Should I or Should I Not Tip?
The answer is DO NOT TIP! There is absolutely no need to tip for services or food in Japan as employees are all paid a fair wage and every job is viewed important to society's functions - thus, Japanese workers do not expect a tip for any type of service and will most often politely decline your tip if you try to. Although it is very uncommon for customers to tip for food or services in Japan, upscale establishments will sometimes add a ‘service charge’ to the bill. This is usually indicated somewhere on the menu or upon entrance.
Also, be aware that many places charge ‘cover charge’ or ‘table charge’. Depending on the place, you might receive a small appetizer for this money, or sometimes just a seat. Prices vary; I’ve had to pay cover charges anywhere between a few hundred yen (3$) to over two thousand yen (20$). That being said, if you have any other questions regarding Japanese culture or traditions such as the one discussed in this post, feel free to message any of the private tour guides on GoWithGuide and take a look at all the wonderful cultural experiences that you can encounter on a trip to Japan.
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