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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/trav-japan-tipping-not-customary

You finish a great dinner in Tokyo. What is the local custom about tipping?

Tipping is not customary in Japan. Staff may even hand your money back.

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  1. Leave 15 to 20 percent on the table
  2. Tipping is not customary ✔
  3. Tip in coins only, never bills

Why: Japan's service workers do not depend on tips, so leaving one is not expected. A Tokyo Metropolitan Government volunteer guide teaches the phrase: Tipping is not customary in Japan.

Huh, didn't know that: The Tokyo guide says many tourists are surprised when a Japanese server politely refuses their tip.

The dad joke
I left a tip in Tokyo and the waiter chased me down the block to return it. Best cardio of my trip.
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References

Answer: Tipping is not customary. Japan's service workers do not depend on tips, so leaving one is not expected. A Tokyo Metropolitan Government volunteer guide teaches the phrase: Tipping is not customary in Japan.

  1. Tokyo Volunteer Legacy Network (Tokyo Metropolitan Government): Japan as seen by foreigners, Tipping www.vln.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/?p=51920
    Tipping is not customary in Japan.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Tokyo Volunteer Legacy Network: Japan as seen by foreigners, Tipping (service charge) www.vln.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/?p=51920
    in many places, especially in Tokyo with its many restaurants and bars, a service charge is included as a gratuity instead
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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