Tipping in China: Why You Shouldn’t Tip
Quick Answer
Tipping is not expected and not part of Chinese culture. In most situations, tipping can cause confusion or even offense.
China is firmly a no-tipping country. The concept of tipping has never been part of traditional Chinese culture, and service workers do not expect or rely on tips. Offering a tip in most settings — from restaurants to taxis to hotels — may be politely declined or cause genuine confusion.
The Chinese cultural perspective views excellent service as a professional duty, not something requiring additional payment. Attempting to tip can even imply that the worker needs financial help, which can be embarrassing. The exceptions are limited to high-end international hotels and organized tours with foreign tourists.
Restaurants: No Tip
Do not tip at restaurants in China, whether casual noodle shops, hot pot restaurants, or fine dining establishments. The price on the menu is the total price. Some upscale restaurants in major cities may add a 10–15% service charge, but this is included in the bill and is not a tip to leave on top.
Leaving money on the table will likely result in staff chasing you down to return it. This applies to all types of dining, from street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Hotels
At local Chinese hotels, tipping is not practiced. At international chain hotels (Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, etc.) in Shanghai, Beijing, and other major cities, staff may accept tips gracefully from foreign guests. If you choose to tip, ¥10–20 per bag for bellhops (∼$1.50–3 USD) or ¥10–20 per night for housekeeping is sufficient.
Taxis: No Tip
Do not tip taxi drivers. The metered fare is the full price. For ride-hailing services like Didi (China’s dominant ride app), there is no tipping function in the app. Simply pay the fare and exit.
Tour Guides: The Exception
Organized tour guides, especially those working with international tourists, are the main exception. For group tours, ¥50–100 per day per person (∼$7–14 USD) is customary. For private guides, ¥100–200 per day. Tour bus drivers also appreciate ¥20–50 per day.
If you’re on an organized tour, your travel agency may provide guidance on tipping expectations.
Bars and Nightlife
No tipping at bars, clubs, or KTV (karaoke). Service charges may be included at upscale venues, but these are part of the bill. Check the receipt if unsure.
Spas and Personal Services
At spa and massage establishments, tipping is not expected. If you’re at a high-end spa catering to international clientele, a small tip may be accepted but is not necessary.
Do's and Don'ts
Do
- Say 'Xièxie' (谢谢, thank you) to show appreciation.
- Pay the exact price on the bill without adding extra.
- Tip tour guides on organized tours — this is the accepted exception.
- Accept that no tipping is the cultural standard, not a lack of generosity.
- Use WeChat Pay or Alipay — cash is becoming rare in urban China.
Don't
- Leave money on the table at restaurants — it will be returned to you.
- Tip taxi drivers or ride-hailing drivers.
- Insist on tipping when someone declines.
- Assume the lack of tipping means lower service quality.
- Tip at local hotels, shops, or casual restaurants.
Useful Phrases
Practical Tips
- China is essentially cashless in urban areas. WeChat Pay and Alipay are used for almost everything.
- International tourists can now link foreign credit cards to WeChat Pay and Alipay.
- If you do want to tip a tour guide, hand the money in an envelope — never bare cash.
- Hong Kong and Macau have different tipping customs (10% at restaurants is common). This guide covers mainland China.
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