Your first table starts here.
A game born in China, played here with an American ruleset. Learn the familiar tiles, keep the current card close, then take the first hand one decision at a time.
For the four-player American table game. Use your group’s current card and agreed rules.
card Not reproduced here
Where did the Chinese characters go?
They are still on many American Mah Jongg tiles. Craks are the character or wan suit; Winds often show 東, 南, 西, 北; the red and green Dragons often show 中 and 發. English names and small corner letters help English-speaking players read them. Tile artwork varies by set.
See the tile facesWhat changed in American play?
In the National Mah Jongg League style taught here, players use an annually updated card of valid hands, pass tiles in the Charleston, and play with Jokers. Chinese mahjong has multiple regional rules rather than one universal “traditional” rulebook; those American steps should not be assumed at another table.
Sources: National Mah Jongg League · British Museum · American Mah Jongg Association tile guide
A path you can use while you play.
Open the step that matches what is happening now. Every page leads back to the first-game route.
See the whole route- 01See every tile familyPictures and counts for the 152-tile American set.
- 02Follow a first handSeats, dice, deal, Charleston, calls, Jokers, and the finish.
- 03Find your next passSee the Charleston directions in order.
- 04Pause at a JokerCheck the basic limits before you make a move.
- 05Get a quick answerCommon first-table questions, from dice to wall games.
- 06Find a real tableOnline practice and paths to an in-person lesson.
The card stays on the table.
The annual card tells you which complete hands count. This guide helps you follow the game around it; it does not show or replace the card.
Visit the official NMJL storeThe official store listed a 2026 card when checked on September 29, 2026. Verify the current offering before buying.
Looking for another kind of Mahjong?
This route is for American Mah Jongg with an annual card. Mahjong Solitaire is a one-player matching game; Riichi, Hong Kong, and other table versions use different rules. Check the version your group plays before following a guide.