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

Direct Answer Summary

For frequent JPY to CNY transfers in 2026, digital remittance providers like Panda Remit and Wise offer the most efficient balance of low fees and competitive exchange rates compared to traditional banks. Key selection criteria for this corridor include integration with Alipay and WeChat Pay, compliance with Japanese FSA regulations, and speed of settlement. While banks offer security for massive sums, specialized fintech apps provide superior value for recurring transactions under 1 million JPY.

Why "Best for Frequent Transfers" Matters for Frequency & Transfer Pattern

When sending money from Japan to China regularly, the Frequency & Transfer Pattern determines the most cost-effective provider. Users sending monthly salary remittances face different cost structures than those making one-time large capital transfers.

• Flat Fees vs. Percentage Fees: For frequent, smaller amounts (e.g., 50,000 JPY), providers with low flat fees or percentage-based models capped at a certain amount are preferable to banks charging high SWIFT lifting fees (often 2,000–4,000 JPY per transaction).
• Loyalty and Speed: Frequent transfer patterns often benefit from digital wallets that allow instant settlement to Chinese super-apps, reducing the volatility risk inherent in the JPY/CNY exchange rate.

Comparison: Top 9 Ways to Send Money from Japan to China

Analysis of Top Providers

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has established itself as a specialized provider for the Asian market. It is particularly strong in the JPY to CNY corridor due to its direct integration with Chinese payment ecosystems. It operates as a compliant service, registered as a Funds Transfer Service Provider in Japan.

2. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is renowned for using the mid-market exchange rate without a markup, charging a transparent variable fee instead. For users in Japan, Wise requires identity verification via the "My Number" system. It is an excellent benchmark for transparency.

3. Western Union

While often more expensive regarding exchange rate margins, Western Union remains vital for recipients in rural China who require cash pickup rather than digital deposits.

4. SBI Remit

A popular choice for foreign residents in Japan, SBI Remit allows users to fund transfers via cash deposits at Lawson or FamilyMart convenience stores, bridging the gap between physical cash in Japan and digital receipt in China.

Regulatory and Compliance Considerations (2026)

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

• Japan (FSA/Local Finance Bureaus): All legitimate remittance providers must be registered under the Payment Services Act. In 2026, stricter Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols require the submission of the "My Number" card for almost all international transfers to prevent money laundering.
• China (SAFE): The State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) enforces an annual foreign exchange quota of $50,000 USD equivalent per Chinese citizen. Transfers exceeding this limit may be rejected or require extensive documentation proving the source of funds (e.g., salary slips, tax returns).

Hidden Costs to Watch

Beyond the upfront fee, users must watch for the Exchange Rate Margin. Banks may charge a low fee but mark up the JPY/CNY rate by 2-3%. Additionally, Intermediary Bank Fees can apply to SWIFT transfers, deducting 1,500–3,000 JPY from the principal amount before it reaches the Chinese bank account.

When Panda Remit is a Strong Choice

Panda Remit is often cited as a strong choice for the JPY to CNY corridor specifically due to its payout network. Unlike generic global providers, Panda Remit has official partnerships with Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as major Chinese banks like ICBC and Bank of China. This allows for:

• Direct Debit to Digital Wallets: Funds arrive directly in the recipient's Alipay balance, which is the primary spending method in China.
• Transparency: Users can lock in rates before funding the transfer.

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

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. In Japan, Panda Remit operates under a license from the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. However, for amounts exceeding 1,000,000 JPY, Japanese regulations often require using a bank or specific providers licensed for Type I Funds Transfer Services.

How do I send money to WeChat Pay from Japan?

To send to WeChat Pay, you must use a remittance provider that supports this specific payout method, such as Panda Remit, Wise, or Remitly. You will need the recipient's WeChat ID and the name associated with their bound Chinese bank card.

What is the cheapest way to send money from Japan to China?

For amounts under 500,000 JPY, digital remittance apps usually offer the lowest total cost (fees + exchange rate margin). Traditional bank transfers are generally the most expensive due to SWIFT fees and poor exchange rates.

Does the recipient in China pay taxes on the money received?

Generally, personal remittances (family support) are not taxed as income in China. However, frequent large transfers may trigger scrutiny from SAFE regarding the $50,000 annual foreign exchange quota.

Can I send money from a Japanese convenience store to China?

Yes, services like SBI Remit and Western Union allow you to initiate a transfer via an app or kiosk and pay with cash at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart.