A Guide to Tipping Culture in China

In China, tipping is not a traditional practice. Unlike in Europe and America, the income of service industry workers does not usually depend on tips. Below are specific explanations and recommendations for different scenarios:

I. Tipping Habits in Common Service Situations

1. Regular Restaurants
2. No Tip Required: Chinese restaurant bills often already include a service charge (some high-end restaurants will clearly indicate this). Servers do not generally expect tips.

3. Exceptional Cases: If you are particularly satisfied with the service, you can verbally thank them or transfer additional money via electronic payment (such as WeChat Pay/Alipay) (e.g., 5-20 RMB), but this is very uncommon.

4. Hotel Services

5. Generally No Tip Needed: Staff at star-rated hotels, such as bellhops or housekeepers, typically do not accept tips, but if they provide extra help (like carrying luggage to your room, responding quickly to requests), you may consider giving 10-20 RMB in cash as a token of appreciation.

6. High-End Hotels Exception: Some international chain hotels may be more accustomed to tipping culture, but it is not mandatory.

7. Taxis/Ride-hailing Services

8. No Tip Required: Drivers charge according to the meter and no additional payment is necessary. If the driver helps carry your luggage, you can verbally thank them or tip through the platform (such as Didi Chuxing’s "Gratitude Fee" feature).

9. Tour Guides and Drivers

10. Domestic Tour Groups: Tips are generally not mandatory. If the guide provides professional service and well-arranged itineraries, you can voluntarily give a tip (suggested 50-100 RMB per day per person, adjusted based on group size).
11. Private Customized Tours/International Tours: Tipping is more common. It is recommended to confirm in advance with the travel agency whether there are any customary practices.

II. Alternative Ways to Express Gratitude

1. Online Reviews: The Chinese service industry places great importance on online reviews. Giving positive feedback through platforms like Dazhong Dianping, Meituan, or Ctrip can be more helpful to practitioners.
2. Verbal Thanks: A sincere verbal thank-you (such as "thank you" or "you've worked hard") is the most direct way to express gratitude.
3. Small Gifts: Gifting small souvenirs (such as tea or bookmarks) is sometimes more appreciated than cash.

III. Precautions

1. Avoid Being Solicited for Tips: If you are asked for a tip at tourist attractions, restaurants, etc., it might involve non-compliant behavior. It is recommended to report this through the platform or management department.
2. Convenience of Electronic Payments: WeChat/Alipay is widely used in China. If you need to give a tip, it is suggested to keep a small amount of cash (10-50 RMB denominations) handy or bind mobile payments in advance.
3. Respect Cultural Differences: If service personnel refuse to accept tips, do not insist, to avoid awkward situations.

IV. Summary Recommendations

• Not Necessary, But Flexible Handling: Tipping is not an obligation and completely depends on personal preference and quality of service.
• Confirm in Advance: If you participate in high-end custom tours or international services, you can consult the travel agency in advance about whether there are tipping customs.
• Focus on Etiquette: Politeness and respect win over service personnel more than tips.