How to Watch Japanese TV Channels in USA Online in Sep 2026

By Sebastian Riley Leave a Comment

From fast-paced anime and heartfelt dramas to quirky variety shows and local news, Japanese television offers a unique blend of entertainment you won’t find anywhere else. Continue reading as we show you how to watch Japanese TV in USA online.

Popular channels like NHK, Nippon TV, TV Asahi, Wowow, and TBS are packed with a wide range of programming. But if you’re living in the USA, watching these channels can be a challenge due to geo-restrictions that limit access to viewers within Japan.

Thankfully, there’s a reliable workaround—using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A reliable VPN lets you connect to a server in Japan, masking your actual location and making it appear as if you’re browsing from inside the country.

This allows you to bypass regional blocks and unlock access to Japanese TV channels and streaming services from the comfort of your home in the US.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to watch Japanese TV in the USA using a VPN—so you can enjoy your favorite anime, variety shows, and local Japanese content anytime, anywhere.

5 Steps to Watch Japanese TV Online Live in the USA

Here’s how to watch Japanese TV online in USA:

  1. Get a VPN. Surfshark is a great option that we highly recommend because of its fast-speed servers in Japan.
  2. Next, download and install the VPN app, which is available on multiple platforms.
  3. Once installed, open the VPN app and log in
  4. Connect to a server in Japan. This will assign you a Japanese IP address.
  5. Now, visit your preferred Japanese TV channels (such as AT-X) and enjoy your favorite anime online.
Watch Japanese TV Channels in USA

How a VPN Can Help You Access Japanese TV Channels in the USA

For those in the USA eager to watch Japanese TV, you might face geo-restrictions preventing access to content intended only for viewers in Japan. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a reliable solution to bypass these restrictions.

Geo-blocking typically occurs because of licensing agreements, broadcast rights, and copyright regulations that limit access to specific geographic regions.

If you try to stream Japanese TV channels like NHK, Fuji TV, TBS, or TVer from the USA, you’re likely to encounter error messages such as:

“A communication error has occurred.”

tver streaming error message

A VPN works by allowing you to connect to a server located in Japan. This changes your apparent location to Japan, bypassing geo-restrictions and enabling you to stream Japanese TV without any interruptions.

To make it easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the best VPN services for streaming Japanese TV channels, so you can enjoy your favorite Japanese shows, news, and sports, no matter where you are.

Quick Overview of the Best VPNs for Japanese TV Channels in USA

Best Overall VPN
$ 2.49
  • 85+ Mbps /100 Mbps
  • 3200 servers (100 countries)
  • 5.0/5.0 stars
  • Unlimited multi-logins
  • 85% Discount
  • 3 Months FREE
Get Surfshark
Massive VPN Servers
$ 3.49
  • 75+ Mbps /100 Mbps
  • 8,353 servers (127 countries)
  • 4.8/5.0 stars
  • 10 multi-logins
  • 69% Discount
  • 3 Months FREE
Get NordVPN
Fastest VPN
$ 2.49
  • 80+ Mbps /100 Mbps
  • 105 countries
  • 4.5/5.0 stars
  • 10 multi-logins
  • 84% Discount
  • 4 Months Free
Get ExpressVPN

3 Best VPNs to Watch Japanese TV in USA Online

Let’s take a detailed look at the best VPNs to unlock and watch Japanese TV channels in the US.

1. Surfshark – Overall Best VPN for Watching Japanese TV Channels in USA

Surfshark-VPN
Servers — 3200 servers in 100 countries.
Unblocks — Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more.
Torrenting — Offers P2P optimized servers for Torrenting.
Simultaneous connections — Offers unlimited simultaneous connections.
Logs — Strict no-log policy
Money-back guarantee — 30-day refund policy.
Visit Surfshark

Surfshark is one of the most affordable VPN options for watching Japanese TV in the USA. Not only is it cost-effective, but it also effectively bypasses geo-restrictions that block access to popular Japanese streaming platforms.

With a vast network of 3,200 servers across 100 countries, including several locations in Tokyo, Surfshark provides access to Japanese IP addresses, enabling seamless access to streaming services like TVer, AT-X, and more.

In our tests, Surfshark delivered excellent performance while streaming Japanese content. Starting with a base speed of 30 Mbps, we achieved an average download speed of 25.81 Mbps when connected to a Japanese server. This allowed us to stream Japanese anime in HD quality without any buffering or interruptions.

Beyond Japanese TV, Surfshark works flawlessly with other popular streaming platforms like Disney Plus, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to access region-locked content from anywhere in the world.

It’s compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS, Windows, Android, and Mac, and it supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it perfect for households with multiple devices.

At just $2.49/mo (Save 85% and get 3 extra months FREE with 24-month plan), it offers great value for money. Plus, with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free.

For more details on Surfshark’s features, be sure to check out our full Surfshark review.

Get Started with Surfshark

2. ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for Streaming Live Japanese TV in USA

ExpressVPN
Servers — VPN Servers in 105 Countries.
Unblocks — Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more.
Torrenting — Offers Network Lock for secure Torrenting.
Simultaneous connections — Offers 12 simultaneous connections.
Logs — Strict no-log policy
Money-back guarantee — 30-day refund policy.
Visit ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is widely regarded as one of the fastest VPNs, making it an excellent choice for streaming Japanese TV channels in the USA. With its reliable and high-speed connections, ExpressVPN is perfect for bypassing geo-restrictions on Japanese streaming services.

Boasting a network of over 3,000+ servers across 105 countries, including several in Japan. With these servers, you can easily access Japanese channels like AT-X, TVer, and TBS.

In our tests, ExpressVPN delivered exceptional performance. Starting with a base speed of 30 Mbps, we achieved an impressive download speed of 28.71 Mbps while connected to a Japanese server, ensuring smooth streaming without buffering.

We were able to watch popular Japanese shows like June’s Time Machine, Suspicious Partner, and Detective Conan without interruptions.

ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Amazon Firestick, Nvidia Shield, and Smart TVs. It also features MediaStreamer Smart DNS, allowing you to stream on devices that don’t typically support VPNs.

At $2.49/mo, ExpressVPN offers top-tier service at a great value. It also includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

Additionally, Android users can take advantage of a 7-day free trial. For more details on ExpressVPN’s features, pricing, and performance, be sure to check out our comprehensive ExpressVPN review.

Get Started with ExpressVPN

3. NordVPN – Large Server Network for Unblocking Japanese TV in USA

NordVPN
Servers — 8,353 servers in 127 countries.
Unblocks — Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more.
Torrenting — Offer obfuscated and P2P optimized servers.
Simultaneous connections — Offers 10 simultaneous connections.
Logs — Strict no-log policy
Money-back guarantee — 30-day refund policy.
Visit NordVPN

NordVPN is another excellent option for streaming Japanese TV channels in the USA. With one of the largest server networks in the VPN market, NordVPN has over 6,343 servers in 111 countries, including more than 130 servers in Japan, making it ideal for accessing Japanese content.

In our tests, NordVPN delivered impressive performance. By connecting to a Japanese server, we were able to stream popular Japanese anime and shows like Solo Leveling and Damemane! without any buffering or quality issues.

While not as fast as ExpressVPN, NordVPN still offers great speeds, especially for high-quality streaming. On a 30 Mbps connection, we achieved a download speed of 24.85 Mbps, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted viewing experience.

NordVPN also features SmartPlay technology, which automatically bypasses geo-restrictions, making it easy to stream Japanese TV and other popular services like Hulu and Disney+.

NordVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices and allows you to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously on a single account. It offers excellent value, priced at just $3.49/mo (Save 69% with 24-month plan and get 3 extra months), with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test it risk-free.

For a more detailed look at NordVPN’s features and performance, check out our full NordVPN review.

Get Started with NordVPN

How to Sign Up for Japanese TV in USA

There are various Japanese streaming services and TV channels with online platforms where users can sign up and view local content with ease. Follow these steps to sign up for Wowow TV in USA – a popular Japanese streaming service:

wowow tv subscribe

  • Click ‘Get Started Now.’

sign up for japanese tv

  • Enter your email address, and you will receive a verification code.

subscribe japanese tv

  • Now enter the required details, select a subscription plan, and pay for it.

add username and password

  • Once the payment is done, and your account is activated, log in and enjoy streaming Japanese shows in USA.
Watch Japanese TV in USA with Surfshark

How to Watch Japanese TV Channels in USA Live on Different Devices

Japanese TV networks offer apps that can be accessed across a range of devices, including Android, iOS, Smart TVs, Firestick, and Roku. If you’re in the USA and want to watch Japanese TV content live, follow this simple guide to stream Japanese channels on different platforms.

Streaming Japanese TV on Android Devices in the USA

  1. Choose a reliable VPN, such as Surfshark, and install the app on your Android device.
  2. Open the VPN app and connect to a server in Japan.
  3. Go to the Google Play Store on your Android device and tap on your profile icon.
  4. Navigate to Settings > General > Account and Device Preferences > Country and Profiles.
  5. Select Japan as your country and follow the steps to add a valid payment method for Japan.
  6. Once your Google Play Store location updates, search for a Japanese TV app (e.g., TVer, Wowow, etc.) and install it.
  7. Open the app, log in, and start enjoying Japanese TV content.

How to Watch Japanese TV on iOS in the USA

  1. Subscribe to a VPN like Surfshark and download the app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Open the VPN app and connect to a server in Japan.
  3. On your iOS device, go to Settings.
  4. Tap your Name > Media & Purchases > View Account.
  5. Select Country/Region, then tap Change Country or Region.
  6. Choose Japan from the list and accept the terms and conditions.
  7. Add a payment method valid in Japan and tap Next to confirm.
  8. Open the App Store, search for Japanese TV apps, and install your desired app.
  9. Log in to the app and start streaming Japanese content on your phone.

How to Stream Japanese TV on Firestick in the USA

  1. Subscribe to a VPN like Surfshark and install the VPN app on your Firestick.
  2. Open the VPN app and connect to a server in Japan.
  3. On the Firestick home screen, go to Find > Search, and search for a Japanese TV app.
  4. Select the app from the Apps & Games section and click Get or Download.
  5. Open the app, log in, and begin streaming Japanese content on your Firestick.

Watching Japanese TV on Smart TVs in the USA

  1. Choose a VPN provider like Surfshark that supports Smart TVs.
  2. Set up the VPN on your router and connect to a server in Japan.
  3. On your Smart TV, download your desired Japanese TV app.
  4. Open the app, log in, and start streaming Japanese TV directly on your Smart TV.

Watching Japanese TV on Roku in the USA

  1. Subscribe to a VPN like Surfshark and set it up on your router.
  2. Use the VPN to connect your router to a server in Japan, then connect your Roku device to the VPN-enabled router.
  3. Download your desired Japanese TV app on your Roku device.
  4. Open the app and start streaming your favorite Japanese shows and anime.
Watch Japanese TV in the USA Now

List of Japanese TV Channels to Watch in USA

  • Wowow
  • TVer
  • NHK BS8K
  • Nippon TV
  • TV Asahi
  • Fuji TV
  • TBS
  • TV Tokyo
  • Akita Asahi
  • NHK World
  • AT-X
  • Akita TV
  • BSN
  • TV Tokyo
  • Tokyo MX

Best Japanese TV Shows/ Dramas to Watch in the USA in 2025

  • Alice in Borderland
  • Folowers
  • An Incurable Case of Love
  • First Love
  • House of Ninjas
  • Gokusen
  • Tokyo Swindlers
  • Business Marriage
  • Nevertheless
  • Dragon Zakura
  • Hold My Hand at Twilight
  • Silent
  • Private Banker
  • Burn the House Down

Best Japanese Anime to Watch in the USA in 2025

  • Jujutsu Kaisen
  • Demon Slayer
  • Kakegurui
  • One Piece
  • Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure
  • My Hero Academia
  • Tokyo Ghoul
  • Dr Stone
  • Solo Leveling
  • Kamisama Kiss
  • Witch Watch
  • Wind Breaker
  • FAIRY TAIL 100 YEARS QUEST

Other Channels to Watch in the USA

Watch Japanese TV Channels in USA FAQs

How to watch Japanese shows & movies on Netflix?

Accessing the Japanese Netflix library is easy — simply connect to a VPN server located in Japan. After that, you can log into your Netflix account as usual and start streaming Japanese TV shows and movies. Keep in mind that the available subtitles and audio options might differ depending on the content.

One of the benefits of using a VPN is that it allows you to switch between various Netflix libraries worldwide. Since VPNs offer servers in many countries, you can enjoy a wide range of international content by connecting to different servers

Can I watch Japanese TV in the US with a free VPN?

Although it’s possible to access Japanese TV with a free VPN, the experience is usually subpar. Free VPNs tend to have a limited number of servers but a far larger user base compared to their paid counterparts.

This imbalance often leads to slower speeds and frequent buffering due to network congestion. Additionally, the high volume of traffic coming from a small pool of IP addresses makes free VPNs more susceptible to being blocked by major streaming services.

Free VPNs also present significant security concerns. Many of these services fail to adequately encrypt your data, exposing you to potential privacy risks. Worse still, a number of free VPN apps are riddled with malware, which can jeopardize your device every time you use them.

For a more reliable and secure experience, consider using a reputable VPN service like Surfshark, which offers a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it without risk.

Is there an app to watch Japanese TV in USA?

You can download the Wowow TV app or TVer to watch Japanese TV in USA. To access these apps in the US, you will need to use a VPN with servers in Japan such as Surfshark.

Why isn't Japanese TV available in the US?

Japanese local TV channels are not available in the US due to content licensing agreements. Japanese channels do not have a worldwide broadcasting rights, due to which it restricts its access in Japan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, watching Japanese TV in the USA is simple and hassle-free with the right VPN. By connecting to a reliable VPN server in Japan, you can easily access your favorite Japanese TV channels, whether it’s for anime, variety shows, news, or sports, from anywhere in the United States.

For the best experience, we recommend Surfshark for its fast speeds, excellent security, and consistent access to Japanese TV content. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try its features risk-free.

About Sebastian Riley

Sebastian Riley is a cyberlibertarian activist and an internet freedom fighter who strongly believes in an unsegregated and uncensored internet. With a cybersecurity degree, Sebastian is a professional bug hunter and a freelance opensource penetration tester.