Translation guide
A gratuity is extra money given for a service, often called a tip. In Japan, tipping is not customary and can even be considered rude. This guide explains how to express the concept and navigate the cultural difference.
The learner wants to refer to the concept of a tip or gratuity in a Japanese context.
The standard loanword for 'tip'. Widely understood, but remember that the practice is not common in Japan.
海外ではチップを渡すのが普通です。
It's normal to give a tip overseas.
チップは必要ありません。
No tip is necessary.
A traditional Japanese term for a small gratuity or token of appreciation, often given in envelopes at ryokan or to service staff. More formal and less common than チップ.
旅館で仲居さんに心付けを渡しました。
I gave a gratuity to the maid at the ryokan.
A monetary gift for celebratory occasions, sometimes used in contexts like tipping a geisha or at weddings. Not a general tip.
芸者さんに祝儀を渡す。
To give a gratuity to a geisha.
The learner wants to explain that a gratuity or service charge is already included in the bill.
Means 'service charge included'. Commonly seen on menus and bills.
この料金はサービス料込みです。
This price includes a service charge.
A more explicit way to say 'service charge is included'.
お会計にはサービス料が含まれています。
The bill includes a service charge.
The learner wants to politely refuse a tip offered by a foreigner, or explain that tipping is not accepted.
A polite way to decline a tip. '結構です' means 'it's fine (without)'.
お客様、チップは結構です。
Sir/Ma'am, we don't accept tips.
A humble way to say 'we cannot accept tips'. Very polite.
申し訳ございませんが、チップはいただけません。
I'm sorry, but we cannot accept tips.
The learner wants to explain to someone why tipping is not practiced in Japan.
In Japan, excellent service is considered part of the job and included in the price. Tipping can imply the worker is not well-paid or that the service was exceptional beyond the norm.
日本では、良いサービスは当たり前と考えられています。
In Japan, good service is considered a matter of course.
チップを渡すと、かえって失礼になることがあります。
Offering a tip can sometimes be rude.
In almost all situations, leaving a tip can cause confusion or embarrassment. It may be refused, or the staff may chase after you to return the money. Except in very specific high-end traditional settings, do not tip.
レストランでチップを置いたら、店員が追いかけてきました。
When I left a tip at the restaurant, the staff ran after me.
If you want to show appreciation, a small gift (omiyage) or a sincere thank-you note is more appropriate than cash. In some cases, a service charge (サービス料) is already added to the bill at upscale places.