Frequently asked questions
What is American Mahjong?
American Mahjong (also called American Mah Jongg) is a tile-based game adapted from Chinese Mahjong, played with 166 tiles and governed by the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) annual card. It is typically played by 4 players and is especially popular in the United States among women's social groups and families.
What comes in an American Mahjong set?
A standard American Mahjong set includes 166 tiles (152 standard + 8 jokers + 6 blank tiles), 4 racks, pushers, dice, and a wind indicator. USA Mahjong sets also come in a premium carrying case.
What is the best American Mahjong set for beginners?
For beginners, a melamine set is recommended for its durability and value. The Heritage Ivory is a classic choice. If you want something more stylish, the Emerald Line or Azure Line offer premium melamine tiles with elegant backs.
Do I need an NMJL card to play American Mahjong?
Yes. The National Mah Jongg League publishes a new scorecard each year with updated winning hands. The card is purchased separately from the NMJL website and is required to play by standard American rules.
What materials are American Mahjong tiles made from?
Tiles are commonly made from melamine (durable, matte finish) or acrylic (glossy, premium look). USA Mahjong offers both — melamine sets like The Heritage Ivory and acrylic sets like The Coastal Mist and The Pagoda Sapphire.