7 Reliable Ways to Send Money: Japan to China (2026)

Quick Summary: The Best Options for 2026

For individuals sending income, freelance wages, or family support from Japan to China in 2026, the most reliable methods balance regulatory compliance with speed. Wise and Panda Remit are currently the leading digital providers for direct JPY to CNY transfers, offering integration with Alipay and WeChat Pay. For larger, bank-to-bank transfers exceeding 1 million JPY, traditional institutions like SBI Shinsei Bank or 7 Bank remain standard, though they often involve higher SWIFT fees. Always verify the recipient's annual quota with China's SAFE regulations.

Why Reliability Matters for Income and Freelance Transfers

When transferring funds derived from employment or freelance work, reliability goes beyond simple delivery speed. In the corridor between Japan and China, strict financial regulations apply. Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) mandates rigorous identity verification (KYC), specifically requiring the My Number Card for international remittances. Simultaneously, China's State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) monitors inflows.

Using a reliable, regulated provider ensures that:

• Source of Funds is Documented: Essential for tax audits in both jurisdictions.
• Transfers are not Frozen: Compliance with AML (Anti-Money Laundering) protocols prevents indefinite holds.
• Exchange Rates are Fair: Protecting the value of your hard-earned income.

Comparison: Top Providers for JPY to CNY Transfers

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

In-Depth Provider Analysis

1. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency. For freelancers in Japan, Wise is particularly useful because it provides a clear breakdown of fees and uses the mid-market exchange rate without a markup. It connects directly to Chinese bank accounts and major digital wallets.

2. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist for the Asian market. It is often favored for its user experience tailored to Chinese nationals living abroad. The service is fully digital, allowing users in Japan to fund transfers via bank transfer or ATM, with funds arriving directly in the recipient's Alipay or WeChat Pay wallet. Panda Remit operates as a compliant international money transfer service, adhering to Japanese regulatory standards for digital remittances.

3. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding exchange rate margins, Western Union offers an unparalleled physical network. If the recipient in China does not have a bank account or digital wallet, Western Union's cash pickup locations are the most reliable alternative.

4. Remitly

Remitly offers a tiered service: "Express" for speed and "Economy" for lower fees. This flexibility is useful for workers who may need to send money urgently for family emergencies but prefer lower costs for regular monthly income transfers.

5. SBI Shinsei Bank (GoRemit)

For high-net-worth individuals or businesses sending amounts exceeding the typical limits of digital apps (often capped around 1 million JPY per transaction), GoRemit provides a robust traditional banking channel. While slower, it uses the SWIFT network, ensuring traceability for large capital movements.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money from Japan to China involves two distinct regulatory environments. In 2026, compliance remains strict to prevent capital flight and money laundering.

Japan: The "My Number" Requirement

Under the jurisdiction of the Financial Services Agency (FSA), all international remittance providers in Japan must verify the sender's identity using the "My Number" (Individual Number) card. This applies to both banks and digital providers like Panda Remit and Wise. Failure to provide this documentation will result in transaction rejection.

China: SAFE Limits

The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) in China enforces an annual foreign exchange settlement quota equivalent to $50,000 USD per Chinese citizen. If you are sending money to a freelancer or family member in China, ensure they have not exceeded this limit, or the funds may be returned.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is particularly effective for the JPY to CNY corridor due to its specific infrastructure partnerships. Unlike generic global providers, Panda Remit has integrated deeply with Chinese payment networks.

• Official Partnerships: Panda Remit facilitates payouts via Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay. These partnerships act as trust signals, ensuring that transfers are processed through authorized channels recognized by Chinese banking systems.
• Transparency: The platform provides a clear view of the CNY amount the recipient will receive, inclusive of fees, before the transaction is finalized.
• Compliance: As a fintech operating globally, Panda Remit maintains compliance with financial regulations in multiple jurisdictions (such as ASIC in Australia and FSA-registered partners in Japan), ensuring the safety of funds during transit.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the advertised exchange rate, users must be aware of "backend" costs:

• Lifting Fees: When using traditional banks (like 7 Bank or SBI), intermediary banks in the SWIFT network may deduct 2,000 to 4,000 JPY from the principal amount before it reaches China.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Avoid allowing the receiving bank to convert the currency. Always choose to send in JPY and have the conversion handled by the provider (like Wise or Panda Remit) to lock in the rate.

FAQs: Sending Money from Japan to China

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

Yes, provided you have completed the necessary identity verification (KYC) and My Number submission. Panda Remit employs enterprise-level encryption and partners with regulated entities to handle large sums securely.

How do I send money from Japan to Alipay in 2026?

To send to Alipay, choose a provider like Panda Remit, Wise, or Remitly that supports mobile wallet payouts. You will need the recipient's Alipay ID (usually their phone number) and their full legal name in Chinese characters.

What are the tax implications for freelance income transfers to China?

Transferring already-taxed income from Japan to China generally does not trigger a new tax in China, but the recipient must declare the income source if asked by their bank. In Japan, you must retain proof of the transfer for your own tax deductions or audits.

Does Western Union require a My Number Card in Japan?

Yes. All financial institutions and money transfer services operating in Japan, including Western Union, are legally required to verify the sender's My Number for international transactions.

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. It is recommended to check their live calculators simultaneously before booking a transfer.