Hello there!
It’s been about a year since I started living in Hong Kong, and I’ve gradually come to understand the pros and cons of daily life here.
Generally, the internet environment is not significantly different from Japan’s, but there are actually a few things that can’t be done in Hong Kong compared to Japan.
However, with the use of a VPN service, you can enjoy an internet experience in Hong Kong that is similar to what you’re used to in Japan.
In this article, I will introduce the differences in the internet environment between Japan and Hong Kong, as well as recommend some VPN services that are popular in Hong Kong.
Things You Can’t Do in Hong Kong’s Internet Environment
This is not limited to Hong Kong, but when you try to use internet services from outside Japan, you are usually required to pay in the local currency.
For example, the services I use, such as Netflix for watching videos, Cambly for online English lessons, and Amazing Talker for Chinese lessons, all require payments in the local currency.
In Hong Kong, the cost of living is considerably higher compared to Japan, and the prices of these subscription services are also set at a premium when compared to yen-based pricing. Personally, I’ve noticed that services like Cambly can have a difference of nearly 10,000 yen between Hong Kong dollar and yen payments.
As long as you live in Hong Kong, there’s not much you can do about this. However, by using a VPN service and making payments via a Japanese connection, you can conveniently pay in yen, just like when you’re in Japan.
Frankly, even just for this reason, there are plenty of advantages to using a VPN.
Platforms Unavailable in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, access to video streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, DMM TV, Hulu, and U-NEXT is restricted. Additionally, services like Chat GPT cannot be accessed.
There are times when you want to watch Japanese movies or dramas, right? In such cases, using a VPN allows you to access these services just as you would in Japan.
There may be occasions when you travel or have business trips to mainland China. In mainland China, services like LINE and YouTube, which were created outside of China, are not accessible.
However, by using a VPN, you can access these services even in mainland China. It’s important to note that the availability of VPNs in China is limited, so you need to choose carefully.
By the way, while Hong Kong is part of China, you can use LINE, YouTube, and other services without the need for a VPN, so no worries there.
Recommended VPNs for Use in Hong Kong
NordVPN is known for its fast and secure VPN service. It prioritizes privacy protection and is recommended for Japanese users in Hong Kong.
With a large number of servers, including servers located in Hong Kong, it provides fast connections to Hong Kong.
It also offers strong security features such as robust encryption and a strict no-logs policy to ensure your privacy. NordVPN has a user-friendly interface and supports simultaneous connections on multiple devices, making it convenient for Japanese users.
It is a reliable and highly regarded option for enhancing the internet experience in Hong Kong.
Check out NordVPN
Suica VPN is a VPN service specialized in accessing Japanese video streaming platforms and can be used on most platforms.
According to their official website, the following platforms are accessible. It is recommended for those who want to watch a lot of Japanese videos even when they are abroad.
Express VPN is a high-end VPN provider that has received high praise from VPN users around the world for its performance and specifications.
In addition to fast connectivity, Express VPN is one of the top VPN providers known for its robust security, proven privacy protection, user-friendly interface, excellent customer support, and compatibility with a wide range of devices.
Furthermore, it offers additional services and has established partnerships with well-known companies, making it a reputable provider recognized not only by individual users but also by businesses worldwide.
Summary
In this article, we introduced three VPNs that can be used in Hong Kong.
VPN services are highly beneficial as they allow users to connect to the internet as if they were in Japan even when they are abroad.
If you are planning to travel or reside overseas, we recommend considering these VPN services.
Until next time!
