Cash, card or IC card in Japan
You are not sure what to carry, and you do not want to be stuck at a till.
Food, etiquette and daily basics
Tipping and service charges in Japan
You are used to adding something extra, and you do not want to offend anyone.
You do not tip in Japan. JNTO states that Japan does not have a tipping culture and that you only pay the amount shown on the bill 1. This applies in restaurants, hotels, taxis and other services, so you can settle up calmly.
Why is tipping not expected?
Good service is treated as part of the job, not something to be rewarded with cash. A tip can feel awkward to the person receiving it, and staff may try to return the money.
If you want to show thanks, kind words work better. See our wider first-timer etiquette guide.
What is on the bill?
Read the total on the bill. Where a service charge applies, it appears as a line, and you pay that amount as shown. Check whether the price shown includes consumption tax. If something is unclear, ask staff politely before you pay.
For hotel taxes, see accommodation tax at Japanese stays.
How do you say thanks instead?
- Say arigato gozaimasu with a small nod.
- Say itadakimasu before eating and gochisosama deshita after.
- At a ryokan, a short written thank-you note is welcome.
- Leave the room tidy.
How should you pay?
Most stores and restaurants take major cards, but Japan is still a cash culture, and small shops and guest houses may take only cash 2. Carry some yen. Our guide to cash, cards and IC cards explains the mix.
What about tax-free shopping?
Tax-free shops sell goods to non-residents free of consumption tax. The procedure must be completed at the time of purchase, with your passport showing an entry stamp 3. Read the tax-free shopping note and the process guide.
What should Malaysian travellers know?
Malaysians used to service charges on restaurant bills should read each Japanese bill carefully, as the layout differs. For a popular restaurant, see restaurant reservations. We brief your group on payment habits before you go.
If you would like a short etiquette and payment briefing for your group before you fly, send us your dates and who is travelling. We cover tipping, cash and card in one message.
Keep planning
Do you need restaurant reservations in Japan?
You are afraid of arriving hungry and finding every table taken, with no Japanese to ask.
Etiquette mistakes first-timers worry about in Japan
You are afraid of doing something rude, and want to know which rules really matter.
How tax-free shopping works in Japan
You plan to shop in Japan and want the tax-free price without a headache at the till.
Hotel accommodation tax in Japan
The room price looked clear, and now a small extra charge is waiting at checkout.
Tax-free shopping
A way to avoid consumption tax on shopping, if you meet the shop's conditions.
Questions travellers ask
Do you tip in Japan?
No. JNTO states that Japan does not have a tipping culture and that you only pay the amount shown on the bill, in restaurants, hotels, taxis and other services. Leaving extra money can cause confusion, as staff may try to return it.
What is a service charge, and will I see one?
A service charge is a fee some places add to the bill instead of a tip. Where it applies, it appears as a line on the bill, so read the total and ask staff if you are unsure. Pay what the bill shows and nothing more.
How can I thank someone good service?
A sincere thank you, a small bow and kind words go further than money. Say arigato gozaimasu, or itadakimasu before a meal and gochisosama deshita after. A written thank-you note at a ryokan is also welcome.
Should I carry cash for small bills?
Yes, some. JNTO says most stores and restaurants take cards, but Japan is still a cash culture and small shops and guest houses may only take cash. Carry yen for small meals and a card for larger payments.
Ready to shape your Japan trip?
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