DON'T: PAY TIPS Japan does not have a tipping culture and drivers neither expect nor accept money in excess of the fare displayed on the meter. They will not accept haggling either. Cash is the safest way to pay, though an increasing number of taxis now also take IC cards like Pasmo and Suica as well as credit cards.

In Tokyo, and throughout Japan, tipping taxi drivers is not expected and can often be seen as a confusing or even slightly rude gesture. Japanese culture is built on the principle of Omotenashi, which means providing high-quality service without the expectation of a reward beyond the agreed-upon price. When you take a taxi in Tokyo, the price shown on the meter is exactly what you are expected to pay. If you try to hand over extra cash as a tip, the driver will likely think you have made a mistake and will politely try to return the change to you. In some rare cases, if you have a driver who has gone significantly above and beyond (such as helping with heavy luggage for an extended period), you might say "otsuri wa irimasen" (keep the change), but even this is uncommon. Most modern Tokyo taxis accept credit cards, Suica/Pasmo cards, and apps like GO or S.Ride, which further removes the need for cash gratuities. The best way to show your appreciation is with a polite "Arigato gozaimasu" (Thank you very much) as you exit the vehicle through the door (which, notably, the driver will open and close automatically for you).