Cultural History and Mahjong Stories

Mahjong has been around since the mid-1800s, but the game has no standardized set of rules. There are Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese, Filipino, and American Jewish styles of the game; there are 13-tile and 16-tile versions; and every household has its own system regarding points and scoring. Currently, there are more than 40 known variations.

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How to Play Chinese Mahjong: Rules and Order of Play

Chinese Mahjong follows seven stages every round, from seating and shuffling to calling mahjong and scoring. Here is everything you need to know to sit down and play.

Know Your Tiles: A Beginner's Guide to Every Tile in Chinese Mahjong

Before you can win, you have to know what you are holding. Here is a complete guide to every tile type in a Chinese Mahjong set, from the three number suits to winds and dragons.

Chinese Mahjong vs. American Mahjong: What's the Difference?

Omaha has mahjong teachers, but not all mahjong is the same. Here's what separates Chinese and American mahjong, and why it matters before you sit down at the table.

Introduction to Mahjong: China's Favorite Game and the Culture Behind the Tiles

Mahjong is more than a game — it's one of China's most enduring cultural traditions. Here's an introduction to where it came from, what it means, and why it matters.