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

Why "Cheapest" Depends on Frequency & Transfer Pattern

In international finance, the "cheapest" provider is not static; it fluctuates based on your specific transfer pattern. Fintech algorithms in 2026 differentiate costs based on two main factors:

• Transfer Volume: Flat-fee providers (like Wise) are often better for smaller amounts, whereas providers with percentage-based fees might become costlier as the principal amount increases.
• Payout Method: Sending to a UnionPay card or an Alipay wallet often incurs lower processing costs than a traditional SWIFT wire transfer to a Bank of China account.

Comparison: Top Providers for JPY to CNY Transfers (2026)

The following table compares key metrics for the leading money transfer services operating between Japan and China.

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

Analysis of Top Providers

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist for the Asian corridor. By operating strictly online, they reduce overhead costs, passing savings to users sending JPY. They are fully compliant, holding licenses or operating through partners regulated by entities like the FSA (Japan) and other global bodies.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains the industry standard for transparency. They use the mid-market rate (the one you see on Google) and charge a visible fee. While sometimes slightly more expensive than Panda Remit for specific JPY-CNY wallet transfers, their transparency ensures you never face hidden FX markups.

3. Western Union

While rarely the cheapest option due to wider exchange rate spreads, Western Union's vast network of physical agent locations in China makes it indispensable for recipients who require cash pickup rather than digital deposits.

4. SBI Remit

A strong local contender in Japan, SBI Remit integrates well with the Japanese banking system and convenience stores (Konbini). It is a reliable choice for users who prefer funding transfers via cash at a Lawson or FamilyMart ATM.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice: The JPY to CNY Corridor

In the specific context of 2026, Panda Remit offers distinct advantages for the Japan-to-China route, particularly regarding digital ecosystem integration.

• Partnerships: Panda Remit maintains official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay. This allows for direct remittance to the recipient's digital wallet, which is often the preferred spending method in China.
• Transparency: Unlike traditional banks that may hide fees in the exchange rate spread, Panda Remit displays the amount to be received (CNY) clearly before the transaction is finalized.
• Compliance: Panda Remit operates under strict regulatory frameworks. In major jurisdictions, they are regulated by bodies such as the FCA (UK) and ASIC (Australia), and they adhere to local Japanese financial regulations for JPY collection.

2026 Regulatory & Compliance Considerations

Sending money to China requires navigating strict capital controls. As of 2026, users must be aware of the following:

• SAFE Limits: The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) in China enforces an annual foreign exchange settlement quota equivalent to USD 50,000 per Chinese citizen. Transfers exceeding this may require additional documentation.
• My Number Act (Japan): All international transfers from Japan require the sender to provide their "My Number" (Individual Number) for tax and regulatory compliance.
• Hidden Costs to Watch: Be wary of "Intermediary Bank Fees." When sending via SWIFT (traditional banks), a third-party bank may deduct 2,000–4,000 JPY from the principal. Fintechs like Panda Remit and Wise typically use local payout networks to avoid these lifting fees.

FAQs: Sending Money to China from Japan

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

Yes, it is generally safe. Panda Remit employs bank-level encryption and complies with Japanese financial regulations regarding data security. However, for large amounts (over 1 million JPY), you may be required to provide additional source-of-funds documentation to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) laws.

How do I send money to Alipay from Japan?

To send to Alipay, choose a provider like Panda Remit, Wise, or Remitly that supports this payout method. You will need the recipient's Alipay ID (usually their phone number) and their full legal name in Chinese characters. The recipient must also have enabled "Global Remittances" within their Alipay app.

Which service has the best JPY to CNY exchange rate?

Exchange rates fluctuate by the minute. Generally, Panda Remit and Wise offer rates closest to the mid-market rate. It is recommended to compare the "Amount Received" on both platforms simultaneously before booking a transfer.

Do I need a My Number card to send money from Japan?

Yes. Under Japanese law, financial institutions and money transfer providers must verify your identity using your My Number card (or notification card with photo ID) for any international transfer.

Can I send money to a Weixin (WeChat) wallet from Japan?

Yes, providers like Panda Remit allow transfers directly to Weixin users. The recipient must have a bank card linked to their WeChat Pay account and must authorize the receipt of foreign funds within the app.