Quick Answer
Do not tip in China.
Not in high-end restaurants, not in everyday eateries, not in taxis.
If you try to tip, you are likely to confuse or embarrass staff, not reward them.
If a service requires a fee, it will already be included in the bill.
The Core Reality (This Is Non-Negotiable)
China does not have a tipping culture.
This applies to:
- Luxury hotels and fine dining
- Mid-range restaurants
- Small local eateries
- Cafes and bars
- Taxis and ride-hailing
- Delivery services
There is no expectation, hint, or subtle signal for tips.
Why Tipping Causes Problems
When you try to tip:
- Staff may refuse repeatedly
- Staff may feel pressured or uncomfortable
- Staff may worry about policy violations
- The interaction becomes awkward
Your good intention creates friction.
How Service Is Actually Paid
In China:
- Staff are paid wages, not tips
- Service is part of the listed price
- Any service charge is shown clearly on the bill
- There is no hidden expectation afterward
If you see a charge, it is official.
If you don’t, do not add one.
High-End Restaurants and Hotels (Important Clarification)
Even in:
- Michelin-listed restaurants
- Five-star hotels
- International hotel chains
You still do not tip.
If a service fee applies:
- It is printed on the bill
- It is charged automatically
- No extra action is expected from you
Do not add anything on top.
Common Situations and What to Do
At a Restaurant
- Pay the bill as shown
- Say “thank you”
- Leave
No extra money on the table.
In a Taxi or Ride-Hailing Car
- Pay the metered or app price
- Exit the car
Do not round up or add cash.
Delivery or Hotel Help
- Accept the service
- Say thanks
- Do not offer money
This is normal behavior.
What If You Really Want to Show Appreciation?
Use words, not money:
- Say “thank you”
- Smile or nod
- Leave a positive review online (if applicable)
These are understood and appreciated.
Common Mistakes Foreigners Make
- Leaving cash on the table
- Trying to “round up” taxi fares
- Forcing tips after refusal
- Assuming silence means acceptance
These actions create discomfort.
Reality Check
- Staff are not waiting for tips
- Staff are not underpaid via tipping
- Refusal is polite, not personal
- Not tipping is the correct behavior
You are not being rude—you are being appropriate.
What Locals Do Instead
- They pay the bill shown
- They do not add money
- They thank staff verbally
- They leave without ceremony
Follow this exactly.
Checklist
- Do not tip anywhere.
- Pay only what is on the bill.
- Look for service charges on the receipt.
- Show appreciation verbally, not financially.
- Ignore tipping habits from other countries.