9 Safest Ways to Send Money to China from Japan (2026)

Quick Summary: The Safest Options for JPY to CNY

The safest ways to send money from Japan to China in 2026 include regulated bank transfers (such as SMBC or Seven Bank) and licensed digital providers like Wise, Panda Remit, and SBI Remit. Security is determined by licensure from Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA), adherence to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) limits in China, and direct integration with payout networks like Alipay and WeChat Pay.

Why Safety Matters: Frequency & Transfer Pattern

In 2026, financial regulators in both Japan and China utilize AI-driven monitoring to detect irregularities in cross-border transactions. Selecting a provider is not merely about the lowest fee; it is about matching the service to your Transfer Pattern.

• High Frequency, Low Value: Digital wallets and remittance apps are optimized for these patterns but may trigger AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks if velocity limits are exceeded.
• Low Frequency, High Value: Traditional SWIFT transfers or specialized remittance services with robust KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols are preferred to prevent funds from being frozen by intermediary banks.

Comparison: Top Providers for JPY to CNY Transfers

Analysis of the 9 Safest Providers

1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency. For JPY to CNY transfers, Wise utilizes the mid-market exchange rate without a markup, charging a variable fee instead. It connects directly to Alipay and WeChat Pay, ensuring funds reach Chinese recipients without passing through the SWIFT network, which reduces the risk of intermediary deductions.

2. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has gained significant traction for the Japan-China corridor due to its specific focus on Asian markets. It operates under the Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Reg No. 00079). Its primary strength lies in its digital integration with mainland Chinese payment ecosystems, allowing for rapid settlement.

3. SBI Remit

A subsidiary of the SBI Group, this service is deeply integrated into the Japanese financial system. It is particularly popular among foreign residents in Japan due to its integration with convenience store ATMs (Lawson, FamilyMart) for funding transfers.

4. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding exchange rate margins, Western Union offers the largest physical network. This is the safest option if the recipient in China does not have a bank account or digital wallet and requires physical cash pickup.

5. Seven Bank

Seven Bank offers an international money transfer service accessible via their ubiquitous ATMs across Japan. While convenient, the exchange rates are typically set by the bank with a markup, and transfer times can be slower than fintech competitors.

6. Remitly

Remitly offers tiered transfer speeds (Express vs. Economy). For users sending JPY to CNY, the Express option utilizes debit cards for funding, ensuring fast delivery to Alipay or WeChat wallets.

7. SMBC (Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation)

For very large transfers (e.g., property purchases or tuition), traditional banks like SMBC are often preferred despite higher fees (lifting fees and SWIFT charges). They offer the highest level of institutional trust and paper trails required for tax audits.

8. Revolut

Revolut Japan allows users to hold and exchange currencies. While convenient for frequent travelers, users should verify the current limits for transfers to Chinese UnionPay cards, as these corridors are subject to frequent policy updates.

9. WorldRemit

WorldRemit focuses on mobile-to-mobile transfers. It is a viable alternative for smaller, personal remittances, though its rates for JPY to CNY should be compared against Wise and Panda Remit before execution.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money from Japan to China involves strict adherence to two regulatory frameworks:

• Japan (FSA): Under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act, all remittances exceeding 1 million JPY require strict declaration. Furthermore, the "My Number" card is mandatory for identity verification (KYC) for almost all international transfer services in Japan.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange enforces an annual limit of $50,000 USD (equivalent) for foreign exchange settlements by Chinese nationals. Transfers exceeding this may require the recipient to provide documentation (e.g., proof of family relation or income) to their local bank.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the upfront transfer fee, users must be aware of:

• Lifting Fees: Traditional banks often charge a fee (approx. 2,500–4,000 JPY) for handling incoming foreign currency or processing SWIFT messages.
• Exchange Rate Margins: Many providers claim "zero fees" but add a 1%–3% markup to the exchange rate.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Avoid allowing the receiving bank to convert the currency. Always send in JPY or convert to CNY within the sending platform to lock in the rate.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is particularly optimized for the JPY to CNY corridor. Unlike generic global providers, Panda Remit has established official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as UnionPay.

Why this matters for safety:

• Traceability: Transfers are tracked digitally from the Japanese funding source to the Chinese digital wallet.
• Compliance: As a registered funds transfer service provider in Japan, Panda Remit adheres to Japanese capital flight regulations.
• Speed: By bypassing the traditional SWIFT network for wallet transfers, the window for potential fraud or error is significantly reduced.

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 you have completed the necessary KYC (Know Your Customer) verification, including submitting your My Number card. Panda Remit is regulated by the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. However, large transfers may trigger a manual review to ensure compliance with Japanese anti-money laundering laws.

Do I need a My Number Card to send money to China in 2026?

Yes. Japanese law requires the submission of a My Number (Individual Number) card or notification card with photo ID for all international money transfer services to ensure tax compliance and identity verification.

What is the limit for sending money from Japan to China via Alipay?

Limits are generally determined by the remittance provider (e.g., Wise or Panda Remit) and Alipay's receiving limits. Typically, Alipay allows up to 50,000 CNY per transaction for remittances, but this is subject to the recipient's annual foreign exchange quota ($50,000 USD equivalent).

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

Exchange rates fluctuate minutely. Generally, digital-first providers like Panda Remit and Wise offer rates closer to the mid-market rate compared to traditional banks like SMBC or Japan Post Bank. Always compare the "amount received" rather than just the exchange rate to account for fees.

How long does a bank transfer from Japan to China take?

Traditional SWIFT transfers via banks (e.g., MUFG, Mizuho) typically take 2 to 5 business days. In contrast, digital transfers to Alipay or WeChat Pay via fintech apps can often be completed in minutes.