Streaming Services in Japan (2025): Best Platforms for English Speakers, Expats & Visitors

Planning to stream your favorite shows while in Japan? Whether you’re an expat, tourist, or digital nomad, navigating Japan’s streaming services can be tricky—with region-locked content, Japanese-only interfaces, and surprising platform differences.

In this updated 2025 guide, we break down the top streaming services in Japan—including which ones support English, how much they cost, and how to access them with or without a VPN.

As a Tokyo-based influencer marketing agency working closely with Japan’s top media platforms, we constantly track what’s trending across the digital entertainment space. This guide brings together both insider insights and practical tips for global viewers.

Top Streaming Services in Japan (2025): Features, Pricing & English Support

Japan’s streaming landscape is unique—not just because of regional restrictions, but also due to exclusive platforms and content preferences. Here’s a snapshot of the most popular streaming services in Japan today.

Netflix Japan

• Why it’s popular: Japanese originals, global hits, and anime
• English Support: ☑︎full (UI, subs, audio)
• Monthly Cost: ¥790–¥1,980 (~$5–13)
• Tip: Global accounts work, but content auto-adjusts to Japan’s catalog.

Amazon Prime Video

• Why it’s popular: Affordable with Japanese/global content
• English Support: ☑︎ UI and many subtitles
• Monthly Cost: ¥600 (~$4) or ¥5,900/year
• Tip: Comes with Amazon shopping perks

Disney+ (Japan)

• Why it’s popular: Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and Japan exclusives
• English Support: ☑︎ Subtitles and audio on most content
• Monthly Cost: ¥990 (~$6.50)

Hulu Japan

• Why it’s popular: Local dramas, variety shows
• English Support: × Very limited
• Monthly Cost: ¥1,026 (~$7)

U-NEXT

• Why it’s popular: Largest catalog in Japan (anime, manga, films)
• English Support: ⚠️ Some English subs, Japanese UI only
• Monthly Cost: ¥2,189 (~$14.50), includes rental credits
• Tip: 31-day free trial

Abema

• Why it’s popular: Live TV, reality, news
• English Support: × None
• Cost: Free / Premium: ¥960 (~$6.40)
• Tip: Great for free local content

dAnime Store

• Why it’s popular: Massive anime library at low cost
• English Support: ×None
• Monthly Cost: ¥550 (~$3.60)

FOD (Fuji TV On Demand)

• Why it’s popular: Domestic dramas and variety
• English Support: × None
• Monthly Cost: ¥976 (~$6.50)

DAZN Japan

• Why it’s popular: Premier League, NPB, J.League
• English Support: ☑︎ UI in English, limited subtitles/audio
• Monthly Cost: ¥3,000 (~$20)

Using Your Streaming Accounts in Japan: What Works and What Doesn’t

If you’re visiting Japan, you might be wondering if your home streaming accounts will still work.

Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+: Cross-Border Access

• Netflix: Your account works, but shows are region-specific.
• Amazon Prime Video: Global accounts won’t access JP content—you’ll need a Japan-based account.
• Disney+: Region-locked; a separate Disney+ Japan account is usually required.

Region Locks Explained

• Streaming libraries differ by country due to licensing.
• Your existing login might work, but content changes by location.
• Some shows may be unavailable or swapped when in Japan.

Japan-Only Streaming Services Worth Exploring

Several Japanese platforms aren’t available overseas but offer exclusive content.

Local Favorites

• U-NEXT: Huge catalog, e-books, anime, premium pricing, 31-day trial
• Abema: Free live TV, reality, anime, optional premium plan
• dAnime Store: Affordable anime-only platform
• FOD: Fuji TV dramas, variety content, exclusive specials

Signup & Language Tips

• UI Language: Almost all are Japanese-only
• Payment Methods: Some accept app store payments or prepaid cards
• Workarounds: Use browser translators or video guides

English Subtitles, Audio & Interface: What to Expect

For non-Japanese users, English support is a major factor. Here’s what each platform offers:

Streaming Service Prices in Japan (2025): A Quick Comparison

Looking for the most cost-effective way to stream? Here’s what you need to know:

Tips:

• Use free trials to test before you commit
• Check for annual plans or mobile bundle offers

How to Watch Japanese Streaming Services from Abroad (Using VPNs)

Geo-blocking makes Japanese platforms inaccessible outside Japan—but a VPN can help.

VPN Legality

• VPN use is legal in Japan, but may breach platform TOS
• Some VPNs are blocked or flagged

Recommended VPNs (2025)

• NordVPN: Fast Japan servers, works with Netflix JP, U-NEXT
• Surfshark: Unlimited devices, affordable
• ExpressVPN: Reliable, high cost
• CyberGhost: Beginner-friendly

Pro Tips:

• Use Tokyo/Osaka servers
• Clear cookies, use incognito mode
• Test on free content first

Best Streaming Platforms in Japan by Genre & Audience

Anime Fans

• dAnime Store: Huge anime-only library
• Netflix Japan: New & classic anime with English subs
• U-NEXT: Simulcasts, seasonal releases

Drama & Variety Lovers

• Hulu Japan: Deep library of Japanese shows
• FOD: Fuji TV exclusives
• Abema: Free live entertainment, talk shows

Sports Viewers

• DAZN Japan: Football, baseball, boxing, global leagues
• Abema: Martial arts, niche sports (limited coverage)

How to Sign Up, Pay, and Watch Smoothly in Japan

Payment Options

• Credit Cards: Some platforms reject non-JP cards
• App Store Billing: Safer via iOS/Google Play
• Prepaid Cards: Buy at convenience stores (e.g., U-NEXT)
• Carrier Billing: For Japanese phone users only

Compatible Devices

• Mobile: iOS/Android apps widely supported
• Smart TVs/Fire Stick: App store region may need adjustment
• Browsers: Chrome/Firefox work well with translation
• Consoles: Global apps like Netflix may be supported

Streaming Market Share in Japan (2025 Data & Insights)

Platform Share (ICT Research 2025)

• Amazon Prime: 66.2%
• Netflix: 36.0%
• U-NEXT: 17.9%
• Disney+: 12.0%
• Hulu: 9.0%
• dAnime Store: 8.0%
• FOD: 5.0%

Demographics

• 71.1% of Japanese population use streaming
• Usage highest among teens (75%), but strong across age groups

Business Insights

• Ads: Abema, TVer use ad-supported models
• Licensing: U-NEXT & Hulu open to collaborations
• Niches: Platforms like dAnime enable targeted campaigns

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Streaming Service in Japan for You?

With so many options, the right streaming service depends on your preferences, language needs, and budget. For English-friendly options, start with Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon Prime. For exclusive Japanese content, try U-NEXT or FOD.

As a Tokyo-based influencer agency, we help brands and content creators stay in sync with Japan’s streaming trends and digital culture. If you’re looking to launch a campaign aligned with Japanese media consumption, we’d love to help.

Let’s talk about your strategy.