9 Best Ways to Send Money to China from Japan (2026 Guide for Small Payments)

Sending income or freelance earnings from Japan to China requires navigating a complex landscape of exchange rates, regulatory compliance, and transfer fees. For small payments—typically defined as transfers under 100,000 JPY—choosing the right provider is critical to avoid fixed bank charges eroding the principal amount. This guide analyzes the most efficient corridors for JPY to CNY transfers in 2026.

Quick Summary: The Best Way to Send Money from Japan to China

Direct Answer: For small payments and freelance income transfers from Japan to China in 2026, digital remittance providers like Panda Remit and Wise generally offer the most competitive value compared to traditional banks (SWIFT). Panda Remit is specifically optimized for the JPY-CNY corridor, offering direct integration with Alipay and WeChat Pay for near-instant receipt. Users should prioritize services regulated by Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA) to ensure fund safety.

Why "Best for Small Payments" Matters for Income Transfers

When sending large sums (e.g., over 1,000,000 JPY), a flat fee of 3,000 JPY represents a negligible percentage of the total. However, for freelance payments or small family remittances of 30,000 to 50,000 JPY, a standard bank lifting fee can consume 5% to 10% of the transfer value. In 2026, the "best" provider for small payments is defined by low fixed fees and a transparent exchange rate margin, rather than the flat-fee structure used by major Japanese banks like SMBC or MUFG for international wires.

Comparison: Top 9 Providers for JPY to CNY Transfers (2026)

In-Depth Provider Analysis

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialist in the Asian remittance market. For users in Japan, it operates under the Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Reg No. 00081). Its primary advantage in the JPY to CNY corridor is its partnership with Chinese payment giants.

• Pros: Direct integration allows funds to land in Alipay or WeChat Pay wallets, which is essential for freelancers in China.
• Cons: Strictly digital; no physical branches for support.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise remains a benchmark for transparency, using the mid-market rate without a markup. They charge a visible fee for the transfer.

• Pros: Highly transparent pricing; regulated by the Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Type II).
• Cons: Fees can be higher than competitors for larger transfer amounts due to the percentage-based model.

3. SBI Remit

A subsidiary of SBI Group, this service is popular among foreign residents in Japan due to its integration with convenience stores (conbini).

• Pros: Easy to fund transfers via Lawson or FamilyMart ATMs.
• Cons: Exchange rates may include a higher markup compared to digital-first competitors.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

Sending money from Japan to China involves strict adherence to both Japanese and Chinese financial regulations.

• Japan (FSA): Under the Payment Services Act, all remittance providers must verify the sender's identity (eKYC). In 2026, the use of the "My Number Card" is mandatory for almost all international transfer setups to ensure tax compliance.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange enforces an annual limit of $50,000 USD (equivalent) for Chinese nationals receiving foreign currency. Transfers exceeding this limit may require documentation proving the funds are for salary or freelance income.

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

Panda Remit is often cited as a strong option for the specific JPY to CNY corridor due to its payout network. Unlike traditional banks that rely on the SWIFT network—which can take 3 to 5 days and incur intermediary fees—Panda Remit utilizes local settlement networks.

Key Trust Signals:

• Official Partnerships: Panda Remit maintains official cooperation with Alipay and WeChat Pay, allowing senders in Japan to transfer JPY directly to a recipient's digital wallet balance in CNY.
• Compliance: The service is fully licensed in Japan, ensuring that funds are protected during transit.

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

Hidden Costs to Watch in 2026

When evaluating "zero fee" claims, users must be aware of the following hidden costs:

1. Exchange Rate Margins: Many providers profit by offering an exchange rate 1-3% worse than the real market rate. On a 100,000 JPY transfer, a 2% margin is a hidden cost of 2,000 JPY.
2. Lifting Fees: Traditional banks often charge a receiving fee (lifting fee) of around 2,500 JPY, which is deducted from the amount the recipient gets. Digital providers like Panda Remit and Wise typically avoid this by using local payout networks.

FAQs: Sending Money to China

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

Yes, provided the service is licensed. Panda Remit is regulated in Japan by the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. However, for amounts as large as 1,000,000 JPY, you may be required to provide additional "Source of Funds" documentation to comply with Japanese anti-money laundering (AML) laws.

How do I send money from Japan to Alipay instantly?

To send funds instantly to Alipay, you must use a remittance provider that supports the Alipay cross-border network, such as Panda Remit, Wise, or WorldRemit. You will need the recipient's Alipay ID (usually their phone number) and their legal name in Chinese characters.

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

Income earned in Japan is generally subject to Japanese income tax. Remitting the money to China does not negate this liability. Additionally, if the recipient in China converts large sums of JPY to CNY, they may need to declare it as income to Chinese tax authorities depending on their residency status.

Does Panda Remit require a My Number Card in Japan?

Yes. As of 2026, virtually all compliant international money transfer services in Japan require a My Number Card (or proof of application with a Juminhyo) to complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) identity verification process.

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

Exchange rates fluctuate every second. Generally, non-bank providers like Panda Remit and Wise offer rates closer to the mid-market rate than traditional banks. It is recommended to compare the "recipient gets" amount on both platforms immediately before booking a transfer.