How To Get a Japanese IP Address With a VPN | All About Cookies

Have you ever tried accessing your favorite websites or apps, only to be blocked because of your location? A Japanese IP address acts like a passport, granting you access to unique content available only in Japan.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how a virtual private network (VPN) can provide a Japanese IP address to unlock region-exclusive goodies. You’ll also learn about the top-recommended VPNs, alternative methods, and using VPNs to enhance online privacy in Japan.

Whether you’re an anime fanatic or a curious traveler, read on to discover how to explore the fascinating digital landscape of Japan!

What is a Japanese IP Address?

Every device connected to the internet has a unique IP address assigned by the internet service provider (ISP). This IP address pinpoints your location.

For example, an IP address from Japan will be registered to a Japanese ISP. When you visit websites or use geo-restricted apps, they check your IP address location to determine your access.

A Japanese IP address allows you to:

• Access streaming sites exclusive to Japan like Rakuten TV and AbemaTV
• Unblock Japan-only content on global sites like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video
• View Japan-specific portals, libraries, and databases
• Get local discounts and deals on hotels, flights, and shopping
• Play Japan-only games and access special in-game content
• Read manga, watch anime, and explore other Japanese pop culture

But how do you actually obtain a Japanese IP address if you don’t live in Japan?

Use a VPN to Get a Japanese IP Address

A virtual private network or VPN allows you to change your IP address to match any server location. Here’s a quick primer on how VPNs work their magic:

1. You connect to a VPN server in Japan.
2. Your internet traffic is encrypted and routed through this server.
3. Websites see the IP address of the VPN server rather than your actual public IP address.
4. To websites, it now appears as if you are browsing from Japan!

When you connect to a VPN server in Tokyo, your IP address gets swapped with a Japanese address, fooling geo-blocks and allowing you to access region-restricted content.

VPN Server Locations

For the best results, choose a VPN with plenty of servers located within Japan. Top providers like ExpressVPN have servers across Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, and other major hubs.

A wider range of server locations minimizes the chances of congestion during peak times and provides more IP address options within Japan.

Encrypted Tunnels

VPN tunnels encrypt all data between your device and the VPN server, shielding your traffic from external parties. This prevents snooping by hackers, ISPs, or even government authorities.

Hiding Your Real Location

Your public IP address can expose both your identity and your exact geographical location. However, a VPN masks this by assigning you the IP of its server, keeping your real location private.

Bypassing Censorship & Geo-blocks

VPN encryption also allows you to circumvent geo-restrictions as well as censorship like website or content blocking based on your location.

This makes VPNs a very useful privacy and security tool within Japan. Later, we’ll discuss the benefits of using a VPN in Japan in more detail.

First, let’s look at the top VPNs recommended for obtaining a Japanese IP address.

Best VPNs for a Japanese IP Address

While there are countless VPN services out there, not all are created equal when it comes to accessing Japanese content. Here are the top recommended VPNs for getting a Japanese IP address:

1. ExpressVPN – Fastest in Japan

With consistently blazing speeds and intuitive apps, ExpressVPN is our top choice for streaming and browsing seamlessly with a Japanese IP address.

Some standout features:

• Lightning speeds – ExpressVPN tops speed tests thanks to wide channel VPN servers and unlimited bandwidth. This ensures smooth HD streaming from Japan.
• Top server network – With 12 locations across Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, and Sapporo, ExpressVPN offers the largest and most reliable server network in Japan.
• Easy-to-use apps – User-friendly apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and browsers make using ExpressVPN a breeze.
• Reliable connections – ExpressVPN unblocks virtually any website and constantly refines its service to prevent VPN blocking.

With best-in-class speeds, apps, and reliability, ExpressVPN is the premier choice for unblocking Japanese content and enhancing your privacy in Japan.

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2. NordVPN – Most Secure

If you prioritize privacy above all else, NordVPN is a highly secure choice thanks to features like:

• Next-gen encryption – NordVPN uses AES-256 encryption with SHA384 for advanced security.
• Onion over VPN – Extra encryption by routing traffic through the Onion network before encrypting through NordVPN.
• Malware blocking – In-built CyberSec feature blocks ads, malvertising, and harmful sites.
• Kill switch – Instantly cuts off the internet if your VPN connection drops, preventing data leaks.

Along with elite security and privacy, NordVPN also provides:

• Hundreds of fast servers in Tokyo and around Japan.
• Consistent speeds for buffer-free streaming.
• User-friendly apps across all major platforms.

With a laser focus on privacy, NordVPN is a leading choice for users in Japan.

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3. CyberGhost – Easiest to Use

CyberGhost VPN makes it simple for users of all skill levels to connect in Japan with its intuitive interface and pre-configured profiles.

Some highlights include:

• User-friendly apps – One-click connection and profiles for streaming, torrenting, etc. minimize complexity.
• Decent Japan network – Has 60+ fast servers across Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo.
• Unblocks streaming sites – Pre-optimized streaming profiles allow easy access to Netflix Japan, Hulu, and more.
• Affordable pricing – Long-term plans bring costs down to just a few dollars per month.

With capable speeds, easy setup, and strong unblocking abilities, CyberGhost is a great pick for new VPN users.

Get CyberGhost >

When comparing VPN services, look for factors like price, number of simultaneous device connections, customer support quality, and refund policy as well.

While free VPN services do exist, it‘s better to avoid them. Most lack the speed, stability, security, and servers needed to unblock geo-restricted Japanese content seamlessly.

Next, let’s look at how to configure your VPN of choice to access the Japanese internet.

How to Setup a VPN for a Japanese IP Address

The process of connecting to a VPN server in Japan takes just minutes and is easy across all devices:

1. Select a suitable VPN service – ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost are all excellent choices.
2. Create an account and download the respective VPN app for your device type – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, etc.
3. Install and launch the VPN app. Enter your account details to log in.
4. Choose a server located in Japan. Make sure it specifies Tokyo, Osaka, or another Japanese city rather than just broader regions like Asia.
5. Click the Connect button. The app will now connect you to the chosen Japanese server.

Once connected, your IP address will be replaced by a Japanese address, allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions.

Visit sites like https://whatismyipaddress.com/ to confirm your IP now shows a Japanese location.

The process remains the same across desktops, mobiles, tablets, streaming devices, and different operating systems. Just download the respective VPN app and connect to Japan.

Now let’s look at accessing geo-blocked streaming platforms and services with your newfound Japanese IP address powers!

Unblocking Japan-Only Streaming Sites

Your Japanese IP address acts as a skeleton key to access popular streaming platforms restricted only to viewers within Japan:

Unblock Netflix Japan

Netflix restricts some content like anime, dramas, and talk shows based on your geographic location. Titles available on Netflix Japan may not be accessible on other regional Netflix sites.

By routing your traffic through a VPN server in Tokyo, you can browse and unblock the full Japanese Netflix library no matter where you actually are.

According to Surfshark’s 2022 VPN study, Japan has the largest Netflix catalog in the world with over 5,900 titles available. A Japanese IP address lets you binge it all!

Access Hulu Japan

Just like Netflix, Hulu Japan offers local users a slate of exclusive content including movies, anime series, Japanese reality shows, and more.

With your new virtual Japanese location provided by a VPN, you can break through Hulu Japan’s geo-blocks and stream its entire catalog.

Watch Rakuten TV

Rakuten TV offers Japanese users a massive collection of hit Hollywood and Japanese movies alongside popular local and international TV shows.

By spoofing your IP to show as Japanese, a VPN easily unblocks full access to Rakuten TV from anywhere worldwide.

Unlock AbemaTV

This popular Japanese streaming platform provides a wealth of local programming including news, dramas, anime, variety shows, and Japanese major league sports.

Unfortunately, AbemaTV exclusively restricts its content to viewers with IPs based in Japan. Using a VPN allows you to bypass these geographic barriers and watch AbemaTV abroad.

Access Other Regional Libraries

Your Japanese IP address can also help unlock region-exclusive content on international streaming platforms:

• Access the Japanese catalog on Amazon Prime Video including local Amazon originals and exclusives.
• Unblock UK content on BBC iPlayer like Doctor Who, Top Gear, Sherlock, and BBC Earth documentaries.
• Watch US TV shows and movies restricted to American IPs on HBO Max.

Thanks to their virtual location-spoofing abilities, VPNs allow you to bypass geographic restrictions on both local streaming services like AbemaTV and global platforms like Amazon Prime Video and BBC iPlayer.

For stable HD streaming, use a fast VPN like ExpressVPN with unlimited bandwidth and speed-focused features. Their MediaStreamer DNS also allows VPN access to platforms like Netflix that actively block most VPNs.

Next, let’s talk about accessing your local websites and apps while connected to a Japanese IP address.

Access Local Websites While Connected to Japan

Once connected to Japan through your VPN, geo-blocks will prevent you from accessing local services and sites back in your own country or region.

Luckily, modern VPN apps provide specialized features to overcome this limitation:

Use Split-Tunneling

Split-tunneling is a configurable setting within most VPN apps that intelligently separates your traffic:

• Traffic routed through VPN – Includes streaming sites and other Japan-exclusive access.
• Traffic outside VPN – Your general web browsing to local sites.

Split-tunneling allows you to unlock Japanese streaming platforms and content while still retaining access to your local sites and services simultaneously.

Disconnect When Needed

If your VPN doesn’t support split-tunnels or you find the feature too complex, a simple workaround is to:

• Connect to your VPN’s Japanese server when you want to access Japan-only sites.
• Disconnect from the VPN when you need access to local sites and services back home.

Although not as seamless, this method still allows relatively quick switching between your true location and Japanese IP address.

Read Japanese Text with Translation Tools

Browsing the Japanese internet with a local IP address means most content will only be available in Japanese text.

To overcome language barriers, take advantage of the wealth of translation technologies:

• Google Translate browser extension instantly translates Japanese text on Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
• Safari has a built-in translation function for Japanese sites.
• Microsoft Translator allows instant text translation within Windows.
• Screenshot translators like Capture help translate Japanese phrases and paragraphs in images.
• Online dictionaries such as Jisho make looking up Japanese vocabulary quick.
• Language learning apps like Duolingo can help pick up basic Japanese needed for daily browsing.

While imperfect, these tools help conveying meaning from Japanese sites, services, and content accessed with your virtual Japanese IP address.

Are VPNs Legal in Japan?

Yes, using VPNs is 100% legal in Japan. There are no laws prohibiting the use of VPN services or obtaining a different IP address in the country.

As long as the content you access and online activities you perform are lawful, using a VPN itself does not violate any regulations in Japan.

Accessing overseas streaming content that‘s geo-blocked in Japan using a VPN resides in a legal gray zone but generally goes unenforced for personal entertainment use.

However, users should keep in mind that unauthorized downloading and distribution of copyrighted material remains illegal regardless of using a VPN or proxy tools. These activities can be punishable under Japan‘s copyright and anti-piracy regulations.

When used legally, VPN services provide Japanese residents and travelers a perfectly valid means to access blocked content and enhance their online privacy within reasonable limits.

Why Use a VPN in Japan? Online Privacy and Security

Aside from accessing geo-restricted content not available in Japan, connecting through a VPN offers several other important benefits:

1. Mask Your Identity and Location

Your public IP address can expose your precise location and internet service provider, making it easy to identify you.

A VPN hides this by assigning you an IP address from the country of your selected server, keeping your true details private.

2. Encrypt Your Web Activity

All data transmitted between your device and the VPN server stays securely encrypted. This shields your browsing activity from external monitoring or spying over public Wi-Fi.

3. Prevent Tracking and Targeted Advertising

VPN encryption also blocks forms of targeted advertising and protects against tracking by government authorities or private companies.

4. Bypass Censorship

Certain websites or content may be subject to state censorship based on your Japanese IP address. A VPN allows bypassing blocks to access information freely.

5. Safeguard Public Wi-Fi Access

Public Wi-Fi hotspots frequently lack encryption. A VPN secures your connection preventing man-in-the-middle attacks by hackers on shared networks.

6. Stop Bandwidth Throttling

Some Japanese ISPs may throttle connection speeds for bandwidth-heavy activities like video streaming. A VPN prevents the ISP from detecting your usage and throttling speeds.

Online privacy continues to be a growing concern among Japanese internet users based on surveys. VPNs present an effective solution to take control over your data and online footprint.

Alternative Methods to Get a Japanese IP Address

While VPNs are the preferred approach, here are a couple of alternative tools that can also provide a Japanese IP address:

Try the Tor Browser (Free)

The Tor browser works by routing your traffic through multiple encrypted nodes before reaching an ‘exit node‘ to the open internet. This path can sometimes assign you with an exit IP based in Japan.

However, Tor connections tend to be very slow due to this complex routing. The exit IP also keeps changing, so unblocking access to a site may require several retries.

Use a Japan Proxy Server

Proxy servers based in Japan can replace your local IP address with their own address when browsing, similar to a VPN.

However, free proxy servers are typically very slow. Paid services don’t offer the full benefit of VPN encryption and can cost as much as VPN services.

For the most reliable access, a premium VPN service still remains the best solution for obtaining Japanese IP addresses consistently.

Get a Japanese IP Address: Key Takeaways

Here are the core pointers from this guide on accessing the Japanese internet with a VPN:

• Japanese IP addresses grant access to Japan-exclusive content on streaming sites, online services, games, travel portals, and more.
• VPNs like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost allow you to connect through servers in Japan to obtain a local IP address.
• Follow simple steps to set up your VPN app and connect to Japan for an IP makeover.
• Unblock streaming services like Netflix Japan, Rakuten TV, and AbemaTV with your new virtual location.
• Utilize split-tunneling to access Japanese sites and local sites simultaneously.
• Translate tools help overcome language barriers when browsing Japanese content.
• Using VPNs is fully legal in Japan, enhancing privacy and unblocking access.
• Other options like Tor and proxy servers exist but are often slower and less reliable.

Ready to explore the digital wonders of Japan? Get connected through a top-rated VPN today to enjoy exclusive access and internet freedom!