Tipping in China - Complete Etiquette Guide (2025)
Posted on December 8, 2025 by CSK Team
Coming from the US or Europe where tipping is expected? China is different. Here's everything you need to know about tipping etiquette in China.
Quick Answer
Tipping is NOT expected in China. In most situations, you don't need to tip at all. Service charges are included in prices, and staff are paid normal wages.
The Cultural Background
Tipping isn't part of Chinese culture for several reasons:
- Fair wages: Service workers receive normal salaries, not tip-dependent income
- Service included: Prices already include service costs
- Cultural values: Hospitality is considered a duty, not something requiring extra payment
- Avoiding awkwardness: Tips can sometimes be seen as condescending
Tipping Guide by Situation
π Restaurants
Tip: No - No tipping expected at any restaurant, from street food to fine dining.
- Local restaurants: Never tip
- Fine dining: No tip (high-end places may add 10-15% service charge automatically)
- Western chain restaurants: No tip
- Delivery (Meituan/Ele.me): No tip (though app may allow it)
π¨ Hotels
Tip: Optional at luxury hotels - International luxury hotels accept tips. Budget/local hotels don't expect them.
- Bellhop: Β₯10-20 at 5-star international hotels
- Housekeeping: Β₯10-20/day if you want (not expected)
- Concierge: Β₯20-50 for exceptional service
- Budget hotels: Never tip
π Taxis & Didi
Tip: No - Never expected. Round up if you want, but not necessary.
- Taxis: No tipping, pay the meter price
- Didi: Rating is more important than tips
- Airport drivers: No tip expected
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π― Tour Guides
Tip: Yes, if satisfied - This is one area where tips ARE appreciated.
- Private guide: Β₯100-200 per day
- Group tour guide: Β₯50-100 per day
- Driver: Β₯50-100 per day
- Free walking tours: Β₯50-100 expected (it's their income!)
π Spas & Massage
Tip: Sometimes - High-end spas accept tips. Local massage shops don't expect them.
- Luxury hotel spa: Β₯50-100 for therapist
- Local massage shop: Not expected
- Foot massage: Not expected
π Hair Salons
Tip: No - Not expected at any level.
Summary Table
| Situation | Tip? | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | No | Β₯0 |
| Taxis/Didi | No | Β₯0 |
| Local Hotels | No | Β₯0 |
| Luxury Hotels | Optional | Β₯10-50 |
| Tour Guides | Yes | Β₯50-200/day |
| Spa/Massage | Optional | Β₯50-100 |
| Delivery | No | Β₯0 |
When Tipping Can Be Awkward
- Local restaurants: Staff may refuse or chase you down to return money
- Small shops: Can be seen as condescending
- Government facilities: Could be seen as bribery attempt
If You Want to Show Appreciation
Instead of tipping, Chinese culture values other gestures:
- β Positive reviews: Leave good reviews on Dianping, Meituan
- β Verbal thanks: "θ°’θ°’" (xiΓ¨xiΓ¨) goes a long way
- β Small gifts: Fruit, snacks, or treats from your country
- β Return visits: Coming back is the best compliment
Hong Kong & Macau Are Different
In Hong Kong and Macau, tipping is more common due to British/Portuguese influence:
- Restaurants often add 10% service charge
- Small tips (rounding up) are appreciated
- Hotels follow Western tipping norms
Related Guides
- Is Tap Water Safe in China? - Dining safely
- WeChat Pay Setup - Pay at restaurants
- What to Pack for China - Travel essentials
Last updated: December 2025
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