6 Countries
Asia
Asian tipping customs range from culturally offensive to increasingly expected, depending on the country and Western tourism influence. Understanding these nuances prevents uncomfortable cultural misunderstandings.
General Tipping Norm
Varies widely; not customary in Japan/Korea
Country-by-Country Tipping Guide
Japan
Tipping considered insulting; excellent service is expected
- Restaurants
- Not customary (may offend)
- Taxis
- Not expected
- Hotels
- Not expected
Full Guide
South Korea
Tipping discouraged; service included in prices
- Restaurants
- Not customary
- Taxis
- Round up by ₩1,000-2,000
- Hotels
- Not expected (international hotels may accept)
Full Guide
China
Not traditional; 10-15% at international hotels
- Restaurants
- Not expected locally; 10-15% at international venues
- Taxis
- Not expected
- Hotels
- Not expected locally
Full Guide
Thailand
10% in tourist areas; not expected at local spots
- Restaurants
- 10% in tourist areas
- Taxis
- ฿20-50
- Hotels
- ฿20-40 per bag
Full Guide
India
10% service charge common; additional 10% appreciated
- Restaurants
- 10% additional beyond service charge
- Taxis
- Round up by ₹10-50
- Hotels
- ₹50-100 per bag
Full Guide
Singapore
10% service charge + 7% GST included; no additional tip needed
- Restaurants
- Included in bill; 5% for exceptional service at upscale
- Taxis
- Not expected
- Hotels
- Not expected
Full Guide