Complete Windows VPN Setup Walkthrough

Step 1: Pick and subscribe to a VPN

This walkthrough uses NordVPN (our overall #1). Go to nordvpn.com, pick the 2-year plan (USD 3.39/month). Pay by credit card, PayPal, or crypto. The 30-day money-back lets you test risk-free.

Step 2: Download the Windows app

After subscribing, download the Windows installer from your NordVPN dashboard. Run the installer (~30 seconds).

Step 3: Log in and connect to a Japan server

  1. Launch the NordVPN app
  2. Sign in to your account
  3. Click 'Japan' on the map, or pick Tokyo from the list
  4. Wait for the connection (green indicator)

Step 4: Verify your IP

Open https://ipinfo.io in your browser. Confirm the IP shows 'Japan'.

Step 5: Start using a Japanese service

  1. Clear browser cookies for the service's domain
  2. Sign in (FANZA, Netflix Japan, U-NEXT, etc.)
  3. The catalogue should switch to the Japanese version

FAQ

Q. What if my connection drops? NordVPN has Auto-Connect. Settings → Auto-Connect → on.

Q. How do I confirm Kill Switch is on? Settings → Kill Switch → on. If the VPN drops, your network is cut to prevent real-IP leaks.

Q. Slow speeds? Switch to a different Japanese city, or change protocol (NordLynx → OpenVPN).