Beginner guides
Where to play mahjong: find a group or class
The fastest way to learn is to play with people. Here is how to find a beginner-friendly group or class, and what to ask before you go.
Guides are on the way
We are writing the first guides for this section now. In the meantime, the topics below are what we plan to cover.
Coming soon
- How to find a mahjong group or class near you
- What to bring to your first mahjong game
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.
Chinese and Hong Kong mahjong
Chinese and Hong Kong mahjong for beginners: a 136-tile set, no card, no jokers, and one of the easiest ways into the game.
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.