Ever wondered how to get access to exclusive Japanese content, games, or deals that are available only to those with a local IP address? A Japanese IP address can be your magic key, opening a world of unique content and online opportunities. 

Whether you're an anime enthusiast, an international business professional, or simply a curious explorer of the digital realm, this guide will equip you with the tools and knowledge to navigate the fascinating landscape of the Japanese internet, including which of the best VPNs we recommend for a Japan IP address.

4.6

ExpressVPN Is Our No.1 Recommend Japan VPN

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On ExpressVPN's website

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ExpressVPN

• Premium VPN offering strong security and ultra-fast speeds
• Strict no-logs policy with independent audit
• In-house Lightway protocol for more speed and security
• More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

Get a VPN

Virtual private networks (VPNs) have transformed the way we connect and interact with the digital world. A VPN provides an encrypted tunnel between your device and remote servers operated by the VPN service. The internet traffic then passes through this tunnel, effectively disguising your digital footprint and giving you a new IP address that matches the location of the chosen server.

To obtain a Japanese IP address, simply connect to a VPN server based in Japan. This masks your actual IP address and tricks the internet into thinking you are browsing from Japan, regardless of your actual location.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set up your VPN:

1. Sign up for a reliable VPN service — we recommend ExpressVPN.
2. Download and install the VPN app on your device.
3. Open the VPN app and log in.
4. Select a server based in Japan from the server list.
5. Click Connect.

You are now ready to explore Japanese websites with your new IP address.

How to choose a VPN

While using a VPN is simple enough, there are a myriad of options to choose from. Here are a few factors you should consider when picking a VPN for acquiring a Japanese IP address.

• Server locations and count: The more servers a VPN has in Japan, the higher the likelihood of attaining a stable and fast connection. Look for VPNs that have a substantial number of servers spread across various locations in Japan.
• Security and privacy: Choose a VPN that employs robust security measures, including AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. A strict no-logs policy can also ensure that your data isn't stored or shared.
• Performance: Connection speed is a crucial factor, especially if you plan to use a VPN for streaming Japanese content. VPNs that offer unlimited bandwidth and high-speed connections are a must.
• Compatibility: Make sure that the VPN you select is compatible with the devices and operating systems you use.
• Customer support: Opt for VPNs that provide 24/7 customer support, preferably with a live chat option.

Best VPNs for Japanese IP addresses

1. ExpressVPN

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On ExpressVPN's website

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ExpressVPN

• Premium VPN offering strong security and ultra-fast speeds
• Strict no-logs policy with independent audit
• In-house Lightway protocol for more speed and security
• More expensive than NordVPN, Surfshark, and CyberGhost

ExpressVPN has long been a favorite in the VPN market and is renowned for its fast and reliable connections, top-notch security measures, and vast server network. And while it's one of the more expensive VPNs on the market, ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can try it and get a refund if it's not for you.

• Japanese servers: With multiple servers in Tokyo and Yokohama, ExpressVPN offers robust connectivity to a Japanese IP address.
• Speed: Known for its blazing-fast speeds, ExpressVPN ensures your streaming of Japanese content remains uninterrupted and smooth.
• Security: A comprehensive suite of security features, including AES-256 encryption, a Network Lock (kill switch), and a proven no-logs policy guarantees your online security.
• Compatibility: ExpressVPN supports all major platforms, including Android and iOS, making it a convenient choice for users with diverse device preferences.

Get ExpressVPN | Read our ExpressVPN Review

2. NordVPN

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On NordVPN's website

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NordVPN

• High-quality VPN offering safety and speed
• Loads of servers for multiple connection options
• Works with popular streaming services, including Netflix
• Too many confusing plans

NordVPN shines when it comes to security. It offers a range of advanced security features alongside reliable access to Japanese VPN servers.

• Japanese servers: NordVPN offers plenty of servers in Japan, giving users numerous options to connect to a Japanese IP address.
• Security: With its military-grade encryption, double VPN feature, strict no-logs policy, and DNS leak protection, NordVPN ensures your data remains well protected.
• Performance: While NordVPN might not be the fastest VPN, it still provides respectable speeds adequate for streaming and browsing Japanese content without major interruptions.

Get NordVPN | Read our NordVPN Review

3. CyberGhost

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On CyberGhost's website

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CyberGhost

• Cheaper than ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark
• Optimized servers for regional streaming
• No split tunneling feature

Combining high-speed connections with an intuitive interface, CyberGhost is a fantastic choice for VPN beginners and veterans alike.

• Japanese servers: CyberGhost hosts a decent number of servers in Japan, promising reliable and stable connectivity.
• Speed: Known for impressive performance, CyberGhost ensures a seamless streaming experience, especially when accessing platforms like Netflix Japan.
• User-Friendly: Its easy-to-navigate interface makes CyberGhost an excellent choice for users new to VPNs, while its robust features keep seasoned users happy.

Get CyberGhost | Read our CyberGhost Review

Alternative ways to get a Japanese IP address

While VPNs are arguably the most reliable way to obtain a Japanese IP address, they're not the only player in town. If, for any reason, you're unable to use a VPN, here are a couple of alternative methods that could help you access Japanese content.

Tor Browser: Privacy-centric web surfing

The Tor Browser is a robust tool that offers anonymity and the ability to bypass geographical restrictions. It achieves this by routing your internet connection through several servers (or nodes) around the world, which makes it highly difficult for anyone to track your online activities.

Here's how you can use the Tor Browser:

1. Download and install the Tor Browser from the official website.
2. Open the browser and click on the onion icon in the top left corner.
3. Choose New Identity, and a new circuit will be established.
4. Unfortunately, you can't pick a specific exit node country in Tor. You may need to use the New Identity feature several times to get an IP address from Japan.

This method is best for users who prioritize privacy above all else. However, it's important to note that Tor significantly reduces your browsing speed due to its multi-layer encryption and complex routing system.

Proxy server: A quick solution with some caveats

A proxy server works as a middleman between your device and the internet. When you send a request, the proxy server forwards it on your behalf, retrieves the response, and then sends it back to you. This process gives you a new IP address that matches the location of the proxy server.

Here's how you can use a proxy server:

1. Find a Japanese proxy server.
2. Configure your device's network settings to use the proxy server. The process may vary depending on the device and the browser you're using.

Using a proxy server can be a quick solution for accessing geo-restricted Japanese content. But it comes with its own set of caveats. Proxy servers do not encrypt your traffic. Therefore, your online activities can be easily traced. The performance can also be quite erratic, with many free proxy servers being notoriously slow or unstable.

Reasons to use a Japanese IP address

Japanese IP addresses unblock a variety of region-specific content for you from anime and video games to special offers at local stores. This access to the Japanese digital landscape also provides unique educational resources from local databases and libraries.

Using a VPN is an excellent way to maintain your online privacy and security while surfing the web — especially if you use public Wi-Fi, which may not be encrypted. With its wide variety of features, VPNs offer much more than just anonymous browsing. They also allow users to access geographically restricted websites, encrypt traffic and data, hide IP addresses, circumvent censorship, and protect personal data from hackers and cybercriminals. 

When it comes to privacy, VPNs are especially beneficial for those in Japan who might otherwise be subject to government surveillance or other forms of data tracking. With a Japanese IP address, your online activity is much more secure as it cannot be linked to you or your location.

But this doesn’t come without challenges. Of course, the language barrier can pose a significant challenge when accessing content via a Japanese IP address. On top of this, users may experience difficulty accessing local services in their country of origin due to geographical restrictions.

The best way to access local services while connected to a VPN is to use split tunneling. This will allow you to route certain traffic through the VPN and other traffic directly from your computer. Alternatively, if you don't want the hassle of setting up split tunneling, simply disconnect from the VPN and connect directly with your local connection.

Using a VPN to connect to a Japanese IP address is legal in most countries. This includes Japan. However, it's essential to remember that all online activities while connected to a VPN are still subject to local and international laws.

Japanese IP address FAQs

Bottom line

Set off on your Japanese IP journey to access an abundance of exclusive content from Japanese TV shows to shopping deals and educational resources to business opportunities. But keep in mind that everything will be in Japanese.

To navigate this content, you should use a VPN. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost all offer safe and effective solutions for you — but if you need more recommendations check out our guide on the best VPNs for Japan. These services provide you with a Japanese IP address along with the desired privacy, security, and unrestricted browsing.

So, are you ready to unlock the wonders of the Japanese digital landscape? Simply select your VPN, connect to a Japanese server, and explore. Happy browsing!

4.9

Limited-time offer: 69% off + 3 extra months

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On NordVPN's website

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NordVPN

• High-quality VPN offering safety and speed
• Loads of servers for multiple connection options
• Works with popular streaming services, including Netflix
• Too many confusing plans

Author Details

Ryan L. Clancy

About the Author

Ryan Clancy is a freelance writer and blogger. With 5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, he's passionate about all things engineering and tech. He loves bringing engineering (especially mechanical) down to a level that everyone can understand.