Etiquette, Tipping & Culture Notes
No tipping anywhere. Queue firmly. Bring your own toilet paper - the practical stuff nobody tells you.
The basics
No tipping anywhere. Queue firmly. Bring your own toilet paper - the practical stuff nobody tells you.
Should I tip?
No - not taxi drivers, not guides, not restaurants. It can cause genuine confusion.
Any taboos?
Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice; receive cards with both hands; keep your voice moderate on trains.
Toilets & water?
Squat toilets dominate; carry tissue. Tap water is not drinkable - bottled or boiled only.
Frequently asked
Should I tip?
No - not taxi drivers, not guides, not restaurants. It can cause genuine confusion.
Any taboos?
Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice; receive cards with both hands; keep your voice moderate on trains.
Toilets & water?
Squat toilets dominate; carry tissue. Tap water is not drinkable - bottled or boiled only.
Updated 2026-10-29