6 Best Ways to Send Money: Japan to China (2026 Guide)

Quick Summary: Best Options for JPY to CNY Transfers

For large transfers from Japan to China in 2026, the most effective methods prioritize exchange rate stability and regulatory compliance. Top providers include Panda Remit for direct Alipay/WeChat integration, Wise for transparent mid-market rates, and SBI Remit for secure bank channels. Users must verify My Number documentation in Japan and adhere to China's SAFE annual limits.

Why "Best for Large Transfers" Matters for Income & Freelance

When sending income, freelance earnings, or business settlements from Japan to China, the definition of "best" shifts from speed to cost-efficiency and compliance. For transfers exceeding 1,000,000 JPY, a 1% difference in the exchange rate can result in a loss of 10,000 JPY. Furthermore, strict anti-money laundering (AML) regulations in Japan require clear documentation of the source of funds.

In 2026, digital remittance services have largely replaced traditional bank wires for amounts under 3 million JPY due to lower overheads and better integration with Chinese digital wallets.

Comparison: Top Providers for Japan to China Transfers

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

In-Depth Provider Analysis

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist for the Asian market. For users in Japan, it offers a fully digital experience requiring eKYC via the "My Number" card. Its primary strength lies in its partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay, allowing funds to land directly in the recipient's digital wallet, which is often preferred in China over traditional bank deposits.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a top contender for transparency. They use the mid-market rate (the one you see on Google) and charge a visible fee. For freelance income transfers where tax documentation is critical, Wise provides clear PDF receipts that separate the fee from the principal amount.

3. SBI Remit

As part of the SBI Group, this service leverages the MoneyGram network. It is highly reliable for users who prefer depositing cash at convenience stores (konbini) in Japan to initiate transfers, rather than linking a bank account online.

4. Traditional Banks (Mitsubishi UFJ, SMBC, Mizuho)

While secure, traditional Japanese banks often utilize the SWIFT network, which can incur intermediate bank fees (lifting fees) of 2,500 to 4,000 JPY per transaction, regardless of the transfer size. This makes them less economical for frequent freelance income transfers.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money from Japan to China involves navigating two distinct regulatory environments. Failure to comply can result in frozen funds.

Japan: The Payment Services Act

All legitimate remittance providers must be registered with the Kanto Local Finance Bureau or the Financial Services Agency (FSA). In 2026, strict adherence to "My Number" submission is mandatory for all international transfers to verify tax residency.

China: SAFE Regulations

The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) in China enforces an annual foreign exchange settlement limit equivalent to $50,000 USD per Chinese citizen. When sending large amounts:

• Ensure the recipient has not exceeded their annual quota.
• For transfers marked as "Salary" or "Family Support," the recipient may need to declare the funds via their banking app to release them.

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

Panda Remit is particularly optimized for the Japan-to-China corridor due to specific localization features:

• Direct Integration: Unlike generic providers, Panda Remit facilitates direct transfers to Alipay and WeChat Pay balances. This is a verifiable trust signal, as these partnerships require vetting by Chinese payment networks.
• Compliance: Panda Remit operates under the requisite financial licenses in Japan, ensuring that your JPY funding is handled according to local laws.
• Speed: By bypassing the traditional SWIFT network for these specific corridors, transfers often settle within minutes, provided the recipient's verification in China is complete.

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

Beyond the advertised exchange rate, users should be aware of:

• Lifting Fees: Charges deducted by intermediary banks during SWIFT transfers (common with traditional banks).
• Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Never allow the sending bank to convert the currency if they offer a "guaranteed rate" at the ATM; this usually includes a high markup. Always choose to be billed in JPY and let the remittance provider handle the conversion to CNY.

FAQs: Sending Money to China from Japan

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

Yes, provided the service is licensed by the Kanto Local Finance Bureau in Japan. For amounts of this size, ensure your recipient in China has the necessary bank limits to receive the funds and that you have completed enhanced due diligence (source of funds) checks if requested.

What documents do I need for freelance income transfers to China?

You will typically need your Japanese "My Number" card (or Residence Card with My Number listed) for identity verification. For large freelance transfers, providers may request invoices or contracts to prove the source of funds complies with Japanese AML laws.

Does the $50,000 annual limit apply to transfers from Japan?

Yes. The limit applies to the recipient in China converting foreign currency (JPY) into Renminbi (CNY). If you send JPY to a multi-currency account, the limit triggers only when they convert it. If you send CNY directly via a provider like Panda Remit, the amount counts toward their annual quota immediately.

How long does a bank transfer from Japan to China take in 2026?

Traditional SWIFT transfers via major Japanese banks take 2–5 business days. Modern fintech providers utilizing local payout networks (like Panda Remit or Wise) can often complete transfers to Alipay or WeChat wallets in under 30 minutes.

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

Yes, select providers like Panda Remit and Wise allow you to input the recipient's WeChat ID (linked phone number). The recipient must have a Chinese National ID linked to their WeChat Pay account to receive international remittances.