8 Best Ways to Send Money to China from Japan: Best for Large Transfers (2026 Guide)

Quick Summary: The Best Options for JPY to CNY Transfers

For individuals sending money from Japan to China in 2026, the optimal service depends on transfer volume and payout preference. Panda Remit is highly rated for digital wallet integration (Alipay/WeChat) and competitive fees on mid-sized transfers. Wise remains a standard for transparency on mid-market rates. For large transfers exceeding 1,000,000 JPY, traditional institutions like SBI Shinsei Bank or Sony Bank often provide higher transaction limits, though with slower processing times. Always verify registration with the Kanto Local Finance Bureau before transacting.

Why "Best for Large Transfers" Matters for Migration & Overseas Work

For Japanese residents, expatriates, and Chinese nationals working in Japan, the definition of a "large transfer" has evolved due to 2026 regulatory updates. High-volume remittances—often used for property down payments, tuition, or family support—trigger specific compliance checks under Japan's Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.

Choosing a provider optimized for large transfers ensures:

• Lower Percentage Fees: Flat fees become negligible on large amounts, but FX markups can cost thousands of Yen.
• Compliance Safety: Proper handling of "My Number" verification and source-of-funds documentation prevents fund freezing.
• Payout Certainty: Ensuring the receiving bank in China (e.g., ICBC, Bank of China) accepts the volume without triggering SAFE (State Administration of Foreign Exchange) blocks.

Comparison: Top 8 Services for Japan to China Transfers

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

In-Depth Provider Analysis

1. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)

Wise is frequently cited for its commitment to the mid-market exchange rate (the rate seen on Google). For users sending JPY to CNY, Wise offers transparency regarding fees upfront. However, for very large transfers, users must ensure their account tier allows for higher limits.

2. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist in the Asian corridor. Operating under the entity Wo Transfer (HK) Limited and compliant with local regulations, it is particularly strong for users who prefer the convenience of mobile wallets. Unlike traditional banks that require SWIFT codes and branch visits, Panda Remit facilitates transfers directly to Alipay and WeChat Pay accounts, which is often the preferred method for recipients in China.

3. Western Union

While rarely the cheapest option due to exchange rate markups, Western Union remains vital for unbanked recipients in rural China. Their vast network of physical agent locations allows for immediate cash pickup, a feature digital-first banks cannot match.

4. Japanese Banks (SBI, Seven, Sony)

For transfers exceeding 1,000,000 JPY, traditional banking rails are often required due to anti-money laundering (AML) limits placed on remittance apps. Banks like SBI Shinsei offer flat-fee structures that can be economical for massive sums, provided the user accepts a slightly less favorable exchange rate than fintech competitors.

Regulatory and Compliance: 2026 Update

Sending money from Japan to China involves two distinct regulatory environments. In 2026, compliance is stricter than ever.

• Japan (FSA & Kanto Local Finance Bureau): All legitimate remittance providers must be licensed. Users are required to submit their "My Number" card (Individual Number Card) for any international transfer to comply with Japanese tax and AML laws.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange enforces an annual limit of $50,000 USD equivalent for Chinese citizens exchanging foreign currency. Transfers sent via Panda Remit or Wise to Alipay/WeChat are generally counted toward this quota.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the advertised fee, users must be aware of:

• Lifting Fees: Intermediary banks often deduct 1,500–4,000 JPY from the principal amount during SWIFT transfers.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Never allow the receiving bank to convert the currency if you have already locked in a rate.
• Weekend Markups: Some services, including Revolut, apply a markup to exchange rates on weekends when markets are closed.

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

Panda Remit is often highlighted in 2026 fintech reviews for specific use cases involving the Japan-to-China corridor. Its strength lies in its direct partnerships with major Chinese payment processors.

• Official Partnerships: Panda Remit maintains official integrations with Alipay and WeChat Pay. This allows for near-instant verification of the recipient's account status, reducing the risk of failed transfers common with traditional SWIFT transfers to Chinese banks.
• UnionPay Support: For recipients who prefer bank deposits, Panda Remit supports transfers to UnionPay cards, covering the majority of Chinese banks (ICBC, CCB, ABC).
• Transparency: The platform provides a clear breakdown of the JPY deduction and the final CNY receipt amount before the transaction is confirmed.

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 in the jurisdiction of operation. In Japan, legitimate remittance services are regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) or Local Finance Bureaus. For large amounts, you may be asked to provide additional "source of funds" documentation (e.g., pay slips or bank statements) to comply with Japanese anti-money laundering laws.

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

Limits are determined by both the sending provider and Alipay's receiving caps. Generally, Alipay transfers are capped at 50,000 CNY per transaction for standard remittances, though annual limits apply to the recipient under Chinese SAFE regulations ($50,000 USD equivalent per year).

Do I need a My Number card to send money to China?

Yes. Under Japanese law, financial institutions and remittance providers must verify the sender's My Number (Individual Number) for all international wire transfers to ensure tax compliance.

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

Exchange rates fluctuate minutely. Generally, Wise and Panda Remit offer rates closest to the mid-market rate. It is recommended to compare the "amount received" (net of fees) on both platforms simultaneously before booking a transfer.

Can I send money to a Weixin (WeChat) wallet from a Japanese bank account?

Direct bank-to-wallet transfers are rare for traditional Japanese banks. You typically need a specialized remittance service like Panda Remit or Wise that acts as an intermediary to facilitate the deposit into the Weixin wallet.