Tipping in China
CNYLast reviewed · Apr 2026
Tipping is not expected in mainland China. Organized tours and some upscale hotels may accept small tips, but refusals are normal.
Tipping not expectedMost common situations
Restaurant
Standard:Not expected
Bar
Standard:Not expected
Taxi
Standard:Not expected
How to tip in China
•Pay the amount shown in most situations
•If staff refuse a tip, that is normal
•Tips are more common on organized tours than in daily life
Quick tips
Tipping is uncommon in mainland China
Tour guides and drivers on organized tours are the main exception
High-end hotels may accept small cash tips
Other situations (8)
DeliveryNot expected
Hairdresser / BarberNot expected
Spa & MassageNot expected
Hotel StaffSmall cash tip
Tour guides50-100 CNY per day
Valet ParkingNot expected
Airport ServicesSmall cash tip
Car Services / UberNot expected
Next step for your trip
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Tipping questions in China
Tipping Terms Glossary
- Service charge
- A mandatory fee added to the bill by the establishment, separate from optional tips.
- Round up
- To increase the total bill amount to the nearest convenient whole number or denomination.
- Exceptional service
- Service that exceeds standard expectations, often warranting a higher tip percentage or amount.
- Cash preferred
- A preference for cash tips over card tips, often because card tips may not reach staff directly.