Tipping in China - 3 Questions You Want to Know the Answers To

Tipping is a common way to show your satisfaction for a service in Western countries. However,  tipping in China is different from other countries because the recipient may feel stressed and lose face by this act. At worst, they may feel inferior and hurt by your "kind" manner. In mainland China, it’s not acceptable to tip people, while in Hong Kong, Macau, and in certain situations in China it is acceptable to give tips. The following three tips can help you to avoid confusion. 

china Our guide and guests in Zhangjiajie

Is It Rude to Tip in China?

Generally speaking, yes. Tipping is not expected and can even be regarded as rude in China although more and more Chinese people have accepted Western culture. Why don’t Chinese people give tips? In Chinese culture, tipping is equal to giving a handout to someone, which is considered a disgrace and causes people to lose face. It’s said that Chinese people would rather die than live by taking charity from others. There is a famous proverb in China: "A gentleman does not eat food that’s handed out in contempt". That vividly reflects that Chinese people are very protective of their reputation and dignity.

Tipping When Traveling

Tipping when traveling is an exception to this rule in China. Tour guides and drivers appreciate your kind tips.

Tipping Your Guide

Tipping guides is a common practice when you join a tour group in China. Your guide will be glad to receive an additional reward after the tour. Use your discretion whether to leave a tip or not and what amount to give. Generally, about $15 or 100 yuan per day is acceptable for your guide. If you are very satisfied with him/her, you can give your guide a bigger tip.

Tipping Your Driver

As well as giving a tip to your guide, your driver will also expect a tip after the tour. Generally, the amount should be approximately half of the amount given to your guide. Unlike your tour driver, you don't need to tip a taxi driver. However, if the driver helps you with your heavy luggage or provides an exceptional service, you can give a tip of 10 to 20 yuan.

china The driver helps the guest put their luggage

Tipping a Waiter/Waitress in Your Hotel

In most hotels in China, giving a tip is not required. The only exception is some superior hotels. In superior hotels, 10 to 20 yuan is enough for your room attendant plus 10 yuan per item of luggage carried. Keep in mind that you are not expected to give tips in hostels or inns.

Tipping a Waiter/Waitress in a Restaurant

In China, tipping is becoming more and more common. However, you don't need to leave tips in small restaurants or give tips to street food vendors. People usually give tips of 10 to 20 yuan in large restaurants. If you are glad to have received a good service, you can leave more.

How to Show Your Respect When Tipping

More and more Chinese people have come to expect tips, although most areas are not accustomed to this rule. How can you show your respect when tipping people? Here are some useful tips to prevent you from hurting other people’s pride in China:

china Our guide explains the scenic spot to the guest
  • It is forbidden to give tips in some places. You cannot give tips in official public areas, such as airports and train stations.
  • Don't make people lose face. If you want to leave a tip, show your gratitude and thank people for providing a good service. Don’t just leave them money on the table or hand them money.
  • If possible, leave a tip when nobody is looking or put it into an envelope. Sometimes, people may expect a tip but feel embarrassed and shy if others can see a tip being given. Therefore, it’s best to tip someone when they are alone or put it into an envelope.

Related Articles

Related Tours