Tipping in China Etiquette: Who & Where to Tip (2024)

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It’s not a local practise to tip in China. Unlike in many Western countries where tipping waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff is so common it’s almost automatic, in China tipping can be considered rude. Tips may be turned down or cause embarrassment if they’re offered.

That said, there are still occasions when tipping may be appropriate. As a traveler visiting China you’re likely to run into a few of these situations - so doing some advance research is a smart way to avoid cultural missteps. Read on for more about when to tip in China.

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Tipping in bars and restaurants is not expected in China, unlike in most countries in Europe and in the United States. The general rule is the service should be exceptional at all times, and with no expectation of extra pay. Tipping in China can be considered rude and frowned upon.

Unless you notice a tip jar, or you visit a venue that is clearly adhering to the Western standards - don’t tip. Thanking your server politely when you leave is all that’s expected.

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It is not customary to tip in hotels in China. Much like in restaurants in China, you’ll find that hotel staff work with an unspoken rule of providing excellent service at no extra charge.

Unless you’re staying in a traditional Chinese style hotel, where hospitality and room-service is taken to another level you can refrain from tipping.

If you decide to tip, remember to do so gracefully to avoid any embarrassment. Prepare a clean envelope with Chinese yuans banknotes and leave it for the hotel staff at the front desk when checking out.

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Taxi drivers in China won’t expect you to tip them, even when they help you with your luggage. As tipping taxi drivers in China is not customary, trying to pay more than your agreed fare may cause confusion and embarrassment.

Don’t forget - if you’re using a regular taxi rather than a ride-hailing service like Uber, you’ll need to agree on the fare before your journey.

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Time for a massage to soothe those weary muscles? Although in many places around the world it is appropriate to leave a small tip to your therapist, in China there will be no such expectation.

Instead, be polite and respectful to the staff, and thank them at the end of the session. This acknowledgement will be appreciated more than a few Chinese yuans.

Because tour guides and interpreters in China work predominantly with foreign customers, tipping customs here may vary from the local norm. It’s now much more common for visitors to pay tips to tour guides to thank them for an exceptional experience. Your guide will understand it’s your own preference to tip, and won’t consider it a rude gesture.

Feel free to approach your tour guide at the end of the tour to reward them with a tip that feels right to you.

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Tips for tipping in China

Tipping in China FAQ