Tipping in Asia. Should you leave them, when and how much?

When traveling in Asia, remember that tipping is a Western culture that came to Asia relatively recently. In many regions, money left as a tip can be considered almost an insult. Today we will talk about tipping in Asia: whether to leave them, in what cases, and how much?

China

Tipping is not customary in China; locals never do it, and in some establishments, it is even prohibited. However, in hotels and restaurants (popular with tourists or serving European cuisine) in large cities like Shanghai or Beijing, no one will refuse them. In the provinces, it's best not to leave tips, as your generosity and gratitude might be misinterpreted. If you go on an excursion, it is generally customary to tip the guide and the driver who accompanied you at the end of it. The rule for tipping in China is simple: if the service you received is somehow related to tourism, tips will be accepted; if not (taxi, regular restaurant or bar), they will be returned to you.

Hong Kong

Tipping is a bit more common in Hong Kong. In restaurants, a service charge, usually 10%, will already be included in your bill. In principle, there's no need to leave an additional tip. If you take a taxi, the driver will round up your fare, meaning they will keep the small change. It is customary to tip hotel porters $2-3 per suitcase.

Japan

Tipping is also not customary in Japan. However, a guide or maid will be happy if you leave them a small tip. Note that in Japan, it is customary to give money in an envelope and before the service is rendered, not after. Do not try to leave a tip in a restaurant; it's more likely the waiter will run after you to return the "change". Service staff salaries in Japan are quite decent, and they are fully dedicated to their work, so gratitude in the form of a few dollars will most often be considered an insult.

Singapore

Tipping in Singapore is not just uncommon, it's even prohibited. In some places, you might see signs forbidding tips. Many restaurants include a 10% service charge in the bill, so nothing extra needs to be left.

South Korea

Tipping is also not customary here and can be considered an insult. Some hotels and restaurants popular with tourists add a 10% service charge to the bill, but nothing extra needs to be left.

Indonesia

Tipping in Indonesia is not mandatory, but no one will run after you to return change, especially in tourist areas like Bali. Restaurants often include a service charge, and if not, you can leave 5-10% of the bill. It's also not customary to tip taxi drivers, but it's better to round up the fare. The people who will definitely expect a tip from you are airport porters. But it's not that simple here; the amount they expect to receive is usually more than the standard $2-3 per bag, so when agreeing to their services, discuss the payment in advance.

Malaysia

In Malaysia, the attitude towards tipping is the same as in Indonesia. If you leave a little extra beyond the bill, no one will object.