While tipping is rarely "illegal," it is culturally discouraged or even considered an insult in several countries, most notably Japan and South Korea. in 2026, Japanese service workers generally take immense pride in providing high-quality hospitality (Omotenashi) without expecting extra compensation; leaving money on a table might even result in a waiter chasing you down the street to return your "lost" change. Similarly, in China and Singapore, tipping is not a traditional part of the culture, and many high-end restaurants in Singapore automatically include a 10% service charge in the bill, making additional tips unnecessary. In Switzerland, federal law mandates that service charges be included in all published prices, so you are never obligated to tip at restaurants or spas. While Western influence has made tips more "accepted" in tourist hubs, the premier etiquette in these nations remains a polite "thank you" rather than a cash gratuity.