5 Best Free Japan VPNs: Netflix Streaming & Gaming (2025)

Most free VPNs don’t work with Japanese streaming services or maintain stable connections for gaming. They often lack servers in Japan, have severe speed limitations, and collect user data. Some even sell your browsing history to advertisers or install malware on your devices, putting your privacy at risk when you're trying to stream anime or play Japanese games.

After testing over 45 services, we identified the safest and most reliable free VPNs for Japan. While these VPNs protect your data with strong encryption and no-logs policies, they still have limitations like data caps, fewer server locations, and connection restrictions that can impact streaming and gaming performance.

ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for Japan. It offers multiple Japanese server locations, including Tokyo and Osaka, delivering fast speeds for buffer-free streaming and low-ping gaming. While not 100% free, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which lets you try all its features risk-free and get a refund if you're not satisfied. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Try ExpressVPN Risk-Free >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Free VPNs for Japan in 2025

Best Free VPNs for Japan — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)

1. ExpressVPN — Fast Speeds to Stream and Game Japanese Content Without Slowdowns

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2025

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN's servers in Tokyo and Osaka provide fast, reliable connections for accessing Japanese content in the best possible quality. During our speed tests from the US, connecting to the Tokyo server offered speeds of 176.53 Mbps — a drop of just 29%. We could watch Netflix Japan, Hulu Japan, Fuji TV, and more in full HD without interruptions.

We had no issues with connection stability thanks to ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol, Lightway. While streaming Crunchyroll Japan, we didn't experience any disconnects or quality drops, which is something that most free VPNs struggle with. The protocol also uses less battery, which was noticeable during extended gaming sessions on smartphones.

Connecting to a server in Japan took under 3 seconds

The apps are super intuitive and user-friendly, too. We installed ExpressVPN on a Windows PC, an Android phone, and a Fire TV Stick in under 5 minutes each. You can connect to its Japan servers with one click or use the Smart Location feature to automatically select the fastest option. Unlike free VPNs with device limits, you can use ExpressVPN on up to 8 devices simultaneously.

While it's not free, ExpressVPN's 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test all features risk-free. We requested a refund through 24/7 live chat to test its legitimacy. The support agent processed it immediately with no questions asked, and we received our money back in full a few days later.

Useful Features

• Network Lock kill switch. This feature automatically blocks your internet if the VPN connection drops, preventing your personal data from being exposed while browsing in Japan or anywhere else.
• Split tunneling. You can route specific apps through the VPN tunnel while others use your regular connection, which is something that free VPNs don’t always offer.
• Private DNS servers. ExpressVPN runs its own encrypted DNS servers, so your browsing activity stays private from ISPs and network administrators. In particular, this can minimize the risk of your ISP seeing that you’re streaming and throttling your speeds as a result.
• 24/7 support. If you ever experience problems with the Japanese servers or need help finding the best connection, you can get in touch with ExpressVPN’s support team at any time of day. In comparison, free VPNs usually don't have extensive live customer support like this.

2. Proton VPN — No Data Caps for Unlimited HD Streaming of Japanese Content

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Proton VPN >

protonvpn.com

Proton VPN is one of the few free VPNs that offer physical Japanese servers with unlimited data. During our tests, we could browse Japanese websites and stream HD content without worrying about hitting a data cap. This is commendable since most free VPNs either don't have Japanese servers or restrict your data usage to as little as 500 MB per month.

Proton VPN's solid speeds made for breezy browsing and streaming

The free servers delivered reliable speeds, which makes it a good choice for streaming Japanese content in HD from anywhere. When connected to the fastest available free server, our speed dropped by only 30%. We could watch Japan travel videos on YouTube in HD without interruptions. While it didn't work with Netflix, we had no issues reading local news sites and social media platforms.

Your online privacy stays protected with strong security features. Proton VPN uses AES-256 encryption and lets you choose between WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols. Its no-logs policy has been independently audited, and being based in Switzerland means it operates under strict privacy laws. Our leak tests showed no DNS or IP leaks, either.

The main limitation is that you can't choose a server, as it connects you automatically to the one that it deems best for you. However, if you’re in or near Japan, it’s a great option, as there aren’t many free VPNs that offer servers around this area. And, unlike many free VPNs, it’s also ad-free.

Useful Features

• Alternative routing. When you switch this on, Proton VPN will try to connect you to its servers through different routes if it finds that the usual way is blocked. This helps to improve your connection reliability, particularly on Japanese public WiFi and other restrictive networks that may block VPN servers.
• Kill switch. In addition to blocking your internet connection if your VPN connection drops, Proton VPN’s kill switch also offers an advanced version. This is listed as a permanent kill switch, and it stops you from going online at all unless the VPN is connected. It’s ideal if you’re hopping between unsecured public WiFi spots in Japan and want to keep your device fully protected.
• Perfect Forward Secrecy. This feature regularly changes your encryption keys to prevent past VPN sessions from being compromised. This is great for security, as it means even if someone breaches your connection while you’re streaming Crunchyroll Japan, that’s likely all they’ll be able to find out about you.

3. Avira Phantom VPN — Protect All Your Devices in Japan With Unlimited Connections

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome More

Try Avira Phantom VPN >

www.avira.com

Avira Phantom VPN lets you connect unlimited devices simultaneously under one free account, which is rare for a free VPN. We tested this by connecting 8 different devices at once, including an iPhone, an Android tablet, and a Windows laptop. Our connection stayed stable even with multiple devices actively using the VPN.

We had no location errors and gameplay was smooth

On Avira’s mobile apps, you can connect to the full network of 37 server locations, including Japan. Unfortunately, the desktop version only lets you connect to the nearest server location. When we tested a nearby server, we got 93.40 Mbps, a 60% loss. While this isn't as fast as ExpressVPN, it was still good enough for browsing Japanese websites.

The free plan limits you to 500 MB of data per month, but registering with an email address doubles your data allowance to 1 GB. This isn't enough for heavy streaming or gaming, but it works fine for securing your connection while browsing websites or checking social media in Japan.

Useful Features

• Browser extensions. These provide a one-click VPN protection switch directly from your Chrome or Firefox browser for faster connections, so you can start watching Japanese TV securely from anywhere with no hassle.
• Simple interface. The minimalist app has an on/off button and a few settings. The mobile app is just a server list and a power button, too. If you’re new to VPNs and want to go online in Japan with minimal fuss, you’ll get along well with this app.
• Ad blocking. Unlike Proton VPN, the free version of Avira Phantom lets you use its ad blocker. If Japanese isn’t your first language, this can help you from accidentally clicking on scammy or malicious ads on unfamiliar sites.

4. hide.me — Customizable Security to Optimize Your Connection for Japan

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try hide.me VPN >

www.hide.me

hide.me's protocol options let you optimize your connection for Japan. You can choose between WireGuard for speed, OpenVPN for maximum security, or IKEv2 for mobile. During our tests, switching between protocols was simple — WireGuard gave us the best speeds for streaming, while OpenVPN provided extra protection for online banking. Speeds are decent for a free VPN, with just a 42% drop when connecting to a nearby server.

UDP connections are generally faster, but TCP can be more reliable on unstable networks

The free plan includes all security features from the premium version. We tested hide.me's kill switch by deliberately disconnecting — it immediately blocked all traffic. The VPN also passed our DNS leak tests, confirming that we stayed hidden while browsing Japanese websites.

The main limitation of the free plan is that it doesn’t offer any free servers in or near Japan, so it won’t work with regional streaming services like Netflix Japan. However, we were able to watch Japanese YouTube channels, albeit with a longer loading time.

Useful Features

• Split tunneling. Not many free VPNs offer this feature, so it’s great that hide.me offers this. It works like a standard split tunneling feature, and we used it to secure our Honkai: Star Rail gaming session while looking for nearby events on Facebook with our regular connection.
• Port randomization. This helps to get around network blocks on Japanese gaming servers by regularly changing your connection’s ports. So, you’ll be able to enjoy your downtime and play with your friends.
• 24/7 support. This is rare among free VPNs, as most either limit support to office hours or only offer knowledge bases and FAQs to free-plan users. No matter which time zone you’re in, there will always be a friendly support agent to help you out and get you connected in no time.

5. Hotspot Shield — Hydra Protocol for Secure Connections on Restrictive Japan Networks

Available on:

Windows Mac Android iOS

Chrome Router Smart TV More

Try Hotspot Shield >

www.hotspotshield.com

Hydra's design helps it bypass network restrictions while maintaining security. The protocol makes VPN traffic look like regular HTTPS traffic, allowing it to work reliably on restrictive networks, like Japanese public WiFi.

Hotspot Shield's Hydra protocol provided decent speeds during our tests. While the drop of 62% was steep, our high base speed meant we could still stream Japanese TV in HD. This proprietary protocol uses multiple data channels to maintain stable connections, so we didn’t notice any quality drops. However, note that if your base speed is lower, you won't have the same experience as we did with a drop this high.

IKEv2 is great for mobile since it's good at switching between data sources

Like hide.me, Hotspot Shield’s free plan doesn’t provide any servers in Japan. However, there is a nearby free server in Singapore, as well as options in the UK and the US. The Singapore location worked well as an alternative during our testing. Plus, its ping of under 100 ms made it great for gaming on Japanese servers.

Useful Features

• Speed testing tool. This feature lets you check server performance before connecting, which can save you from having to reconnect several times to find the best connection from Japan.

Quick Comparison Table: Free Japan VPN Features

After testing dozens of free VPNs for Japan, we've compared the most important features a service should have. The table below highlights key factors like server locations in Japan, speeds, and data limits to help you choose the right free VPN for Japan. Ping is also important for playing games like Blue Protocol.

Our Methodology for Testing Free VPNs for Japan

We extensively tested which free VPNs could provide reliable and secure access to Japanese sites. During testing, we evaluated speeds on Japanese servers to see if they could handle HD streaming and gaming. Most free VPNs failed to maintain consistent connections, but the ones that made our list proved reliable enough for casual browsing and some light streaming.

Our global testing team regularly evaluates both free and premium VPNs to ensure they meet our strict standards. For complete details about our testing process, visit our methodology page to see how we assess each service.

Expert Tip: Most Free Japan VPNs Aren't Safe

The free VPNs I recommend have undergone rigorous security testing to protect your privacy in Japan. However, many other free VPNs can put your personal data and online security at risk. These services often use questionable methods to generate revenue since they don't charge subscription fees.

Here are the main risks of using untested free VPNs for Japan:

• Data collection and sales. Many free VPNs make money by logging your browsing history, IP address, and other sensitive data to sell to advertisers.
• Weak security standards. Some free VPNs lack the essential security features needed for Japan because they don’t have the continuous income to invest in high-quality technologies.
• Malware distribution. Free VPNs have been discovered embedding malware in their apps, which can steal your passwords and banking details.

The free VPNs I've listed use the freemium model — they earn revenue from premium subscribers rather than compromising user privacy. This allows them to maintain strong security standards while offering limited but safe connections to Japanese sites.

Free Japan VPNs to Avoid

During our testing, we found several free VPNs marketed for Japan that pose significant security and privacy risks. These are:

• Urban VPN. It’s not a VPN, but a P2P network that routes your traffic through other users' devices. In the past, it was found to contain malware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) in its installation files. In addition, it logs an excessive amount of data, and its privacy policy allows data sharing with third parties.
• Betternet. An independent study in 2016 found that Betternet contained 14 different tracking libraries in its Android app. Users have also reported that its Chrome extension was injecting ads into their browsers. We also found that it was practically unusable, with speed losses of 95% on its Japanese servers.
• SuperVPN. It was breached in 2023, with user emails, IP addresses, secret keys, locations, and browsing logs from 360 million users leaked online. Researchers have also found that this VPN has links to China.

FAQs on Free VPNs for Japan

Can I watch Netflix Japan with a free VPN?

Most free VPNs don’t work with Netflix Japan due to the platform's strong VPN detection. During our tests, none of the 100% free VPNs could reliably stream Japanese Netflix content. The only VPN that worked consistently with Netflix Japan was our #1 pick, thanks to its proprietary Lightway protocol and 4 server locations across Japan. The only downside is that it’s not free, but you can try it risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Are free VPNs legal to use in Japan?

Using a VPN is legal in Japan, including free services. The country has no laws restricting or banning VPNs. However, using a VPN for illegal activities like downloading copyrighted content remains against the law. I recommend choosing a reputable VPN with a clear privacy policy and a no-logs commitment. This protects your data and keeps you compliant with local regulations.

Which free VPNs have physical servers in Japan?

Most free VPNs don't maintain physical servers in Japan due to high operational costs. During our testing, only #2 on this list offered a Japanese server location in its free plan. The other free VPNs either had servers in nearby Singapore or none nearby at all. Premium VPNs, like our top recommended service, are far more reliable for Japan as they consistently offer servers in the country.

What's the fastest free VPN for Japan?

Among free VPNs, VPN #2 on this list consistently delivered the best speeds on Japanese servers. During our tests, it maintained around 70% of our base speed when connected to a nearby server. However, speeds can vary depending on the server load and your location. Take a look at our quick comparison table.

How secure are free Japanese VPN servers?

Reputable VPNs use the same security on free servers as their premium counterparts. This includes AES-256 encryption, secure protocols like WireGuard, and kill switches. However, many free VPNs claiming to have Japanese servers use unsafe virtual locations that could expose your data. Always verify a VPN's security features and privacy policy before connecting to Japanese servers.

Which free VPNs work on Japanese public WiFi?

All the free VPNs I recommend work reliably on Japanese public WiFi networks. They provide essential security features like encryption and leak protection to keep your data safe from potential threats on unsecured networks. However, free VPNs often struggle with speed and stability on congested public WiFi networks, and many of them aren’t safe to use at all.

Get the Best FREE VPN for Japan

Free VPNs often struggle to maintain stable connections, leading to constant buffering during streams and high latency in online games. While we identified several safe free options, they all restrict your usage through limited bandwidth, fewer server choices, or data caps that interrupt your browsing.

I recommend ExpressVPN for the most secure and reliable connections in and outside Japan. With multiple server locations across Japan and speeds fast enough for UHD streaming and gaming, it offers performance that free VPNs can't match. While it’s not free, you can try it out risk-free as you’ll be covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Can't find a suitable free VPN? Here are the best premium alternatives…

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Rank

Provider

Our Score

Discount

Visit Website

1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 61%!

Find Out More

2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

Save 84%!

Find Out More

3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 83%!

Find Out More

4

9.4 /10

9.4 Our Score

Save 77%!

Find Out More

5

9.3 /10

9.3 Our Score

Save 87%!

Find Out More