How to watch Studio Ghibli on Netflix in the US and Canada
Carolina
Argentinian Carolina has an extensive movie background in the cinematic universe. She is our resident TV analyst and a seasoned expert in global streaming platforms. She showcases her comprehensive knowledge through her love for Netflix 'Originals', Frozen, The Good Place, and The Dragon Prince.
Studio Ghibli animated movies are coming to Netflix globally in February to the rejoice of animation fans around the world.
How if you’re in the US, Canada, and Japan you’re going to be pretty disappointed.
The reason why these three countries are excluded from the deal? Well, it’s all to do with rights agreements.
In Japan, specifically, they already have their distribution channels.
So, if you live in the US, Canada, or Japan, and you have a Netflix account, you’ll be wondering if it’s still possible to stream the Studio Ghibli content.
Thankfully – it is.
Keep scrolling down and I’ll show you how you can watch Ghibli Movies in any country including the US, Canada and Japan.
What you’re going to need
Since Ghibli movies are going to be available in the rest of the world on Netflix, you need to access another Netflix region.
But to do this, you’ll need a VPN app which allows you to change your region.
A VPN is a virtual private network primarily used to protect your internet connection. It does this by using security measures, but you don’t need to think about this – only that it lets you alter your ‘virtual’ location.
You can use this feature to access streaming services that aren’t available in your country or region.#
And of course, different Netflix regions have different shows and movies in their catalogue.
How?
Simple: you connect to a server located in a country where the service is available, let’s say the UK and voilá! You can watch Ghibli movies on Netflix UK.
Yes, even if you’re in the States, or Japan or Canada.
Where to get a VPN
There are a lot of VPNs and sometimes it is hard to know which one to choose. A quick check of Google will leave you with a headache.
But, don’t worry! We already did the job for you.
ExpressVPN is one of the best options you’ll find on the market.
Why?
First and most important: the fast connection speeds which are an essential feature for streaming video and avoiding the buffering.
It’s also effortless to use, even if you’re not that great with tech.
Lastly, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee in case you don’t like the service. And another no less important feature: we know it works with Netflix.
If you want to check out some other options then CyberGhost VPN and NordVPN and worth considering. You’re free to choose!
30-day money back guarantee
Step-by-step
Now you understand what you need it’s time to get it and start using it.
Follow the quick steps below and you’ll be streaming your favourite animation in no time.
Step 1
Go the ExpressVPN website and choose a plan according to your budget.
Remember that the yearly package could look expensive at first glance, but you can save up to 49% over paying monthly, so it’s worth considering.
Step 2
Subscribe to the service by creating an account with your email address and using the payment method of your choice.
Step 3
To get the app for your device, go to the Products section where you’ll find the correct app for your type of device.
And if you’re using a mobile device with Android or Apple iOS, you can go right away to your app store and search ‘ExpressVPN’ to install from there.
Step 4
Once you get the app installed, it’s time to open it and log in with the account credentials you created in the second step.
Step 5
Now it’s the moment to start using the VPN.
Click on the three dots next to ‘Selected Location‘ and then select the ‘United Kingdom‘.
Depending on the device you’re using you may also need to click ‘Connect‘.
Stream Studio Ghibli anywhere using ExpressVPN.
Step 6
Once the app has connected head over to the Netflix website or use their app to start enjoying all the Studio Ghibli content.
30-day money back guarantee
What is Studio Ghibli?
Studio Ghibli is one of the most famous and iconic animation studios in Japan.
They gained worldwide fame for their movies aimed at the family audience with amazing animation quality, and endearing characters and stories.
The studio was founded on 15th June 1985 after the success of Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind that was produced in 1984.
Since then, they have made a total of 21 animated feature films.
The most famous ones are Castle in the Sky, My Neighbour Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Porco Rosso, Princess Mononoke, and the Academy Award winner Spirited Away.
Most films have been directed and produced by Hayao Miyazaki, who is working on a new animated feature to be released soon.
The late Isao Takahata was another of the prolific creators who directed the acclaimed Grave of the Fireflies and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya.
Summary
Studio Ghibli animated feature films are coming to Netflix in February globally except in the US, Canada and Japan.
If you have a Netflix account, you happen to live in one of these countries, and you love animation, you’ll need a VPN to enjoy the best Japanese animation studio movies.
ExpressVPN is the best option for you with fast connection speeds, a money-back guarantee, and a very easy interface to use.
Hurry up and get ready! The most beautiful animation movies are waiting for you on Netflix!
Illustrations © Andrey Apoev | Dreamstime.com
