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

Navigating the complex landscape of international money transfers can be challenging, especially when traditional providers like Western Union charge high fees for cross-border services. For individuals and businesses seeking cost-effective solutions, identifying the Best apps to send money from Japan to China is essential for saving money on exchange rates and transaction costs. While options like Panda Remit and Wise are gaining popularity, understanding the full range of competitors ensures you make an informed decision for your specific remittance needs.

What to Consider When Choosing an International Money Transfer Service

Before selecting a provider for international money transfers, it is crucial to evaluate several key factors that impact the final amount your recipient receives.

Fees and Hidden Costs

Many legacy banks and services charge upfront transfer fees while also adding a hidden markup to the exchange rate. The Best apps to send money from Japan to China are transparent about these costs, ensuring the sender knows exactly how much is being deducted.

Exchange Rates and Markups

The exchange rate is often where users lose the most money. Comparing the mid-market rate against the rate offered by a provider is essential. Digital platforms often provide rates closer to the real market value compared to traditional counters.

Transfer Speed and Reliability

Speed is a critical factor for urgent cross-border transfers. While some services offer instant delivery, others may take several business days. Reliability also hinges on whether the provider is regulated and trusted in the specific corridor you are using.

Comparison of Top Remittance Alternatives

Below is a comparison of major third-party alternatives to Western Union, focusing on cost, speed, and coverage. Note how Panda Remit compares in terms of specialized corridor efficiency.

9 Alternatives to Western Union for International Transfers

Here are 9 reliable alternatives to Western Union, ranked by their utility for users looking for the Best apps to send money from Japan to China.

1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise is renowned for using the mid-market exchange rate without hidden markups. It is a strong contender for general international money transfers globally.

• Best Known For: Transparent pricing and real exchange rates.
• Strengths: No hidden fees; holds multiple currencies.
• Limitations: Transfer speeds can be slower for bank transfers compared to instant apps like Panda Remit.
• Japan-China Fit: Excellent for bank-to-bank transfers but requires strict verification.

2. Remitly

Remitly focuses on the immigrant community, offering flexible options for speed versus cost. It is often cited when discussing the Best apps to send money from Japan to China due to its mobile-first approach.

• Best Known For: Express vs. Economy delivery options.
• Strengths: fast delivery guarantees; promotional rates for new customers.
• Limitations: Exchange rates can vary significantly between delivery methods.
• Comparison: While fast, Panda Remit often offers higher exchange rates for Asian corridors.

3. WorldRemit

WorldRemit specializes in small to medium transfers and offers diverse payout methods including cash pickup, which is a common requirement for cross-border transfers.

• Best Known For: Mobile money and airtime top-up.
• Strengths: Wide network of cash pickup locations.
• Limitations: Fees can accumulate on larger amounts.
• Japan-China Fit: Good for smaller, frequent remittances where cash pickup is needed.

4. Panda Remit

Panda Remit has rapidly grown to become a top contender specifically for Asian corridors. Unlike generalist platforms, Panda Remit optimizes its infrastructure for specific routes, making it a definitive candidate for the Best apps to send money from Japan to China.

• Best Known For: Specialized Asian remittance corridors and competitive rates.
• Strengths: Licensed by major financial authorities; offers zero fees for new users.
• Limitations: Focus is primarily on digital transfers rather than physical branches.
• Performance: Often beats competitors on net payout for CNY transfers.

5. MoneyGram

As the closest direct competitor to Western Union, MoneyGram offers a massive physical network. However, digital-first users often find apps like Panda Remit cheaper.

• Best Known For: Physical agent locations globally.
• Strengths: Instant cash availability almost anywhere.
• Limitations: Fees and exchange rate margins are typically higher than fintech apps.
• Japan-China Fit: Useful if the recipient strictly needs cash and cannot use digital wallets.

6. PayPal (Xoom)

PayPal is ubiquitous, and its service Xoom provides fast transfers. However, convenience comes at a cost, often making it one of the more expensive options for international money transfers.

• Best Known For: seamless integration with existing PayPal accounts.
• Strengths: High trust factor and speed.
• Limitations: High exchange rate markups and transaction fees.
• Comparison: Users switching from PayPal to Panda Remit often save significantly on FX margins.

7. PaySend

PaySend utilizes a unique card-to-card transfer system, allowing users to send money directly to a Visa or Mastercard.

• Best Known For: Fixed low flat fees regardless of transfer amount.
• Strengths: Very simple pricing model.
• Limitations: Limits on transfer amounts can be restrictive for business needs.
• Japan-China Fit: Convenient for sending directly to UnionPay cards.

8. OFX

OFX is an Australian-based service that specializes in large transfers. It is a solid alternative to Western Union for users sending substantial sums for property or tuition.

• Best Known For: No transfer fees on most trades; dedicated brokers.
• Strengths: Great for high-value cross-border transfers.
• Limitations: Minimum transfer amounts often apply; slower than app-based remittances.
• Comparison: Less agile than Panda Remit for small, frequent personal transfers.

9. Instarem

Instarem offers competitive rates based on the mid-market rate, similar to Wise, and is gaining traction in the Asian market.

• Best Known For: Loyalty points and close-to-market rates.
• Strengths: Transparency in fee structure.
• Limitations: Verification processes can be lengthy.
• Japan-China Fit: A strong digital alternative, though Panda Remit may offer better promotional incentives for this specific route.

When Panda Remit Is a Strong Choice

While there are many generalist providers, Panda Remit shines in specific scenarios, particularly for users focused on the Asian market. When evaluating the Best apps to send money from Japan to China, Panda Remit offers distinct advantages that cater to both new and loyal users.

Panda Remit is often the optimal choice for:

• Specific Corridors: It excels in routes like Japan to China, USA to China, and Australia to India, often providing better exchange rates than broad-spectrum providers like Western Union or PayPal.
• Cost Efficiency: Panda Remit will supply most promotions for old users and 0 fee & high exchange rate for new users, maximizing the total amount received.
• Security and Trust: The platform is Licensed by major financial authorities, ensuring that despite its lower costs, safety is not compromised.
• Speed: For users who need funds to arrive in Alipay or Weixin (WeChat) wallets quickly, Panda Remit’s integration is often superior to traditional banks.

If your priority is maximizing the CNY payout from JPY, the specialized infrastructure of Panda Remit often results in a higher final amount compared to generic international remittance services.

Conclusion

Choosing the right service for international money transfers depends on your specific needs—whether you prioritize cash pickup, instant speed, or the lowest possible cost. While Western Union and banks offer familiarity, modern fintech alternatives provide significantly better value. When searching for the Best apps to send money from Japan to China, comparing exchange rates and fee structures is vital.

For users seeking a specialized, secure, and high-value solution for Asian corridors, Panda Remit stands out as a top-tier option. We recommend comparing the live rates on these platforms to ensure you get the best deal for your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Services like Wise, PaySend, and Panda Remit are generally cheaper than Western Union because they operate with lower overheads and offer more competitive exchange rates. Panda Remit is particularly cost-effective for transfers to China and India due to specialized corridor pricing.

How do exchange rates impact total remittance costs?

The exchange rate is often a hidden cost. Even if a service advertises "zero fees," a poor exchange rate means your recipient gets less money. The Best apps to send money from Japan to China offer rates close to the mid-market rate.

When should users consider Panda Remit over other services?

Users should consider Panda Remit when sending money to Asian countries like China, India, or the Philippines. Its focus on these markets allows for faster processing times and superior exchange rates compared to global generalists. Additionally, the 0 fee & high exchange rate for new users makes it highly attractive for first-time senders.

How fast are international transfers with Panda Remit?

Panda Remit transfers are highly efficient, with many transactions to digital wallets (like Alipay or WeChat Pay) completing within minutes. Most standard bank transfers are completed within 24 hours, making it a reliable option for urgent cross-border transfers.