American Mahjong vs. Chinese Mahjong: What's the Difference?

Mahjong is Mahjong, right? Not quite. If you've been researching the game, you've probably noticed that American Mahjong and Chinese Mahjong look similar — but play very differently. Here's everything you need to know to understand the two versions and decide which one is right for you.

A Brief History

Chinese Mahjong is the original. It originated in China during the Qing dynasty and spread globally in the early 20th century.

American Mahjong developed in the 1920s after the game arrived in the United States. Over time, American players adapted the rules significantly. In 1937, the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) was founded to standardize the American version — and it's been publishing an annual card of winning hands ever since.

Key Differences at a Glance

Tile Differences

Both versions use bamboo, circle (dot), and character (crak) suits, plus wind and dragon tiles. However:

• American Mahjong sets include joker tiles — wild cards that can substitute for any tile in a group of 3 or more.
• American sets also include flowers and season tiles, though these are used differently than in Chinese Mahjong.
• American sets have 152 tiles total vs. 144 in Chinese sets.

Rule Differences

The Charleston

One of the biggest differences. American Mahjong begins with the Charleston, where players pass tiles to each other before gameplay starts. Chinese Mahjong has no equivalent.

Winning Hands

In Chinese Mahjong, winning hands follow traditional patterns (sequences, triplets, pairs) that stay consistent year to year.

In American Mahjong, valid winning hands are published on the NMJL card and change every year. This keeps the game fresh — but means you need to buy a new card annually.

Calling Tiles

In American Mahjong, you can only call a discarded tile if it completes your winning hand (Mah Jongg). In Chinese Mahjong, you can call tiles to complete sets (pungs, chows, kongs) at any point during play.

Scoring

American Mahjong scoring is straightforward — each hand on the NMJL card has a fixed point value. Chinese Mahjong scoring is more complex and varies by regional rules.

Which Should You Learn?

Learn American Mahjong if:

• You're in the US and want to play with friends, at clubs, or in tournaments
• You prefer a structured, standardized game
• You enjoy the social ritual of the Charleston
• You're a beginner looking for clear, consistent rules

Learn Chinese Mahjong if:

• You want to connect with the game's cultural roots
• You're interested in playing internationally
• You prefer a game with more strategic flexibility

For most women in the US picking up Mahjong for the first time, American Mahjong is the way to go. It's what your local game group is almost certainly playing.

Can You Use the Same Set for Both?

Not quite. American Mahjong sets include jokers, which Chinese Mahjong doesn't use. You can play Chinese Mahjong with an American set by simply setting the jokers aside — but a dedicated Chinese set won't work for American Mahjong.

Looking for the right set? See our Mahjong Picks guide.

Ready to Get Started?

Now that you know the difference, it's time to pick your version and dive in. If you're in the US, start with American Mahjong — and check out our American Mahjong Rules for Beginners guide to learn the game step by step.

And when you're ready to play in style, our handmade Mahjong bags are a beautiful way to carry your tiles. Crafted from authentic designer scarves, they're as unique as your game. 🀄