How to Watch Crunchyroll in Japan in 2026: Tested

Honestly, it's a real bummer being in Japan and seeing your Crunchyroll library is just a shadow of what it is elsewhere, especially the US. You're totally missing out on so many awesome anime! But look, the best way to get around these geo-blocks is surprisingly simple: a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Trust me, being able to actually watch Crunchyroll in Japan opens up a whole world of anime you thought was out of reach.

This guide's going to show you exactly how to get a US IP address and stream the entire Crunchyroll anime catalog right here in Japan, all thanks to the power of Surfshark VPN.

Want to unlock the full US Crunchyroll library in Japan? It's easy with this step-by-step guide using Surfshark VPN:

1. First, sign up for Surfshark VPN.
2. Then, install the Surfshark app on whatever device you're using (Windows, Android, iOS, Mac, you name it).
3. Next, connect to a United States (US) server.
4. After that, head over to Crunchyroll or open up their app.
5. And bam! Start watching thousands of new anime episodes from Japan!

With these simple steps, you can watch Crunchyroll in Japan without any headaches!

Surfshark

• Unlimited devices
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Tons of US servers

Pros: Great value, reliably streams, super easy to use.

Cons: Speeds can sometimes be a bit hit or miss.

NordVPN

• Over 5000+ servers worldwide
• Strong security features

Pros: Seriously fast speeds, really secure, huge server count.

Cons: The interface can be a little tricky for newcomers.

ExpressVPN

• Over 3000+ servers in 94 countries
• Amazing at unblocking content

Pros: Super reliable for streaming, fast speeds, a breeze to use.

Cons: Costs a bit more than some others.

CyberGhost

• Over 7200 servers
• 45-day money-back guarantee
• Servers specifically for streaming

Pros: Easy-to-use interface, great for beginners, good server variety.

Cons: Sometimes has trouble with certain geo-blocked services.

Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN

• Over 29000+ servers
• Strong focus on privacy

Pros: Huge server network, highly customizable, good for advanced users.

Cons: The app interface might not be the most intuitive for everyone.

Android Devices

1. Download and install the Surfshark VPN app from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and sign in to your account.
3. Connect to a server located in the United States.
4. Now, open the Crunchyroll app or website and start streaming away.

iOS Devices (iPhone/iPad)

1. Download and install the Surfshark VPN app from the App Store.
2. Open the app and log in.
3. Pick a US server and connect.
4. Launch the Crunchyroll app or go to their website to watch.

PC/Windows

1. Head over to the Surfshark VPN website and download the Windows client.
2. Install the application and log in.
3. Select a server in the USA and connect.
4. Now, go to Crunchyroll's website and enjoy your anime!

Smart TV

1. Set up your router to use Surfshark VPN, or install the VPN on a device connected to your TV.
2. Connect Surfshark to a US server.
3. Access the Crunchyroll app on your Smart TV.
4. And just like that, you can watch the whole Crunchyroll library in Japan!

Apple TV

1. Set up Surfshark VPN on your router or on a device that shares its internet with your Apple TV.
2. Connect Surfshark to a server in the United States.
3. Download and open the Crunchyroll app from the App Store on your Apple TV.
4. Start watching all your favorite anime series.

Amazon Firestick

1. Look for and install the Surfshark VPN app from the Amazon Appstore.
2. Launch the app and log in with your details.
3. Connect to a server that's based in the US.
4. Open the Crunchyroll app on your Firestick and enjoy the show!

Crunchyroll does try to block VPNs, but honestly, good VPNs like Surfshark are always updating their IP addresses and servers to get around these blocks. By connecting to a US server, you can usually watch their content without any problems.

Crunchyroll does have a free option with ads and only some titles available. But, if you want to see the full library, including the newest episodes and no ads, you'll need a premium subscription. Even then, the content you can get in Japan is way more limited compared to other places.

Look, free VPNs might seem tempting, but they're usually not the best for streaming services like Crunchyroll. They often have limited servers, super slow speeds, data caps, and probably won't be able to get past Crunchyroll's VPN blocks. Plus, free VPNs can be a real risk for your privacy and security.