In mainland China, tipping is not a routine expectation. International hotels and tourism services may differ. Hong Kong and Macao have distinct customs and are not covered by this mainland quick answer.
Usually no tipDining quick answer
Guidance applies to the services described below; customs can differ by provider.
FIND YOUR SITUATION
China tipping cheat sheet
Amounts, whether a tip is expected, and the exceptions that matter. Open a row for details.
RestaurantsAdvice & exceptionsUsually no tip
In mainland China, tipping is not a routine expectation. International hotels and tourism services may differ. Hong Kong and Macao have distinct customs and are not covered by this mainland quick answer.
Before paying: Check for an included service charge or gratuity. If adding a card tip, confirm the total before completing payment; with cash, make clear what is a tip and what change you need.
International hotels may include service. Additional tipping is not normally required under the country reference.
FROM ARRIVAL TO CHECKOUT
Your journey
Arriving & getting around
Keep a prepaid airport transfer separate from a metered taxi or a full-day driver. For tour budgets, check the unit and whether guide and driver tips are separate.
Settling into your hotel
A pooled staff gratuity and a personal tip are different arrangements; avoid paying the same gratuity twice.
If you choose to give a personal cash tip, use a currency the recipient can spend and make its purpose clear. Card payment for the bill does not guarantee a card-tip facility. Check the final total before approving it.
For a prepaid tour or resort stay, read the gratuity inclusions. A service fee, a staff tip pool and an individual guide tip may cover different people.
