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
Riichi (Japanese) mahjong for beginners
Riichi is the Japanese version, popular in online play and in the video game world. It has its own yaku (scoring patterns) and a signature move: declaring riichi when your hand is one tile from winning.
Guides
Coming soon
- Riichi mahjong for beginners: the basics in plain English
- Riichi yaku: the first ten to learn
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.
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.