Frequently Asked Questions
Mahjong is a game with much complexity as well as many different variations which undoubtedly creates some confusion, especially for newbies to the game! Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about American mahjong and Blue Tiger Mahj Club lessons.
Modern mahjong tiles.
What is mahjong?
Mahjong is a tile game that is rapidly growing in popularity all over the country! This unique tile game is made up of suits, honor tiles, flowers, and more has many versions with unique rules and rituals. There are over 40 versions of mahjong with official rules such as traditional Chinese, to Hong Kong style, Singaporean, Filipino, Japanese Riichi, Wright-Patterson, and American to name a few.
While the game in its tile form originated in China in the mid 1800s, it didn't make its way to the US until 1924. During that first decade the game soared in popularity and the game evolved into the early stages of what we now call American mahjong.
In 1937 a group of Jewish women formed the National Mah Jongg League which is still in existence through today. Their aim was to standardize the game so players could join and play anywhere they went. The NMJL continues to play an important role in American mahjong by creating the annual card we use for play as well as maintaining the standard for the rules of the game.
Whether Jewish, Chinese, Asian or Asian American, the game is often lovingly passed down from generation to generation as a point of pride in both heritage and tradition. Mahjong became- and still is- the vehicle through which community, culture, and traditions are celebrated. Today you will find many versions of the game but one truth holds true - mahjong is about connection and bringing people together around a shared table.
What type of mahjong do you teach & play?
Blue Tiger Mahj Club primarily teaches and plays American mahjong utilizing the standard rules of the game as determined by the National Mah Jongg League. We play with the NMJL annual cards.
Original league members from 1937.
Photo from the National Mah Jongg League.
Do I need a tile set, cards, or any other supplies for a lesson or event?
All lessons and events organized with us include the use of all of our mahjong supplies and teaching materials - just come as you are!
(Open play or league events will require you to bring your own NMJL card, however that will be clearly stated in the description for such events.)
Mahjong tiles from The Charleston Mahjong Club, Yacht Club tiles.
What do I need to supply if I am hosting a lesson?
For private lessons, the host provides the tables and chairs - I take care of the rest. For public events, come as you are and enjoy a fun mahjong gathering!
Typical mahjong game setup.
Where do I order the National Mah Jongg League Card?
Always order your National Mah Jongg League cards directly from the NMJL website. The NMJL is the group that has been around since 1937 and has worked to standardize the game. This is the card that makes American mahjong what it is in American culture today. You can order your card here (I recommend purchasing the larger sized card - trust me, you'll thank me later!)
The 2025 NMJL card with clear copyright statement (which is how you distinguish it as a legitimate card and not a fake)
I already took Beginner Mahj 101 - what's next?
After you have taken your first lesson and have the fundamentals, it is best to join for guided play or a Mahj 102 lesson. Players at these sessions are typically still new to the game and everyone understands we are all learning and trying to figure things out! You are welcome to join for as many guided play sessions as you need until you are feeling confident!
An excellent way to continue to practice is to play online. My favorite site is I Love Mahj and you can use my code "BLUETIGERMAHJ" to get 3 weeks of practice for free. This is a low stress way to make your mistakes while no one is watching!
I also recommend playing solo mahj similar to how it is demonstrated in this video. You don't necessarily need the board but if you would like one you can order it here.
I already know how to play American mahjong. Where can I play and meet new players?
Once you know how to play join us for one of our Open Play or Seasonal Social Leagues. These types of events are designed for players who already have a good handle on the rules and want to play socially with others. Check out the Upcoming Events page to see when our next open play is scheduled.
Open play at ko-ze Wine, Glen Ellyn
Blank mahjong tiles.
What is the deal with blanks?
Many American mahjong tile sets come with blank tiles. The intended purpose for a blank tile is to serve as a replacement should you lose or break a tile so that your set can remain playable.
In recent years, a house rule (rules that do not follow the National Mah Jongg League rules) with blanks is to use them somewhat like jokers. The use of blanks changes the strategy of the game and makes it easier. Some players like to make the game easier - I always say: Your game, your way. Here at Blue Tiger Mahj Club we play by the National Mah Jongg League rules with the exception of special events at certain times of year where we introduce variations (house rules) to players. Whenever we deviate from the NMJL rules, we are sure to inform players that we are playing "house rules."