Showtime is a premium American streaming service highly sought after for its shows and movies. Are you wondering how to watch Showtime in Japan? Due to geo-restrictions, accessing Showtime in Japan can be challenging. But don’t worry, using a reliable VPN, you can bypass these geo-blocks and explore Showtime content without hassle.
After testing numerous VPN services, ExpressVPN is our top pick for streaming Showtime in Japan. Its encrypted tunnel ensures that you can enjoy Showtime’s content, including popular titles like “Billions” and “Dexter: New Blood” in Japan without any legal or technical barriers.
This guide will walk you through the simple steps to watch Showtime in Japan.
How to Watch Showtime in Japan with a VPN [Updated Guide]
You’ll need a reliable VPN service to bypass Showtime geo-restrictions to watch its content. Here’s how to watch Showtime in Japan with a VPN:
- Subscribe to the best VPN for Showtime. (We recommend ExpressVPN for its streaming-optimized US servers).
- Download and install the VPN app on your streaming device.
- Connect to a server in the US (Recommended: New York server).
- Go to the Showtime official website or launch the Showtime app and sign up.
- Enjoy streaming Showtime’s shows and movies in Japan!
Can You Watch Showtime in Japan? Why a VPN is Required?
Yes, you can watch Showtime in Japan with a premium VPN subscription like ExpressVPN. Due to copyright and licensing agreements, Showtime’s content is geo-restricted and only available in the United States.
A VPN helps you bypass these restrictions by masking your IP address and making it appear like you are accessing the internet from the US. This encrypted tunnel ensures that you can enjoy Showtime’s content in Japan without any legal or technical barriers.
You will see this geo-restriction while trying to watch Showtime in Japan without a VPN:
SHOWTIME is accessible solely in the United States and its territories and possessions.
A VPN is an answer to your How can I watch Showtime in Japan query? The best Showtime VPN assigns a US IP address when you connect to a US server or any region where the streaming service is available.
Now, you can enjoy streaming Showtime’s vast library of shows and movies in Japan.
How to Get Showtime Subscription in Japan [3 Different Ways]
You can watch Showtime free, but only a few selected shows and episodes, so you’ll need a subscription to access the entire library. Here are different ways to get Showtime subscription in Japan:
How to Get Showtime Subscription Directly through Website in Japan?
Subscribing to Showtime through the website requires a VPN and a US payment method, i.e., a credit card and billing information. However, this method works if you have a US credit card or family or friends in the US. Here are the steps to follow:
- Get a premium VPN subscription. (Recommended: ExpressVPN).
- Download and install the VPN app and connect to a US server.
- Go to the official Showtime website and click “Start Your Free Trial.”
- Follow the instructions and provide a US credit card and US billing info.
- Log in to your account and watch Showtime anytime.
How to Get Showtime Subscription Using Gift Cards in Japan?
Users who do not have access to a US credit card can simply buy US-specific App Store, Google Play, or iTunes Gift Cards that offer a redeemable code to add to the account.
Here’s how to subscribe to Showtime in Japan using Gift Cards:
- Go to a reliable gift card website like MyGiftCardSupply or Amazon.
- Create an account with the gift card platform, and receive the gift code in your email address.
- Subscribe to a Showtime VPN like ExpressVPN and download the app.
- Connect to the New York US server.
- Click “Start Free Trial” then “Have a gift code? Redeem it here.”
- Copy the gift code in your email and paste it into the dialog box on the Showtime website.
- Click “Redeem” and follow the instructions to create a new account.
- That’s it! You have subscribed to Showtime in Japan.
How to Watch Showtime with Apple Subscription in Japan?
You can watch Showtime with an Apple subscription in Japan because the platform supports in-app purchases. You can directly make a payment via your iTunes account and stream Showtime.
Here’s how to watch Showtime with an Apple subscription in Japan:
- Connect your TV to a VPN-configured router or change your DNS addresses with the ExpressVPN MediaStreamer feature.
- Once connected, Go to your Apple TV menu and select the Showtime icon.
- Choose the free trial option and provide your iTunes details, including your login details.
- Select your preferred Showtime subscription plan and follow the instructions.
- Sign in to your Showtime account with your username and password and start streaming.
Quick Tip: Once the Showtime trial ends, use Apple Pay to keep your account active.
How Much Does Showtime Subscription Cost in Japan?
Showtime costs vary as it is available through many different streaming services. You can subscribe directly through the Showtime website for ¥1462.98 ($10.99)/mo and a 7-day free trial. Whereas the Showtime annual subscription costs ¥13178.78 ($99)/per year after the free trial ends.
You can also watch Showtime through Amazon by paying ¥1331.19 ($10)/mo. Moreover, Hulu subscribers can get Showtime as an Add-on at an additional cost of ¥1462.98 ($10.99)/mo.
Your pay depends on how you get Showtime, i.e., as a standalone service with Hulu or Amazon Prime Video. Check the table below for a definitive answer:
| Package Options | Prices |
| Showtime Standalone | ¥1462.98 ($10.99)/mo with a 7-day free trial |
| Showtime with Hulu | ¥1462.98 ($10.99)/mo with a one-week free trial |
| Showtime with Amazon Prime Video | ¥1331.19 ($10)/mo with a one-week free trial |
| Showtime with Paramount+ | ¥1596.10 ($11.99)/mo with a 30-day free trial |
| Showtime with Apple TV | ¥1462.98 ($10.99)/mo with a 30-day free trial |
Additionally, many viewers question how to watch Showtime for free. Luckily, Showtime allows new subscribers to stream select shows on episodes on the website without subscribing. The free option gives them a taste of what to expect once they pay the Showtime subscription.
If you feel it is expensive at any point, you can cancel the Showtime subscription within minutes without hassle.
Best VPNs for Streaming Showtime in Japan [Quick Overview]
There are many VPNs available. After testing numerous VPN services, here are our top picks for streaming Showtime in Japan:
- ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Streaming Showtime in Japan. The VPN provides a reliable connection that never disconnects. It also has the MediaStreamer feature for any streaming device. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch Showtime in Japan. It is backed by affordable monthly and long-term plans for only JPY 384.31 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee and allows unlimited simultaneous connections. Stream in HD with decent connection speeds.
- NordVPN – Fastest VPN for Streaming Showtime in Japan. Comes with a NordLynx protocol that delivers the fastest connections to stream Showtime content in HD. Offers the highest connection speeds.
Top 3 VPNs to Stream Showtime in Japan [In-Depth Analysis]
We thoroughly tested over 20+ VPNs to find the ones that provide the best streaming experience. Here’s an in-depth analysis of our three best Showtime VPNs:
1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for Streaming Showtime in Japan
- Uses the Lightway protocol for a speedier and more secure VPN connection.
- Threat Manager to block websites and apps from communicating with third parties and trackers.
- Network Lock Kill Switch to block all traffic until the connection is restored.
- No connection logs of your traffic data or DNS queries.
ExpressVPN is the best VPN to watch Showtime in Japan, thanks to its highly-optimized server network that ensures buffer-free streaming and no server disconnections. The VPN has 3000 servers in 105 countries, with 25 US server locations.
Upon connecting to the USA – New York server, we got immediate access to Showtime content. For the best streaming experience, servers like New York and Los Angeles are highly recommended.
ExpressVPN is our top recommendation for unblocking Showtime in Japan without any hassle.
These servers offer remarkable streaming speeds and ensure a buffer-free experience. On a 100 Mbps connection, ExpressVPN delivers download speeds averaging around 92.26 Mbps, making it ideal for streaming Twin Peaks: The Return and The Affair on Showtime.
We got these speeds while testing ExpressVPN on 100 Mbps.
Besides Showtime, ExpressVPN lets you access other geo-restricted streaming platforms in Japan. Whether it’s Hulu, HBO Max, or Disney+, ExpressVPN’s robust server network effortlessly unblocks these services, offering diverse viewing options.
ExpressVPN is compatible with many devices, including iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS.This VPN also has MediaStreamer, which lets you stream Showtime on Xbox, PlayStation, and Roku, which lack VPN support.
It secures every connection with AES-256-bit encryption and Private DNS on every server. Features like a kill switch and DNS/IP leak protection further enhance your online security, safeguarding your data from potential breaches.
ExpressVPN costs JPY 1029.45 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free with a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can use 5 connections simultaneously on supported devices.
2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch Showtime in Japan
- CleanWeb for browsing the internet with no phishing attempts, ads, malware, or trackers
- Bypasser, which lets you stream Showtime while accessing local sites
- NoBorders Mode for accessing Showtime in areas with high internet restrictions
- Secure IKEv2/IPsec protocols
Surfshark is an affordable VPN to watch Showtime in Japan as it’s available for JPY 384.31 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. Despite the low price point, you get access to 3200+ servers in 100 countries, with 600+ servers in the US.
For optimal streaming of Showtime in Japan, Los Angeles, and Chicago, servers are highly recommended. These servers are not only fast but also reliable for accessing geo-restricted content.
Surfshark instantly unblocks Showtime in the Japanese region and lets you stream in HD.
Users can expect consistent speeds, ensuring a smooth streaming experience even during peak hours. During the speed test, Surfshark delivers 88.48Mbps download speed and 79.42Mbps upload speed on a 100Mbps network.
Surfshark speed test on 100 Mbps internet connection
Surfshark allows unlimited connections on one account and has iOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and Mac apps. In addition, Surfshark has a Smart DNS for configuring its DNS settings on VPN-incompatible devices. With this feature, we could easily stream Showtime on Roku devices.
The VPN doesn’t compromise on security despite its affordable pricing. It offers AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, and private DNS on each server to ensure your online activities remain secure and private. Additionally, features like CleanWeb effectively blocks ads and malware, enhancing your browsing experience.
3. NordVPN – Fastest VPN to Watch Showtime in Japan
- Obfuscated servers that hide your internet activities
- Double Protection, which changes your IP address twice
- Onion Over VPN for enhanced encryption
- Lightweight browser extensions
NordVPN is the fastest VPN to watch Showtime in Japan because it offers the highest download and upload speeds. The VPN provides connection speeds of over 92Mbps download speed on the recommended US servers.
It also boasts a massive network of over 6000+ servers in 61 countries, with 1970+ in the United States. For viewers in Japan, this means easy and quick access to Showtime. Recommended US servers are Atlanta and Miami for their high-speed and reliable connections.
NordVPN is our fastest VPN for streaming Showtime in Japan, with 93.42Mbps download speed and 97.68Mbps upload speed on a 100Mbps network.
NordVPN offers blazing-fast speeds to watch Showtime in Japan!
Security is a hallmark of NordVPN, with AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a Double VPN for an extra layer of protection. These features ensure that online activities, including streaming habits, remain private and secure.
You can get NordVPN to stream Showtime on PS4, Android, macOS, Linux, Windows, and iOS operating systems. It also has the SmartPlay feature for smart TVs, streaming sticks, and other devices that don’t allow VPN app installation. While testing, we could easily watch Showtime on Chromecast using it.
NordVPN is a secure VPN with features like Threat Protection for avoiding online hazards like trackers, viruses, and infected websites. You also get multi-factor authentication, which prevents unauthorized access to your account.
Get NordVPN for JPY 615.82 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
How to Select the Best VPN to Stream Showtime in Japan?
Since there are many VPNs, choosing the right one can be a hassle, especially for watching Showtime in Japan. Here’s what we look for when selecting a streaming VPN:
- Server Count and Quality: Opt for a VPN with a substantial number of servers in the US. More servers mean less congestion and better streaming speeds.
- Streaming Speed: A good VPN should provide sufficient speed to stream Showtime content in high definition without buffering.
- Security Features: Ensure the VPN has robust security features like AES-256 encryption and a no-logs policy to protect online privacy.
- Device Compatibility: The VPN should be compatible with various devices and platforms, as Showtime can be streamed on multiple devices.
- 24/7 Customer Service – a reliable VPN provider must offer support to solve any issue with a fast response time.
Can I Use SmartDNS to Stream Showtime in Japan?
Yes, you can use SmartDNS to stream Showtime in Japan. A Smart DNS is another way to bypass Showtime’s geo-restrictions but without security and encryption features.
Here’s how to stream Showtime with SmartDNS:
- Go to the ExpressVPN website and subscribe to the service.
- Click on “My Account” and copy a DNS address from the MediaStreamer section.
- Go to the “Control Panel” and click “Network and Internet.”
- Click “Network and Sharing” then “Change Adapter Settings.”
- Right-click on the connected network adapter and go to “Properties.”
- Uncheck IPV4, click Properties, and enter the ExpressVPN DNS address.
- Save the settings and enjoy streaming Showtime.
Which Devices are Compatible to Stream Showtime in Japan?
Showtime is compatible with many devices, ensuring you can enjoy its content on your preferred platform. Here is a full list of devices where can you watch Showtime in Japan:
- Smartphones and Tablets (iOS and Android)
- PCs and Laptops (Windows and Mac)
- Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV
- Gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox
- Smart TV: Hisense TV, Sony Bravia, Samsung Smart TV, LG Smart TV with WebOS
How to Watch Showtime on Android in Japan?
Here’s how to watch Showtime on an Android device:
- Sign in to the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Immediately close the Play Store after signing in.
- Open the ExpressVPN app and connect to a US server.
- Launch Play Store and switch to a new account.
- Download and install the Showtime app, sign in, and start streaming.
How can I watch US Showtime in Japan on iOS?
Follow these easy steps to stream Showtime in Japan on iOS devices:
- Launch the ExpressVPN app and connect to a US server.
- Go to “Settings” and tap your Apple ID profile.
- Go to “Media and Purchases,” tap “Country/Region,” and select “Change Country or Region.”
- Switch to the United States and “Agree” to the terms and conditions.
- Provide the requested information and any random US address and number.
- Go to the App Store and change your region to the US.
- Download the Showtime app, log in, and enjoy your favorites.
How to Watch Showtime on Smart TV in Japan?
You can watch Showtime shows and movies on a Samsung Smart TV. Here are the steps on how to get Showtime in Japan on your Smart TV:
- Connect your Smart TV to your Wi-Fi router.
- Configured your router with ExpressVPN MediaStreamer.
- Click the Smart Hub button on your remote control.
- Select Apps and scroll down until you find the Showtime app or the Showtime Anytime app.
- Install the app, log in, and start enjoying Showtime.
Bonus: The process to watch Showtime on Apple TV is similar, but you’ll get the app from the Apple App Store.
What to Watch on Showtime in 2024
Showtime has an expansive content library includes original and licensed shows and films. Here’s what to watch on Showtime in Japan with a VPN:
Best Shows on Showtime in 2024
Showtime has a large collection of popular shows and dramas. You can go through the list below to find worth-watching Showtime series if you are wondering what series should I watch on SHOWTIME in Japan in 2024:
- Brotherhood
- Canelo Vs Charlo
- The 12th Victim
- Your Honor Season 2
- Rodriguez vs Lopez
- Spence vs Crawford Fight
- The Chi Season 6
- All up in the Biz
- Billions Season 7
- A Love Song
Best Showtime Movies to Watch in 2024
Showtime is home to the most exciting films. You can go through the list below to find worth-watching Showtime movies in Japan in 2024:
- The Fits
- Need for Speed
- The Florida Project
- The Crow
- The 40-Year-Old Virgin
- Meek’s Cutoff
- Stand
- Snowpiercer
- Byomkesh
- Stolen in Plain Sight
- Mean Girls
- Begin Again
What’s New on Showtime in February 2024?
Here’s everything you can watch on Showtime in February 2024:
- Mayor of Kingstown Episode 2
- Thriller 40
- Billions Season 7 Episode 3
- Jules
- Fellow Travelers
- Mixtape
- The Chi Season 6 Episode 4
- labor Day
- Everything Everywhere All at Once
How to Fix Showtime Not Working in Japan?
Showtime only allows those in the US access to the content, but as we’ve demonstrated, you can use a VPN to watch in Japan. However, you might get a Showtime not working related issue, and here’s how to fix it:
- Check if your subscription is valid – Showtime is a subscription-based streaming service and won’t work if your subscription has ended. Pay the subscription fee to continue streaming,
- Restart your device – if you start experiencing video glitches, audio, and blank screen errors, restart your device to clear any temporary errors.
- Delete downloads – full storage causes downloading errors and buffering, so create space by deleting old downloads in your device to keep streaming.
- Clear showtime cache data and cookies – cache data and cookies usually contain location data, allowing Showtime to know your actual location even when using a VPN. Clear this data to avoid detection and boost the performance of your device.
- Update the Showtime app –older Showtime apps have bugs and glitches, so update to the latest version to avoid interruptions.
- Upgrade to a premium VPN – If none of the above methods work for you, you need to subscribe to a reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN.
Even then, if the above steps don’t work for you, then we have a detailed guide on different Showtime not working fixing methods to make sure your Showtime app issue is resolved quickly without any hassle.
Other Streaming Platforms You Can Access in Japan
Our recommended VPNs unblocking capabilities extend beyond Showtime, as they efficiently unblock other popular streaming platforms in Japan. Using them, you also get seamless access to the following streaming services and broaden your entertainment options.
| Rai TV in Japan | Disney+ Hotstar in Japan |
| Paramount Plus in Japan | Sky Sports in Japan |
| Kayo Sports in Japan | ESPN Plus in Japan |
What to Watch on Showtime in Japan in 2024?
Showtime boasts a diverse selection of content in 2024. From critically acclaimed series like “Your Honor” and “City on a Hill” to blockbuster movies and exclusive documentaries, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what to watch on Showtime in UK with a VPN:
What’s New on Showtime in February 2024?
Out of the many sought-after titles available on Showtime, here’s a list of the best shows and movies Showtime has to offer this February 2024:
| The Kite Runner | American Gigolo |
| The Perks of Being a Wallflower | Mayor of Kingstown Episode 2 |
| Dance Flick | Mystic Pizza |
Best Showtime Shows to Watch in 2024
Here’s a list of the best Showtime shows to watch in 2024:
| Spence vs Crawford Fight | Boys in Blue |
| Twin Peaks: The Return | The Affair |
| The Man Who Fell to Earth | The 12th Victim |
| Murder in Big Horn | Your Honor Season 2 |
| Byomkesh | Spector |
| Californication | Brotherhood |
| The Chi Season 6 | All Up In The Biz |
Best Showtime Movies to Watch in 2024
Showtime is home to the most exciting films. You can go through the list below to find worth-watching Showtime movies in UK:
| Need for Speed | Stolen in Plain Sight |
| Stand | Raiders of the Lost Ark |
| Confess, Fletch | Hit the Road |
| A Love Song | Midsommar |
| Mother! | Sheryl |
| Twilight | Infinite Storm |
| Dallas Buyers Club | Nothing Compares |
| Legally Blonde | The Lighthouse |
| Child’s Play | An American Werewolf in London |
| Self-Exclusion 2023 | Trapped in Paradise |
| Airplane II: The Sequel | Insomnia |
FAQs
Does Showtime work in Japan?
Is SHOWTIME available internationally?
Is SHOWTIME free with Amazon Prime?
Is SHOWTIME a part of Netflix?
How to watch Showtime for free in Japan? Is a free trial available?
How to fix I can’t access Showtime Anytime app with VPN in Japan?
Where can I watch Showtime free in Japan?
Is it illegal to stream Showtime in Japan?
Does Showtime block VPNs in Japan?
Can I get Showtime free on Roku in Japan?
Does VPN work with Showtime in Japan?
Wrapping it Up!
That’s everything on how to watch Showtime in Japan. Showtime is a premium US streaming service with some of the best shows.
However, since Showtime only works in the US and its territories, you’ll need a VPN to access it in Japan. We recommend using ExpressVPN to get the best Showtime streaming experience in Japan.
We hope we answer all your questions in this guide. Happy Streaming!
