The ultimate guide to tipping in Asia

05.08.2024 - 21:51 / lonelyplanet.com

Aug 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Tipping is an elusive custom all over the world, and Asia is no exception. A common mistake tourists make is tipping in the first place. It's not customary to tip in many Asian countries, and in some instances, it's even considered rude.

Don't stress – it's not as complex as it seems. Just follow this guide to tipping across Asia.

China , Myanmar , Singapore and Taiwan do not have a strong tipping culture, so leaving extra money at the end of the meal or in a bar is largely deemed unnecessary. However, influenced by the influx of overseas tourists into larger cities, some chic new restaurants in China are starting to accept small tips when offered. 

Hospitality workers in much of Southeast Asia, including Cambodia , Thailand , Vietnam , Indonesia and Malaysia , are becoming more and more accustomed to receiving tips, though tipping culture in non-touristy areas is not customary, other than perhaps rounding up the bill. For tourist spots, it's very much formed by international visitors. Because of Southeast Asia's proximity to Australia and China (non-tipping cultures), locals know not to expect tips from these groups of visitors, though Americans and Europeans tend to tip, so it's very hit or miss. 

In India , tipping is customary. Aim to tip 10-15% at bars, cafes and restaurants regardless of whether a service charge is included (since this doesn't always benefit servers ), especially in smaller establishments.

In the Maldives and Bhutan, tipping is not customary but appreciated. For both countries, aim for a 10-15% tip, but note that a 10% service charge applies in both regions when you dine out, and in that case, an additional tip is not expected.

In most of Central Asia, tipping is not expected unless you're staying or dining in ritzier places (where it is sometimes customary to add 5% to the 10% service charge). 

Other Asian countries, including Japan and Nepal , believe that tipping is only for exceptionally good service – being treated with hospitality and warmth is the norm and shouldn't be "rewarded." In Japan, some servers might even politely refuse a tip if you leave one.

China's no-tipping culture prevails when it comes to hotels, but if you're living the high life in a particularly luxurious establishment, feel free to tip the porter around 5 yuan per bag. You may also find that in high-end hotels, a 10% service charge will be added to the overall bill. Japanese hotels also do not expect their staff to be tipped, particularly in a traditional ryokan (inn). If you feel particularly inclined, leave around 5000 yen (for a short stay) in an envelope, but it may be politely refused if you hand it over in person. 

India's hotel staff are notoriously poorly