10 Cheapest Ways: Send Money Japan to China (2026 Guide)

Quick Summary: Best Options for JPY to CNY Transfers

For 2026, the cheapest way to send money from Japan to China is typically through digital remittance specialists rather than traditional banks. Providers like Panda Remit and Wise generally offer the most competitive exchange rates by utilizing mid-market rates or low markups. For recipients in China, services that integrate directly with Alipay and WeChat Pay offer the fastest settlement times compared to SWIFT bank transfers.

Why Cost Efficiency Matters for Migration & Overseas Work

For Japanese residents and expatriates working in Japan, remittance costs significantly impact disposable income. When sending salary remittances (JPY) to support family or savings in China (CNY), a difference of 1-2% in exchange rate margins can result in a loss of thousands of Yen per transaction. In 2026, with fluctuating JPY valuations, selecting a provider with transparent FX margins is critical for long-term wealth preservation.

Comparison: Top 10 Money Transfer Services (Japan to China)

Analysis of Top Providers

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit specializes in the Asian market. It is often cited for its competitive JPY to CNY rates. The service allows users to fund transfers via Japanese bank accounts and delivers funds directly to Chinese digital wallets (Alipay/WeChat) or UnionPay cards. Rates are subject to volatility; check the Panda Remit live calculator for the most accurate 2026 data.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is known for using the mid-market exchange rate without a hidden markup, charging a transparent percentage fee instead. It is a strong option for users who prioritize fee transparency over speed, though their integration with Alipay has improved speed significantly in recent years.

3. SBI Remit

A popular choice for foreign residents in Japan due to its integration with convenience store ATMs (Lawson, FamilyMart). While convenient for cash-based senders, the exchange rates may be less competitive than purely digital apps.

4. Western Union

Best for emergency cash pickups in rural China where digital wallets or bank accounts might not be accessible. Fees vary significantly based on whether the sender pays via credit card or bank transfer.

5. Remitly

Offers a tiered service: "Express" for speed and "Economy" for lower fees. Remitly is a viable alternative for users who need guaranteed delivery times to Alipay.

6. Seven Bank

Widely used by foreign workers in Japan due to the ubiquity of 7-Eleven ATMs. The service is reliable but often carries higher exchange rate markups compared to fintech competitors.

7. Revolut

Revolut Japan offers competitive rates for smaller transfer amounts during weekdays. However, weekend FX markups and limits on free exchange amounts can increase costs for larger remittances.

8. WorldRemit

Focuses on mobile-to-mobile transfers. While fast, users should compare the total cost (fee + exchange rate margin) against Panda Remit and Wise before sending large amounts.

9. Bank of China (Tokyo Branch)

Ideal for very large transfers (e.g., property down payments) where SWIFT reliability is preferred over speed. However, senders must account for lifting fees and intermediary bank charges.

10. Rakuten Bank

A purely digital Japanese bank offering international transfers. While convenient for existing Rakuten ecosystem users, the costs often include "lifting fees" that make it more expensive than specialized remittance apps.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

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

• Japan (FSA): All legitimate remittance providers must be registered with the Kanto Local Finance Bureau or the Financial Services Agency (FSA). Users must complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification, typically requiring a "My Number" card or Residence Card (Zairyu Card).
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) enforces an annual foreign exchange quota of USD 50,000 equivalent per Chinese citizen. Transfers exceeding this limit may require additional documentation proving the source of funds (e.g., tax returns or salary slips).

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

When comparing the "cheapest" options, users must look beyond the upfront transfer fee:

• Exchange Rate Markup: Banks often hide 2-3% fees in the exchange rate.
• Intermediary Bank Fees: SWIFT transfers often incur fees ($15-$30) deducted by banks handling the transaction between Japan and China.
• Lifting Fees: Japanese banks often charge a fee (approx. 2,500 - 4,000 JPY) to process outgoing foreign currency.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is particularly optimized for the JPY to CNY corridor. In the current 2026 market landscape, it distinguishes itself through:

• Official Partnerships: Panda Remit maintains official partnerships with major Chinese payment networks, including Alipay and WeChat Pay. This ensures compliance and reduces the risk of frozen funds.
• Digital Efficiency: By bypassing the traditional SWIFT network for small-to-medium transfers, it avoids intermediary bank fees.
• Transparency: The platform displays the exact amount the recipient will receive in CNY before the transaction is finalized.

FAQs: Sending Money from Japan to China

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

Yes, provided the service is licensed. Panda Remit employs bank-level security encryption. However, for large amounts like 1,000,000 JPY, users must ensure the recipient has not exceeded their annual USD 50,000 foreign exchange quota in China.

How does the $50,000 limit affect sending money to China in 2026?

The SAFE annual limit applies to the recipient converting foreign currency to CNY. If sending directly to Alipay or WeChat Pay, the system will often automatically block the transfer if the recipient has exceeded their quota.

Can I send money directly to WeChat Pay from a Japanese bank account?

Most traditional Japanese banks cannot send directly to WeChat Pay. You typically need to use a specialized remittance service like Panda Remit, Wise, or Remitly that acts as a bridge between your Japanese bank account and the Chinese digital wallet ecosystem.

What documents do I need to send money from Japan?

To comply with Japanese law, you will need a valid Residence Card (Zairyu Card) and your "My Number" (Individual Number) card or notification slip to verify your identity before making your first transfer.

Which provider offers the best exchange rate for JPY to CNY today?

Exchange rates fluctuate every second. Generally, Panda Remit and Wise offer rates closest to the mid-market rate. It is recommended to compare the "Recipient Gets" amount on both apps immediately before sending.