American vs Chinese vs Riichi mahjong: which should you learn?
American vs Chinese mahjong, plus Riichi: compare tiles, jokers, scoring and learning curve, and find the version that suits you.
Beginner guides
Chinese and Hong Kong mahjong for beginners
Hong Kong and other Chinese styles use a 136-tile set, no jokers and no yearly card. Many people find them the simplest place to start. Rules and scoring differ from region to region, so ask who you are playing with.
Guides
Coming soon
- How to play Hong Kong mahjong
- Chinese mahjong basics: chows, pungs, pairs and winning hands
More from the guide
How to play
Start here to learn mahjong. Step-by-step guides to the tiles, the turn order, the Charleston and how to win, written in plain English.
American mahjong
American mahjong for beginners: the 152-tile set, the yearly card, jokers and the Charleston, explained step by step in our own words.
Riichi mahjong
Riichi mahjong for beginners: the Japanese style with a 136-tile set, red fives and a declared ready hand, explained in plain English.
Gear
Mahjong gear for beginners: what is in a tile set, how to check you have the right one, and honest buying advice.
Etiquette
Mahjong etiquette for beginners: the unwritten table manners that make new players feel welcome and keep games friendly.
Where to play
Where to play mahjong: how to find a beginner-friendly group, class or club near you, and what to ask before your first game.