Tipping in Japan

Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude in most settings.

Tipping mandatory

Tipping is not expected and may cause confusion.

No tip

Round up for convenience only; not expected.

No tip

Service charge is included. A small gift is appreciated at ryokans.

No tip

Small tips in an envelope are acceptable for private guides.

0-10%

Not expected; a small otoshi charge is common instead.

No tip

General Tipping Guidelines

When visiting Japan, tipping customs may differ from what you're used to. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

✓Check if a service charge is already included on your bill before tipping extra.
✓When in doubt, observe what locals do or ask your hotel concierge for advice.
✓Keep small bills and coins in the local currency handy for tipping situations.
✓For exceptional service, a small tip is almost universally appreciated even in non-tipping cultures.
✓Tip in local currency whenever possible — foreign coins and small bills are hard for staff to exchange.