How Does Tipping Work in Hong Kong?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Tipping is optional in Hong Kong as most restaurants add a 10% service charge automatically.
2What You Need to Know
Most mid-range and upscale restaurants in Hong Kong automatically add a 10% service charge to the bill, so an additional tip is not expected. At cha chaan tengs (local Hong Kong cafés) and dai pai dongs (open-air food stalls), no tipping is customary. Hotel staff appreciate HKD 10–20 per service. Taxi drivers are typically rounded up to the nearest dollar, or a few extra dollars for good service.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Check your restaurant bill for the '10% service charge' line before adding any extra tip
- 2For hotel porters and housekeeping, HKD 10–20 per bag or per night is a generous and appreciated gesture
- 3Taxi drivers do not expect tips — simply round up to the nearest dollar or leave small change
How does this compare?
Tipping rules in nearby and similar countries:
Do not tip in Japan. Tipping is considered rude and may cause embarrassment.
Tipping is appreciated and expected in tourist areas. 20–50 THB at restaurants, 20–100 THB for massage, round up taxi fares.
Do not tip in Singapore. A 10% service charge is automatically added to all restaurant bills. Tipping is not part of the culture.
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