Different Styles of Mahjong

Mahjong is played around the world, but rules, tiles, scoring, and winning hands vary by style. Popular versions include:

• National Mah Jongg League-style Mahjong

• Chinese Classical Mahjong

• Hong Kong Mahjong

• Japanese Riichi Mahjong

• Taiwanese Mahjong

• Filipino Mahjong

• Wright-Patterson Mahjong

National Mah Jongg League-style Mahjong uses jokers, a Charleston, racks, and an annual card of approved hands. Chinese and Hong Kong styles generally build hands from combinations such as pungs, kongs, chows, and pairs. Japanese Riichi includes its own scoring system, betting sticks, and defensive strategies.

Players should agree on the style and rules before beginning. Mid Mo Mahjong lessons focus on National Mah Jongg League rules and the current annual card.