Learn American mahjong at your own pace
Clear, friendly guides for new and returning players. Big type, plain words, and no question is too basic. Whether your group meets on Tuesdays or you just bought your first set, start here.
Today's puzzle
Three quick questions on the rules, about two minutes a day. Play today's puzzle.
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Learn the game
Start here. Tiles, rules and the Charleston.
- How to play American mahjong: a complete beginner's guideLearn American mahjong step by step: the tiles, the card, the Charleston, taking turns, calling discards and winning. Plain words, no jargon.
- Mahjong tiles explained: what every tile meansA plain guide to the 152 tiles in an American mahjong set: bams, craks, dots, winds, dragons, flowers and jokers, and how each one is used.
- The mahjong Charleston: how it works and what to passHow the Charleston works in American mahjong: the passing order, the optional second Charleston, blind passes, the courtesy pass, and what to pass.
- How to read the mahjong cardLearn to read the National Mah Jongg League card: sections, colors, numbers, letters, X and C, and point values, with an invented practice hand.
- American vs Chinese mahjong: what is the difference?How American mahjong differs from Chinese and Hong Kong mahjong, plus Wright-Patterson rules: tiles, jokers, the card, the Charleston and scoring.
Play better
Choosing hands, jokers and defense.
- Jokers in American mahjong: every rule in plain wordsWhen you can and cannot use a joker in American mahjong: groups of three or more only, never pairs or singles, swapping jokers, and discarded jokers.
- American mahjong strategy for beginnersSimple American mahjong strategy for new players: choosing a hand, keeping a backup, using jokers wisely, reading discards, and playing safe defense.
Play together
Hosting, etiquette and finding a group.
- How to host a mahjong party (even if you are new)Everything you need to host a mahjong night: how many players per table, supplies, table setup, tile-friendly food, house rules to agree on, and a simple plan.
- Mahjong etiquette and table rulesThe unwritten rules of the mahjong table: naming discards, calling in time, table talk, mistakes, dead hands and being a welcoming player for beginners.
- How to find a mahjong group near youWhere to find mahjong groups, clubs and beginner lessons near you: libraries, community and senior centers, social media, local teachers, and starting your own.
Sets and gear
What to look for before you buy.
Free large-print cheat sheets
Print a one-page Charleston and joker reminder to keep beside your rack. See the printables.
Good Morning Mahj is an independent site. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Mah Jongg League. We never reproduce hands from the official card; please buy your card from the League each year.