Tipping in Japan
Not expectedRestaurants: No tipCurrency: JPY
Tipping is not part of Japanese culture. Good service is considered standard, and leaving money on the table often leads staff to chase you down to return it. Pay the listed price and say thank you.
Tip¥0.00
- Total with tip
- ¥0.00
0
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Right on local custom: no tip.
How much to tip in Japan, by service
| Service | Custom |
|---|---|
| Restaurant or izakaya | No tip |
| Taxi | No tip; pay the meter |
| Hotel | No tip |
| High-end ryokan with personal attendant | Optional ¥3,000–10,000 in an envelope at arrival |
| Private tour guide | Optional small gift or envelope |
| Bar with table charge (otoshi) | Charge is automatic; no tip |
Local know-how
- If you do give money, put it in an envelope (pochi-bukuro) and hand it over with both hands. Loose cash feels transactional.
- Some upscale restaurants and hotels add a 10–15% service charge; that is the only "tip" involved.
Questions people ask
Is it rude to tip in Japan?
Not rude, exactly, but awkward. Staff may refuse it or think you forgot your change. A sincere thank-you is the local custom.
What is otoshi?
A small appetizer at izakaya that comes with a per-person table charge. It is standard, not a tip.