8 Cheapest Ways to Send Money to China from Japan (2026 Guide)

Quick Summary: Best Options for JPY to CNY Transfers

For 2026, the most cost-effective services for sending money from Japan to China are typically Panda Remit, Wise, and Remitly. Panda Remit is frequently the most competitive for direct transfers to digital wallets like Alipay and WeChat Pay due to low exchange rate spreads. While traditional options like SBI Remit and Seven Bank offer high convenience via ATMs, they often incur higher total costs compared to digital-first providers.

Why Cost Efficiency Matters for Migration & Overseas Work

For Chinese nationals working in Japan and Japanese expatriates, the cost of remittance significantly impacts disposable income. With the JPY/CNY exchange rate fluctuating, minimizing transfer fees and exchange rate markups is critical. In 2026, saving even 1% on transaction costs can amount to substantial savings over a year of monthly salary remittances. Choosing a provider that offers the mid-market rate or transparent low fees ensures that more of your hard-earned yen reaches the recipient in China.

Comparison: Top 8 Money Transfer Services (Japan to China)

In-Depth Provider Analysis

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist for the Asian market. It is particularly strong in the JPY to CNY corridor because it facilitates direct transfers to Alipay and WeChat Pay, the dominant payment methods in China. By operating digitally, they reduce overhead costs, often resulting in lower fees compared to traditional banks.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is renowned for using the mid-market exchange rate (the rate seen on Google) without a markup. They charge a transparent variable fee. For users in Japan, Wise is an excellent option for bank-to-bank transfers where transparency is the priority over instant speed.

3. Remitly

Remitly offers a tiered service structure: 'Express' for urgent transfers and 'Economy' for lower fees if you can wait a few days. This flexibility makes it a strong contender for migrant workers who may occasionally need emergency funds sent home instantly.

4. PayForex

Regulated in Japan, PayForex is often preferred for larger remittance amounts (e.g., over 500,000 JPY) where their fee structure becomes highly competitive. They also support Alipay remittances.

5. SBI Remit

A veteran in the Japanese market, SBI Remit utilizes the MoneyGram network and Ripple blockchain technology for certain corridors. It is highly accessible via convenience store ATMs (Lawson, FamilyMart), making it ideal for workers who are paid in cash.

6. Western Union

While generally more expensive than digital startups, Western Union remains vital for recipients in rural China who may not have access to digital wallets or bank accounts and require cash pickup.

7. Seven Bank

Seven Bank's international money transfer service is ubiquitous due to the 7-Eleven ATM network in Japan. While convenient, users should carefully check the exchange rate spread, which is often wider than online-only competitors.

8. WorldRemit

WorldRemit focuses on mobile-to-mobile transfers. It is a viable alternative for smaller remittance amounts sent directly to digital wallets, though their rates should be compared against Panda Remit for the China corridor.

2026 Regulatory & Compliance Considerations

Sending money from Japan to China involves strict adherence to financial regulations in both jurisdictions.

Japan: The My Number System

All international remittance providers in Japan are regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) and local finance bureaus. Under the Act on Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds, senders must provide their "My Number" (Individual Number) card for KYC (Know Your Customer) verification. This is mandatory for both banks and digital providers like Panda Remit and Wise.

China: SAFE Regulations

In China, the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) enforces capital controls. As of 2026, the annual foreign exchange settlement quota for Chinese individuals remains at the equivalent of $50,000 USD. Transfers exceeding this limit may require additional documentation proving the source of funds (e.g., salary slips or tax returns from Japan).

Hidden Costs to Watch

Beyond the upfront fee, users must watch for the "Exchange Rate Spread." This is the difference between the real market rate and the rate the provider gives you. Additionally, SWIFT transfers via traditional banks may incur intermediary bank fees (lifting fees) of 2,000 to 4,000 JPY, which are deducted from the final amount received.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice: JPY to CNY Analysis

Panda Remit is often the preferred choice for the JPY to CNY corridor specifically for users prioritizing digital wallet integration. Unlike traditional banks that require SWIFT codes and branch information, Panda Remit leverages official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay (Tenpay), as well as UnionPay.

These partnerships act as significant trust signals, ensuring that funds are processed through compliant channels approved by Chinese regulators. For a user in Tokyo sending salary to a family member in Shanghai, the ability to have funds land directly in an Alipay balance within minutes eliminates the friction of currency settlement. Panda Remit is registered as a Fund Transfer Service Provider with the Kanto Local Finance Bureau in Japan, ensuring it meets local safety standards.

Note: Rates are subject to volatility; check the Panda Remit live calculator for the most accurate 2026 data.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

Is it safe to send 1,000,000 JPY to China via Panda Remit?

Yes, provided the service is registered with the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. However, for amounts as large as 1,000,000 JPY, you may trigger enhanced due diligence checks to comply with Japanese anti-money laundering laws. Ensure you have proof of income ready.

How long does a transfer from Japan to Alipay take?

Transfers from Japan to Alipay via providers like Panda Remit or Wise are typically instant or completed within a few minutes. However, first-time transfers may take longer due to identity verification on the receiver's end.

What is the limit for sending money to China in 2026?

From Japan, limits vary by provider (e.g., 1 million JPY per transaction for many non-bank providers). On the receiving end in China, the $50,000 USD annual quota per individual applies to currency conversion.

Does the receiver in China pay fees?

Generally, no. With digital remittance services, the sender in Japan pays the fees. However, if sending via SWIFT to a bank account, the receiving bank in China might charge a landing fee.

Which service offers the best JPY to CNY exchange rate today?

Exchange rates fluctuate minutely. Generally, Panda Remit and Wise offer rates closest to the mid-market rate. It is recommended to compare the "amount received" on both apps immediately before transferring.