Mahj Play

Tiles

American Mahjong tile families.

Before reading a card, learn the tile families and shorthand that American Mah Jongg players use at the table.

Open a table Beginner card

American Mah Jongg

Numbered Suits

Bams, Craks, and Dots run from one through nine. Many players write them as 1B, 1C, and 1D when discussing hands.

Honors And Flowers

Winds are East, South, West, and North. Dragons include red, green, and soap. Flowers are special tiles that appear in many American-style card lines.

Jokers

Jokers are separate tiles used in larger groups. They create flexibility, but they also affect defense because exposed Jokers can be exchanged.

Keep learning

Next useful pages

Learn / How To Read American Mahjong CardHow to Read an American Mahjong Card | Beginner GuideLearn how American Mahjong card lines work, including hand names, tile groups, values, exposed hands, and concealed hands.Learn / JokersJokers in American Mahjong | Rules and TipsUnderstand Jokers in American Mahjong, including where Jokers can help, Joker exchange, and common beginner mistakes.Learn / American Mahjong RulesAmerican Mahjong Rules for Beginners | Mahj PlayA beginner guide to American Mahjong rules: racks, Charleston, drawing, discarding, exposures, Jokers, and Mah Jongg.