How to Create a Japanese App Store (iOS) & Google Play Account: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

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Introduction

To download Japan-exclusive apps like Uma Musume, TVer, Radiko, or Pro Yakyuu Spirits A, you cannot use your US/EU account. You need a Japanese Account.

  • It is FREE.
  • It is LEGAL.
  • You don’t need a Japanese credit card (I will show you the trick).
  • You don’t need to be in Japan (for iOS).

In this guide, I will walk you through the exact steps to create a Japanese Apple ID and Google Play account from anywhere in the world.

Part 1: How to Create a Japanese Apple ID (iOS)

This is the method for iPhone and iPad users. You do not need a VPN for this process, but you do need a valid email address.

Step 1: Create a New Apple ID on the Web

  1. Go to the official appleid.apple.com.
  2. Click “Create Your Apple ID”.
  3. Crucial Step: In the “Country / Region” dropdown, select Japan.
  4. Enter your email and phone number (Your local phone number is fine!).
  5. Verify with the code sent to your phone/email.

Step 2: Sign In on Your Device

  1. On your iPhone/iPad, open the App Store.
  2. Tap your profile icon (top right) and scroll down to Sign Out of your current account.
  3. Sign In with the new Japanese Apple ID you just created.

Step 3: Complete the Account Setup (The Trick)

Once you try to sign in, a pop-up will appear: “This Apple ID has not yet been used in the iTunes Store.”

  1. Tap Review.
  2. Toggle “Agree to Terms and Conditions” -> Next.
  3. Payment Method: Select “None”.
    • Note: If you don’t see “None”, try doing this process without a VPN, or ensure you created the account on the website first.
  4. Billing Address: You need a Japanese address. You can use a hotel address or a random generator.
    • Postal Code: 100-0005
    • Prefecture: Tokyo
    • City: Chiyoda-ku
    • Street: 1-1 Marunouchi
    • Phone: 03-1234-5678 (Random numbers are usually accepted)
  5. Tap Next.

Part 2: How to Create a Japanese Google Play Account (Android)

For Android, Google checks your IP address. You MUST use a VPN.

Step 1: Connect to a VPN

  1. Open your VPN app (Surfshark recommended).
  2. Connect to a Japan server.

Step 2: Create a New Google Account

  1. Go to your phone’s Settings > Accounts > Add Account > Google.
  2. Select “Create account”.
  3. Follow the steps. Skip the phone number verification if possible (or use your own).
  4. Crucial: Since your IP is in Japan, Google will automatically assign this account to the Japan region.

Step 3: Access the Japanese Play Store

  1. Open the Google Play Store.
  2. Switch to the new account you just created.
  3. Try searching for a Japanese game (e.g., “Uma Musume”).
  4. If it appears, you are successful!

⚠️ Troubleshooting: If you still see your local store, try clearing the cache of the Google Play Store app and restarting it while the VPN is on.

Part 3: The “Payment Problem” (How to Buy Items)

You successfully downloaded the game. But when you try to buy in-game items (Gacha) or subscribe to services, you will see an error. “This payment method is not available in your region.”

This is because your US/EU credit card is blocked.

The Solution: Digital Gift Cards

To pay for things in the Japanese store, you must use Japanese iTunes Cards or Google Play Cards.

  1. Buy a digital code from a trusted site.
  2. Redeem the code in your account.
  3. The balance is added in Yen (¥).
  4. Use the Yen to pay.

[>> Check my Full Guide: Where to Buy Japanese Gift Cards & How to Redeem Them] (Link to Gift Card Article)

FAQ

Q: Can I switch my main account’s region instead of making a new one? A: Do not do this. If you switch your main account, you might lose your existing purchases, subscriptions (like Apple Music), and store credit. Always create a separate “Sub-Account” for Japan.

Q: Do I need to keep the VPN on? A:

  • iOS: No. Once downloaded, you can play/use apps without a VPN (unless the app itself blocks IPs like Radiko).
  • Android: Usually no, but for the first download, keep the VPN on.

Conclusion

Creating a Japanese account is the key to unlocking a world of anime games, exclusive apps, and music. It takes less than 10 minutes.

Next Step: Now that your account is ready, make sure you know how to top up your wallet. [>> Read Next: How to Buy Japanese Gift Cards Instantly]

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