Mana & Shoya
Tipping Culture
In the U.S., it is customary to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, and other service locations.
Although this practice is uncommon in Japan, we hope the guide below helps you feel comfortable during your stay.
❖ Standard Tipping Guidelines
・Restaurants (table service):
15–20% of your bill is customary.
As a general rule, 15% for lunch and around 20% for dinner.
・Cafés / Takeout (self-service):
Tipping is usually not required.
You may see a “Tip” option on a tablet screen, but it is entirely optional.
・Taxis / Ride-share (Uber, Lyft):
Around 15% is typical.
・Hotel Bell Staff:
$2–$3 per piece of luggage.
・Housekeeping:
$2–$5 per night, left on the pillow or a visible place.
❖ Why Tipping Is Necessary
In the United States, many service employees receive lower base wages because tipping is expected.
As a result, tips function both as a “thank you” for good service and as an essential part of their compensation.
❖ How to Pay Tips
Tips can be given in cash or by credit card.
When paying by card, simply write the amount in the “Tip” line on the receipt and fill in the Total, and it will be charged accordingly.
-----------------Below is an explanation of how to tip in the United States------------------
How to Pay Tips by Credit Card (At Restaurants)
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Ask for the check
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Hand over your credit card
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Review the receipt
Most receipts include the following three lines:-
Tip / Gratuity: Where you write the tip amount
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Total: The total amount including the tip
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Amount: The original bill (food + tax)
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Decide the tip amount
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Fill in the Tip and Total lines
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Take your copy
If there are two receipts:、-
Merchant Copy: Leave this for the restaurant
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Customer Copy: Take this home
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When Paying with a Tablet (Touchscreen Checkout)
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The staff enters the amount and shows you the “Tip” screen
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Select your preferred tip amount from 15％ / 18％ / 20％ / Custom
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Review the Total
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Press “OK” or “Pay”
Taxis, Uber, and Lyft
Taxis：
The credit card terminal will display a screen where you can choose a tip (either a percentage or a set amount).
Selecting around 15–20% is standard, then confirm the payment.
Uber / Lyft (ride-share apps):
After the ride, a “Tip” screen will appear in the app.Choose the amount or percentage you prefer, or enter your own.
Cash tips are also accepted.
