YouTube Premium in Japan now starts at ¥780 per month, giving you ad‑free video, background playback, and YouTube Music. To get the lowest price, skip VPN tricks and choose the annual or Family plan, which cut the monthly cost by up to 70 %. Adding a carrier coupon can even make the first year free.
What You Get with the ¥780 Basic Plan
The entry‑level subscription removes all pre‑roll and mid‑roll ads, lets music keep playing when you switch apps, and includes full access to YouTube Music at no extra charge. It’s billed monthly, so you can cancel anytime if you change your mind.
Why VPN Discounts No Longer Work
In the past, users tried to connect through VPNs to countries with cheaper rates and used local cards to snag discounts. Google now cross‑checks IP locations, device fingerprints, and the issuing bank in real time. Most VPN attempts are blocked at checkout, and persistent users risk account suspension.
Cheapest Legal Ways to Subscribe
- Annual Plan: Pay ¥9,360 for a year and save roughly 15 % compared to the monthly price.
- Family Plan: One ¥1,980 monthly fee shared by up to six members drops the per‑head cost to as low as ¥330 when fully used.
- Carrier Coupons: Mobile providers often offer three‑month free trials that stack with the annual discount, effectively giving you a “first‑year‑free” experience.
Annual Plan Savings
If you’re comfortable committing for a year, the annual plan reduces the monthly effective price from ¥780 to about ¥780 × 0.85, which equals ¥660 per month.
Family Plan Savings
Gathering family members is the most powerful cost‑cutting move. With just three members, each pays only ¥660 per month; with six, the cost falls to ¥330 each.
Carrier Coupon Boosts
Check your mobile provider’s portal for hidden “Rewards” codes. Many carriers hide three‑month free‑trial coupons that you can apply during checkout, and they work without any VPN or special setup.
How to Choose the Right Plan for You
- Use the web checkout on an Android device for the most accurate price—Apple’s commission can make the iOS price higher.
- Count how many people in your household could share a Family plan; even one extra member can halve your cost.
- Look for current carrier promotions before you click “Subscribe.” The discount code is usually listed under “Rewards” or “Offers.”
- Avoid VPN shortcuts; they’re risky and often lead to blocked accounts.
Quick Action Checklist
- Check your device: Use the web version on Android for the lowest listed price.
- Gather family members: Add up to six users to maximize the Family plan discount.
- Search for carrier coupons: Log into your mobile provider’s portal and apply any available code.
- Skip VPN hacks: Stick to the legal routes to keep your account safe.
