Tipping in Japan is considered a real no-no. In most other countries throughout the world, tipping is accepted quite willingly and is even expected in some countries such as the USA. If you don’t tip a server in the USA they may chase you down the street asking why you forgot to leave them the tip, in Japan the server may chase you down the street to return the money you left on the table as a tip! I speak from experience during my first trip to Japan almost 20 years ago!!

Although some Asian cultures don’t expect a tip, they will usually accept it. However the Japanese culture is of an entirely different mindset, it will be adamantly refused. In fact, if you offer a tip to a Japanese server or taxi driver they will feel quite awkward and uncomfortable at the gesture. So why don’t they want to accept a tip? There are several reasons.

One reason is that service workers in Japan don’t need to depend on any tips to supplement their income. Another reason is that by offering a tip you’re implying that the Patron or owner of the business isn’t paying them enough of a salary. The Japanese culture values respect and hard work so good service is expected and not something that should require any reward, the service should always be good and it’s a matter of pride to provide the best possible service.

Sometimes the more upmarket Western restaurants will add a gratuity or service charge directly to bill but it would be rare to find this in most authentic Japanese restaurants.

So as with most rules there are a few exceptions. Occasionally you can give tip if you have experienced exceptional service and would like to say thank you in the form of cash. For example you could perhaps want to tip a tour guide who you believe has really done more than expected during your trip. Or if you stay at a traditional Ryokan because you have so had so much attention from your personal attendant (nakai-san) sometimes a tip will be accepted but there is a strict etiquette to be observed if you do so.

A cash tip should not be offered in the same way a tip is offered in Western cultures, as showing one’s cash in public is considered arrogant and impolite. Instead, the money (only clean notes) should be presented in a tasteful, clean, sealed envelope, preferably a ‘Pochibukuro’ which is decorated beautifully for the purpose of giving money. Otherwise any clean plain envelope will do.

When presenting the envelope it should be offered in the same way as you would offer a gift, by following the Japanese ritual of using both hands to present it. Don’t be surprised if the envelope is refused up to three times before being quietly accepted. This should be done discreetly in private to avoid the recipient feeling any embarrassment when accepting it.

I think this is such a lovely tradition. What do you think?

So if you ever visit Japan, put your tip away and offer a meaningful bow of the head instead to show your appreciation!

Julia Esteve Boyd

The Etiquette Consultant