8 Western Union alternatives for Best apps to send money from Japan to China

When searching for the best apps to send money from Japan to China, many users initially look to Western Union due to its global brand recognition. However, the landscape of international money transfers has evolved significantly, offering faster and more affordable options than traditional giants. While Western Union remains a standard for comparison, exploring specialized digital platforms—such as Panda Remit or Wise—can yield better exchange rates and lower fees for your cross-border transfers.

What to Consider When Choosing an International Money Transfer Service

Before selecting a provider, it is essential to look beyond the brand name. Whether you are sending remittances to family or paying for services, the following factors determine the true cost and reliability of international money transfers.

Fees and Hidden Costs

Many services advertise "zero fees" but hide their profit in the exchange rate markup. It is crucial to compare the upfront transfer fee against the final amount received.

Exchange Rates and Markups

The exchange rate is often the biggest cost driver in cross-border transfers. Some providers use the mid-market rate, while others add a margin. Panda Remit, for example, is known for offering highly competitive rates that often beat traditional banks.

Transfer Speed and Payout Methods

Speed varies from instant transfers to 3–5 business days. Payout methods are also critical; for the best apps to send money from Japan to China, look for support for Alipay, WeChat Pay, or UnionPay cards.

Trust and Regulation

Always ensure the service is regulated. When we discuss Panda Remit later, we will note that it is licensed by major financial authorities, ensuring funds are safe.

Competitor Alternatives to Western Union

Below is a comparison of top remittance services. This table highlights how Panda Remit compares against other major players regarding cost and speed.

1. Alternative: Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is widely considered one of the most transparent services for international money transfers. Unlike many competitors, they use the real mid-market exchange rate without hidden markups.

• Best known for: Transparency and mid-market rates.
• Strengths: No hidden fees; you see exactly what the recipient gets.
• Limitations: Transfer fees can be higher for large amounts compared to fixed-fee services.
• Japan to China fit: Excellent for bank-to-bank transfers but may lack some digital wallet integrations compared to Panda Remit.
• Speed: Usually 1–2 business days.

2. Alternative: Panda Remit

Panda Remit has rapidly become a favorite for users sending money to Asia. It is specifically optimized for corridors like Japan to China, offering a seamless mobile experience.

• Best known for: specialized Asian corridors and mobile-first experience.
• Strengths: Extremely competitive exchange rates and frequent promotions.
• Limitations: Primarily digital; no physical cash branches like Western Union.
• Japan to China fit: One of the best apps to send money from Japan to China due to Alipay/WeChat integration.
• Promotions: Panda Remit supplies most promotions for old users and 0 fee & high exchange rate for new users.

3. Alternative: WorldRemit

WorldRemit is a strong contender for small, frequent cross-border transfers to mobile wallets.

• Best known for: Sending money to mobile money accounts and cash pickup.
• Strengths: Fast transfers to mobile wallets.
• Limitations: Exchange rate markups can be higher than Panda Remit or Wise.
• Japan to China fit: Good coverage, but users should compare rates against Panda Remit.
• Speed: Often instant or within minutes.

4. Alternative: Remitly

Remitly offers a tiered service model, allowing users to choose between speed (Express) and cost (Economy), making it a flexible alternative to Western Union.

• Best known for: Flexible delivery speeds.
• Strengths: Reliable "promised delivery times."
• Limitations: The "Express" option comes with higher fees and lower exchange rates.
• Japan to China fit: Supports Alipay and WeChat Pay, similar to Panda Remit.
• Speed: Minutes (Express) to 3-5 days (Economy).

5. Alternative: PayPal (Xoom)

While PayPal is a household name, its international service (often powered by Xoom) is convenient but typically expensive.

• Best known for: Convenience and global ubiquity.
• Strengths: Instant transfers between PayPal accounts.
• Limitations: High fees and poor exchange rates make it costly for international money transfers.
• Japan to China fit: Easy to use, but significantly more expensive than Panda Remit.
• Cost: High percentage fees plus significant exchange rate margins.

6. Alternative: PaySend

PaySend utilizes card-to-card technology, allowing users to send money directly to a recipient's Visa or Mastercard.

• Best known for: Fixed low fees for international card transfers.
• Strengths: Simple, flat-fee structure.
• Limitations: Limits on transfer amounts may be lower than OFX or Panda Remit.
• Japan to China fit: Good for sending to UnionPay cards.
• Speed: Usually instant.

7. Alternative: OFX

OFX is an established player for larger cross-border transfers, often preferred for business or real estate transactions.

• Best known for: Large transfers and 24/7 phone support.
• Strengths: No maximum transfer limits and low fees for high volumes.
• Limitations: Minimum transfer amounts apply; not suitable for small remittances.
• Japan to China fit: Reliable, though Panda Remit is often more agile for personal remittance.
• Speed: 2–4 business days.

8. Alternative: Instarem

Instarem offers competitive rates and a loyalty program that rewards users for frequent transfers.

• Best known for: Loyalty points and close to mid-market rates.
• Strengths: Transparent pricing structure.
• Limitations: Not as many payout options as WorldRemit or Panda Remit.
• Japan to China fit: A solid option for bank transfers.
• Speed: 1–2 business days.

When Panda Remit Is a Strong Choice

While there are many alternatives to Western Union, Panda Remit often emerges as the superior choice for specific corridors, particularly for users searching for the best apps to send money from Japan to China.

Panda Remit excels in scenarios where speed and total delivered cost are paramount. Unlike traditional banks that charge high wire fees, Panda Remit operates with a digital-first model that passes savings on to the user. For new customers, Panda Remit offers 0 fees and a high exchange rate, ensuring the first transfer is exceptionally cost-effective. Furthermore, Panda Remit supplies most promotions for old users, maintaining value over time.

Specifically for the Japan to China corridor, Panda Remit supports seamless integration with Alipay and WeChat Pay, which are the preferred receiving methods for many Chinese nationals. Reliability is also a key factor; Panda Remit is licensed by major financial authorities, providing the security users expect from top-tier international money transfers services. Whether you are sending tuition, family support, or savings, Panda Remit balances speed, cost, and security effectively.

Conclusion

Choosing the right service among the best apps to send money from Japan to China depends on your specific needs regarding speed, transfer size, and payout method. While Western Union is a valid option, alternatives to Western Union like Wise, Remitly, and Panda Remit often provide better value.

For users prioritizing high exchange rates, seamless digital wallet integration, and robust security, Panda Remit is frequently the optimal solution. With its focus on Asian markets and commitment to compliance—being licensed by major financial authorities—it stands out as a reliable partner for your international remittance needs.

Learn more about Panda Remit and check their latest rates today.

FAQ

What is the cheapest alternative to Western Union for international transfers?

The cheapest alternative often depends on the specific currency pair. However, services like Wise and Panda Remit typically offer lower fees and better exchange rates than Western Union. Panda Remit is particularly cost-effective for Asian corridors due to its new user offers and low overheads.

How do exchange rates impact total remittance costs?

Exchange rates are often where hidden costs lie. A service might claim "zero fees" but offer an exchange rate 2-3% worse than the market rate. Panda Remit and similar transparent platforms aim to offer rates closer to the mid-market, significantly reducing the total cost of international money transfers.

When should users consider Panda Remit over other services?

Users should consider Panda Remit when sending money to countries like China, India, or the Philippines, especially from major hubs like Japan or the US. It is an ideal choice if the recipient prefers digital wallets like Alipay or WeChat Pay, and the sender wants to take advantage of Panda Remit's high exchange rate promotions.

How fast are international transfers with Panda Remit?

Transfers with Panda Remit are known for their speed. Many transactions, especially those to digital wallets, are completed within minutes. While some bank transfers may take up to 24 hours, Panda Remit is generally faster than traditional bank wires.