Netflix Plans Japanese Launch for Fall

TOKYO/LOS ANGELES: Netflix is expanding into Japan this fall, lining up a selection of Japanese series and movies to fit alongside its existing slate of originals, docs, stand-up specials and more.

The rollout in Japan, which has about 36 million broadband households, will follow the previously announced March expansion of the service into Australia and New Zealand. At launch, a roster of Japanese TV series and films will be available, along with Netflix originals such as Marco Polo, Sense8, Marvel's Daredevil and Virunga. The Japanese launch serves as part of Netflix's efforts to complete its global rollout by the end of 2016.

Netflix will soon open a regional office in Tokyo. Gregory K. Peters, the chief streaming and partnerships officer at Netflix, has been promoted to general manager of Netflix Japan.

"With its rich culture and celebrated creative traditions, Japan is a critical component of our plan to connect people around the world to stories they love," said Reed Hastings, the CEO at Netflix. "As we expand into Asia, we're excited Netflix members increasingly will have access to some of their favorite movies and TV shows no matter where they are."

"It is an honor to bring Netflix to Japan, and we'll work hard to please consumers there," added Peters. "People in Japan soon will have access to great entertainment from all over the world for a low monthly price, while our more than 57 million members will benefit from increased access to great Japanese films and TV shows."