cheap. Check its key features below.
Key Features:
- Offer 2000+ servers in 70+ countries, covering servers in Japan, the United States, Germany, Australia, Singapore, South Korea, etc.
- Unblock YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Telegram, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO, ChatGPT, and more.
- Hide your IP address and assign a new IP for your device. You can stay anonymous online.
- Equip robust security features. It uses encryption protocols like Shadowsocks, Vless, WireGuard, and uses strong encryption algorithms like AES-256 and ChaCha20-Poly1305 to encrypt and protect your data.
Pros:
- Offer 3 free servers.
- Cheaper than some other VPNs.
- Simple interface and one-click connection.
- Ultra-fast, stable, affordable.
- Offer different plans for different users, e.g., 1 Year, 3 Months, 1 Month, and 1 Week.
- 24/7 customer support.
- 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Only support 9 languages now.
Supported platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, TV, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Edge.
How to Use LightningX VPN in Japan:
- Visit the official website of LightningX VPN in your browser.
- Click the “Free Download” button to download LightningX VPN to your computer.
- Click the downloaded installer to follow the instructions to install LightningX VPN.
- Launch it after installation. Click “Start” to connect to the fastest server it automatically chooses for you.
2. Proton VPN
Proton VPN is another good free Japan VPN. It offers a free tier with no data limits, making it a good option for users who want privacy without worrying about bandwidth restrictions.
Key Features:
- No Data Limits: Unlike many free VPNs, Proton VPN doesn’t impose any data usage caps.
- Strong Security: Uses AES-256 encryption and offers a no-logs policy.
- High-Speed Servers: Although free users are limited to certain server locations, it still offers fast speeds on its free servers.
Pros:
- Free Server in Japan: Reliable server performance for users in Japan.
- Free Plan is Usable: You can use the free plan without major slowdowns, especially for light browsing.
Cons:
- Limited Server Locations: Free users can only access servers in a few countries, including Japan.
- Speed Limits: Free users may experience slower speeds compared to premium subscribers.
Supports platforms: Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Also read: 10 Best Free Japanese Movie Sites: Detailed Introduction
3. Hide.me
Hide.me is a no-logs VPN provider offering a free plan with decent speed and strong security. It’s a great choice for privacy-conscious users in Japan who need a free Japan VPN without sacrificing too much performance.
Key Features:
- 2GB Data per Month: Provides 2GB of free data every month, which is suitable for light browsing.
- AES-256 Encryption: Strong encryption for securing your online activity.
- No Logs Policy: Hide.me has a strict no-logs policy.
- Free Servers: Offers access to a few free servers, including a Japanese server location.
Pros:
- Solid Privacy: Strong encryption and no-logs policy for enhanced privacy.
- Fast Speeds: Free servers offer relatively good speeds for browsing.
Cons:
- Low Data Allowance: The 2GB limit is restrictive for users who want to stream or download large files.
Supported platforms: Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Also read: 15 Best Japanese Horror Movies of All Time
4 Best Paid VPNs for Japan (Tokyo)
1. NordVPN
If you are looking for the best VPN for Japan, you may also try NordVPN – one of the most popular paid VPNs in the market for unlocking and accessing global information.
Key features:
- Offer thousands of servers in 50+ countries. Users can always find a fast server regardless of their location.
- This VPN also employs advanced encryption standards including AES-256 to protect users’ data. It also offers several security protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec.
- It has a strict no-logs policy, which means it doesn’t track, collect, or share any user data.
- This VPN also includes a CyberSec feature providing additional protection for users’ data. It helps block malware, ads, and other online threats.
Pros:
- Bypass geo-restrictions.
- Enhance your online privacy.
- Fast and reliable connections.
Cons:
- The price may be higher compared to some competitors.
Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and browser extensions.
2. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another top Japan VPN. For Japanese users, you can use this VPN to easily unlock global information. It is known for its vast server network, robust security features, and high-speed servers.
Key features:
- Provides thousands of servers in 90+ countries.
- The high-speed servers ensure smooth streaming, gaming, and large file downloads.
- Allow users in Japan to easily bypass geo-restrictions to access content from all over the world including Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more.
- It uses strong encryption and advanced security features to secure users’ internet connections.
Pros:
- Fast and stable connection.
- Advanced security and privacy protection.
- Include a “Kill Switch” feature to block all internet traffic if the VPN is suddenly disconnected.
Cons:
- No free trial.
- The price may be higher than some other VPNs.
Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, and more.
3. Surfshark VPN
Surfshark VPN is also a good VPN for Japan. It offers comprehensive solutions to protect your online privacy and security and ensures you a private browsing experience. You can use this VPN to easily access global services, apps, or other information.
Key features:
- Offer thousands of nodes across 50+ countries. Help you bypass geo-restrictions and access worldwide content.
- Military-grade encryption methods to secure all of your data transmission. All of your online activities remain private and protected from hackers or surveillance.
Pros:
- Multi-device support.
- User-friendly interface.
- Easy to set up and use.
- The “CleanWeb” feature helps block ads or malware.
- Equip a “Kill Switch” feature.
Cons:
The speed can vary depending on the server location and the time of day, but it is normal.
Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and various browser extensions.
4. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN is also one of the best VPNs for Japan. It is known for its huge server network, user-friendly interface, and strong commitment to privacy. Both novice and experienced users can use it with no hassle.
Key features:
- Provide 7000+ servers in 90+ countries. Allow users to access content from anywhere in the world.
- This VPN uses AES-256 encryption to protect users’ data from hackers, ISPs, etc. It also features a strict no-logs policy.
- Advanced features like Automatic Kill Switch, Ad and Malware Blocking, Split Tunneling, etc. are also included.
Pros:
- Connect up to 7 devices simultaneously.
- Strong security features.
Cons:
Limited payment options.
Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, TV, Chrome, and Firefox.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best VPN for Japan
When choosing the best VPN for Japan, you may consider the factors below.
Server locations
The VPN should provide various VPN server locations and cover most countries/regions in the world (e.g., Japan, Asia, USA, UK, Europe, etc.).
Speed and performance
A great VPN should have a fast and stable network connection. The VPN speed may be affected by the server location distance, server load, etc. You can select a server closer to your location, and it may have a faster speed than distant nodes. For instance, if you are in Japan, you can choose a server in Japan.
Security and privacy features
If you intend to use a VPN in Japan, you should also consider the security and privacy features. After all, your data security and privacy are important. You can check the VPN’s official website to see if it uses encryption techniques like AES-256. You can also check if it has a strict no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, kill switch, etc.
Ease of use
The VPN should have an intuitive interface and support various platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Customer support
The 24/7 customer support service and live chat option ensure a quick response to your sudden problems.
Conclusion
This post introduces the best VPN for Japan, providing 3 free VPNs and 4 paid VPNs for your reference. The key features, pros, cons, and supported platforms of each VPN are introduced. You can choose a VPN tool based on your preferences.
