No, you do not tip hotel maids in Japan, and doing so can actually cause confusion or even offense. Tipping is not part of Japanese culture; instead, excellent service is considered a standard expectation that is already built into the price of your room. If you leave cash on the pillow or a nightstand, the housekeeper will likely assume you simply forgot your money and may even chase you down in the lobby to return it. In 2026, this "no-tip" rule remains a defining feature of the Japanese hospitality experience (Omotenashi). If you truly feel that a maid has gone above and beyond—perhaps by cleaning a particularly difficult mess or helping you find a lost item—the best way to show your gratitude is by writing a polite thank-you note (a simple "Arigato" goes a long way) or by leaving a very small, wrapped gift from your home country. If you absolutely insist on giving money, it must be placed inside a clean, decorative envelope (Pochi Bukuro) and handed over with a bow, but even then, it is generally discouraged in favor of a heartfelt written compliment to the hotel management.