How Much Do You Tip a Tour Guide in China? Expert Guide for Foreign Travelers

Tipping is not a common practice in most aspects of daily life in mainland China. However, it has become customary to tip tour guides as a gesture of appreciation for good service. In Hong Kong and Macau, tipping is more common due to Western influence.

Usually, for foreign group tours, tipping tour guides and drivers is expected. In high-end hotels and restaurants that cater to Western tourists, tipping is usually appreciated but not mandatory. Keep reading the expert guide for foreign travelers about how to tip a tour guide in China.

Tipping in China Mainland Is Not Expected

In most situations, tipping is not expected in Mainland China. In some cases, it might even lead to confusion and attempts to return the tip by the service staff. The local custom is for tips not to be given at common restaurants, taxis, and for services like spas and salons.

In tourist areas, where establishments have more experience with international travelers, tipping is still not expected but will be appreciated. If you receive great service and want to show your appreciation, you can feel free to leave a tip. A small amount, around 5-10% of the bill, rounded up will be received with thanks by staff who went above and beyond to provide you with a good experience.

Tipping to a tour guide is appreciated for good service.

Tipping in Hong Kong Is Appreciated and Important

Hong Kong has its own tipping culture, which is distinct from that of the mainland. Its long history as a British colony led to the fusion of Western and Chinese cultural norms. Tipping is one area where Hong Kong is more similar to Western countries, and tipping at international restaurants, hotels, and tour guides is routine.

The expectation of a tip is part of the income for tour guides in Hong Kong. You can expect excellent and attentive service from your guide and should tip accordingly. Plan to tip 7-14 USD per day for good service on a group tour. For private tours, where you receive more personalized attention, a tip of 10-20 USD per day is appropriate.

A 10% service charge is usually charged as a tip in Hong Kong.

Best Ways to Give a Tip to a Tour Guide in China

The act of tipping is part of the gesture, and the tip should be given directly to the tour guide. Options for tipping tour guides will usually not be included with the bill, so it is best to tip in cash. Local currency, the Chinese yuan, is best, but major foreign currencies will also do if you don’t have enough yuan.

Hand the tip directly to the guide at the end of the tour. Offer it with a smile and your thanks. On group tours, it’s easiest for one person to collect the tips from the group members, and hand it to the guide on everyone’s behalf.

The tip is directly given to the person in cash in China.

Alternative Ways to Tipping a Tour Guide

In situations where a cash tip is not appropriate or as an added gesture of thanks, there are some alternatives you can consider. Positive reviews on popular platforms such as TripAdvisor and Google Business are always appreciated by guides and travel agencies. Mention the guide and any other helpful staff by name, if appropriate, to give them clear recognition for the service they provided.

Word-of-mouth recommendations are always a strong sign of appreciation, as are small gifts. Souvenirs or symbols from your home country are a nice token of gratitude that will let your guide know you value their efforts.

8 Days Classic Golden Triangle China Tour to Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai

Beijing - Xi'an - Shanghai

Who Else Need You Tip?

Tipping your tour driver is also a good idea. Drivers work the same long hours as tour guides while ensuring your safe transfer between destinations. When they make an effort to help with luggage or other contributions, a small tip will be appreciated. Consider a tip of 30-50 yuan per day (4-7 USD) to show your thanks.

In Mainland China, you do not have to tip hotel or restaurant staff. Your travel agency will have worked out rates in advance, and higher-end establishments will sometimes factor in service charges. In other cases, no additional tip will be expected by the staff.

The driver is expected to tip for a good service.

When NOT to Tip a Tour Guide?

There are a few situations when you should not tip. First, do not tip for poor service. If you encounter situations where your guide is inattentive or unprofessional, there is no obligation to tip.

Guides might also politely refuse a tip, particularly in more traditional settings. It is ok to repeat the offer, if you receive a refusal, but don’t insist if the guide continues to decline the tip.

At some government-owned attractions policy may prevent staff from accepting tips. Staff will understand that you may not know the policy in advance, and will certainly appreciate the gesture. If they refuse, don’t insist, and verbal thanks will be enough.

10 Days China Tour to Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Shanghai

Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Yangshuo - Shanghai

Conclusion

Tipping culture in China might be a little more nuanced and complex than what you’re used to. Hong Kong is closer to Western customs when it comes to tipping, and in mainland China, the more international the setting, the more likely tipping is customary. Tip your guide and driver when they provide excellent service for your China tour, and never insist too heavily in the face of a polite refusal. People in China are understanding of cultural differences, so don’t worry about making a mistake. Gestures of appreciation are always appreciated and are a great way to share warm moments with locals.