Convenience stores, supermarkets & tipping
What 24-hour shops can do for you, and why you usually don't need to tip.
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Convenience stores
Convenience stores are on almost every street corner in big cities, and many are open 24 hours. They're the easiest place to:
- buy water, snacks, hot meals, tissues, umbrellas and phone cables
- try your first phone payment
- top up your phone credit (at some stores)
Supermarkets
Most supermarkets scan your payment code at the till (see How to pay). Bring your own bag — shops usually charge for plastic bags.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected in most places in China, including restaurants and taxis. Some high-end hotels and restaurants add a service charge to the bill. Tour guides and drivers on private tours are the exception, where a tip is sometimes given — ask your tour company what's usual.