If you've ever tried streaming Radiko while traveling or living outside Japan, you've likely seen this frustrating message:
"This service is available only in Japan."
Radiko is Japan's most popular radio streaming service that is a treasure for fans of Japanese news, music, and culture. Unfortunately, it's geo-restricted to Japan, meaning listeners outside the country can't normally access it. But don't worry. Whether you're a Japanese expat, a language learner, or a traveler missing your favorite shows, this guide will walk you through how to listen to Radiko outside Japan easily and safely.

- Part 1. Why You Can't Access Radiko Outside Japan?
- Part 2. How to Listen to Radiko Outside Japan Freely
- Part 3. Troubleshooting: Radiko Not Working Outside Japan
- Part 4. FAQs about Radiko Outside Japan
- Part 5. Conclusion
Part 1. Why You Can't Access Radiko Outside Japan?
Radiko is a free internet radio platform that allows users in Japan to stream live broadcasts from major radio stations, including NHK Radio, Tokyo FM, and TBS Radio. However, due to licensing restrictions, Radiko only allows streaming within Japan. The restriction exists because of broadcasting licenses that only cover Japan.
If your IP address is not located in Japan, access is automatically denied. Radiko uses IP-based geo-restriction technology to detect where you're connecting from. When you visit the site or app, your IP address reveals your country. Some mobile versions even use GPS checks to confirm your physical location, especially on Android.
Part 2. How to Listen to Radiko Outside Japan Freely
Although Radiko only authorizes users to stream their content within Japan, there are still several methods to help you access Radiko outside Japan. The most reliable and simplest method is to use a location changer that changes device location to Japan, allowing Radiko to recognize your connection as if it's from Japan. Let's explore the main methods and what each involves.
Method | Works with Radiko? | Difficulty | Security | Recommendation |
---|---|---|---|---|
Location Changer | Yes | Easy | High | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
VPN Services | Yes | Medium | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Proxy Sites | Sometimes | Medium | Low | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Chrome Extensions | Sometimes | Medium | Low | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Method 1. Access Radiko Outside Japan via Location Changer
If you want to listen to Radiko outside Japan, one helpful tool is MagFone Location Changer that can spoof the GPS location of your iPhone or Android device so Radiko thinks you're physically in Japan. MagFone Location Changer allows users to teleport to any point in the world. With several clicks, you can quickly and safely change your device location to Japan.

MagFone Location Changer
Easily change your GPS location on iOS and Android devices to anywhere with one click, while not requiring root or jailbreaking!
Step 1 Connect Your Device to a Computer

Open MagFone Location Changer on your computer and choose Change Location. Then connect your device to the computer via a USB cable and enable Developer Mode on the device.
Step 2 Start to Change Location to Japan

Select a location like Tokyo in Japan on MagFone's map. Use the teleport mode to set your device's GPS location instantly to that spot. Click Start or Modify to apply.
Method 2. Access Radiko Outside Japan via VPN Services
A VPN is a straightforward way to unlock Radiko outside Japan. It encrypts your internet connection and routes it through a Japanese server, effectively bypassing geo-blocks. By enabling a VPN, you can switch your IP address to Japan, then access Radiko without limitations.

Step 1. Choose a reliable VPN provider with servers in Japan.
Step 2. Download and install the VPN app on your device.
Step 3. Connect to a Japanese server.
Step 4. Go to Radiko.jp and start streaming your favorite stations.
Method 3. Access Radiko Outside Japan via Proxy Sites
A Smart DNS or proxy can also route your connection through Japan, but unlike a location changer or a VPN, it doesn't encrypt data. These methods can work for streaming but are less secure and often unreliable if Radiko updates its detection systems.

Step 1. Navigate to a proxy site with Japan server on your device.
Step 2. Enter the website address of Radiko and start playing your liked shows.
Method 4. Access Radiko Outside Japan via Chrome Extensions
Some advanced users relay on Rajiko, a Radiko Chrome extension that modifies requests to bypass Radiko's region check. However, this method may not always works, especially when Radiko updates its system. It also requires some technical know-how.

Step 1. Install Rajiko from Chrome webstore or Firefox addons.
Step 2. Navigate to Radiko.jp and choose a show to play on your device.
Step 3. Click the extension to start recording live or downloading timeshift.
Step 4. Click the icon or the Pause button to stop recording.
Part 3. Troubleshooting: Radiko Not Working Outside Japan
Unfortunately, there is a situation where Radiko might still detect your location even with a location changer or a VPN. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.
Problems | Possible Causes | Solutions |
---|---|---|
Radiko still blocked | VPN server already flagged | Switch to another Japanese server |
Works on browser but not app | GPS-based check on mobile | Disable location permissions or use desktop |
Connection too slow | Free VPN or overcrowded server | Use premium VPN with faster speeds |
Audio not loading | DNS leaks or cache conflicts | Clear browser cache or restart VPN |
Part 4. FAQs about Radiko Outside Japan
Is it free to listen to Radiko with a VPN?
Yes. Radiko offers a free service for you to stream radio, shows, and more. However, some VPN services may require a subscription. Or you can try finding a free VPN tool to listen to Radiko.
Does Radiko Premium work outside Japan?
No. According to the statement in the official website, even paid Radiko Premium accounts are limited to users physically located within Japan.
Part 5. Conclusion
Accessing Radiko outside Japan is entirely possible whether you're living abroad, studying Japanese, or traveling temporarily. By using some trusted tools and following the right steps in this guide, you can enjoy Japanese radio from anywhere in the world. Just remember to stay aware of the legal context, use secure tools, and keep your expectations realistic as Radiko's geo-blocking systems can change anytime.