Stepping into the world of mahjong feels a bit like opening a treasure box of patterns, strategy, and unexpected joy. If you’re curious about learning the game or wondering what to expect from one of my beginner classes, this guide is for you. Below you’ll find our most helpful Mahjong 101 FAQs, gathered from new players who arrive excited, nervous, or simply unsure where to begin. Consider this your welcome map to the basics so you can walk into class feeling confident and ready to play.
What will I learn in Mahjong 101?
- A brief overview of the game of mahjong including commonly used terms
- Learning the tiles, their suits, and how they are used to build hands
- Reading and interpreting the mahjong card(s)
- The basic rules of American Mahjong
- Building practice hands from the card
- Shuffling, game setup, and dealing
- Gameplay (the Charleston, choosing a hand, drawing and discarding, how and when to claim a discard, and how to win)
- A brief overview of common variations/house rules and game etiquette
Do I need to know anything about Mahjong to attend?
Not at all! Â This class is intended for beginners including those who have never seen the game in action. Â All you need is an interest in learning!Â
What should I bring to the class?
Just bring yourself and a little patience (it can be overwhelming at first!) and be ready to have fun learning!Â
Do I need my own tiles or Mahjong card?
Everything you need to learn and play mahjong will be provided including tiles, racks, mats, and practice cards. Â If you would like to purchase a card to keep, you can order from our shop in advance or purchase after class.
How long is the class?
Mahjong 101 is a three hour session to allow time for instruction and completion of at least one round of gameplay. Â It sounds like a long time, but it will fly by!Â
How many people are in each session?
Classes are kept intentionally small to allow for plenty of 1:1 instruction. No more than 12 players, or 3 tables, will be in a Mahjong 101 class. Â
Will we get to play a full game?
Yes! Â Every Mahjong 101 class completes at least one full hand of mahjong before class ends. In most cases, you will play 2-3 hands.Â
What if I've played before but still feel unsure?
Mahjong 101 could be a great option if you want to go over the game again from the very beginning. Â If you feel like you have a handle on the rules but need someone to help you through your hand and answer questions as they come up, consider registering for Guided Play instead.Â
What is the age range for this class?
This class is recommended for players 13 and older. For younger players, consider booking Mahjong for Kids.Â
How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early to give yourself time to check in, grab a snack or a drink, and get settled at your table.
What is the cancellation/reschedule policy?
More than 48 hours before the ticket event: You may cancel for a full refund or request to transfer your ticket to another available session.
Less than 48 hours before the ticketed event: Tickets are non-refundable, but you may transfer your spot to another person. (Please email us so we can note the name change.)
Click here for our complete cancellation, returns, and refunds policy.
Is there any homework or practice needed after class?
We absolutely recommend practicing after class!  Our favorite way is online at ilovemahj.com.  You can visit the Exercise Room to practice building hands and recognizing patterns, play practice games against the computer with recommended hands, or play live games against your friends or strangers.  The ilovemahj.com site is a great way to learn at your own pace without the added pressure of other players at the table.  Best of all, all of our students get an extended three week free trial when signing up with code MAHJSTYLED!
Will I be ready to join a game after Mahjong 101?
It depends on your comfort level after the lesson and also the game you’re joining! In general, we recommend asking if beginners are welcome at your first several games before signing up. Â However, if you’re confident in your ability to choose your hand, make your Charleston passes, and play the game at a relatively quick pace, then you’ll be ready for most Mahjong games!Â
Do you offer follow-up classes or intermediate lessons?
Absolutely! Â We recommend signing up for a Guided Play session within two weeks of your Mahjong 101 class. Â In this class, you’ll setup the game, deal, and play hands with an instructor there to answer questions, help you play your hand, and offer strategy tips along the way. Â Most players leave feeling confident enough to go to an open play event or join a regular game after this class.Â
If you want to learn even more about Mahjong, we also offer Mahjong 102 (Introduction to American Mahjong Strategy), Mahjong Scoring and Betting, Tournament Play, and Variations of Mahjong classes. Â Click here to see details on all our offerings.Â
Can I book a private lesson for my friends/workplace/ neighborhood?
Absolutely! Â Click here to fill out our booking request form for more information.Â
Where are your classes held?
We hold classes at locations around in NE Wake County, NC and in the greater Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC areas. Â Check our list of upcoming events for classes near you.Â
Do I need to register in advance?
Seats are limited and they fill quickly. Â We highly recommend you purchase your ticket early to secure your preferred date and time.
Do you offer class discounts for returning students?
Yes! You will receive a coupon code valid for a future registration as part of your lesson materials. Â
Does your lesson include blank tiles or "house" rules?
All of our lessons and teaching materials use standard National Mah Jongg League rules. Â In Mahjong 101, after play has concluded, we will discuss some rule variations such as “messy” mahjong, playing with blanks, etc. so that players will be familiar if they encounter these types of play “in the wild.”
What tiles/mats do you use for lessons?
For Mahjong 101 and Guided Play, we most often use Signature Engraved Tile Sets and mats from Amahj. Â These tiles are great for beginners because they are easy to read and the suits are clearly labeled. For other classes, we also use the traditional Classic Tiles from The Mahjong House.Â
Do you offer discounts on tiles and accessories for students?
Yes! Â We partner with the popular mahjong brands that have the highest quality to offer you discounts. Â Visit our Discounts page for the most up-to-date list of our brand partners and coupon codes.Â
