A Complete Overview of the Game, the NMJL Card, and What You Need to Play
If you are new to American mahjong, you are in exactly the right place.
Mahj 101 is a step by step video series designed to teach you how to play American mahjong using the official National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) Card. This first lesson gives you the big picture. What the game is, how American mahjong differs from other versions, and what you need to get started with confidence.
You do not need prior experience, memorization, or special skills. By the end of this series, you will be ready to sit down at a table and play your very first game.
Watch: Mahj 101 Learn American Mahjong for Beginners
What Is Mahjong?
Mahjong is a tile based game that originated in China and has evolved into several regional styles around the world. While many versions share similar tiles and concepts, American mahjong follows its own distinct structure and rules.
Unlike other forms of mahjong, American mahjong:
- Uses jokers
- Follows preset hands
- Is governed by an official rules card published annually
- Emphasizes both strategy and adaptability
That official structure is what makes American mahjong both approachable for beginners and endlessly interesting for experienced players.
What Is the NMJL Card and Why Does It Matter?
The National Mah Jongg League Card is the foundation of American mahjong.
Each card:
- Lists the playable hands for the year
- Establishes official rules of play
If you are learning American mahjong, you must have the current NMJL Card.
You can order the current NMJL Card here for fastest shipping:
https://southernsparrow.com/products/nmjl-card-2025-americanmahjong
We recommend having the card in front of you while watching this series so you can follow along visually as concepts are introduced.
What You Need to Play American Mahjong
To play and host American mahjong, you will need a few essential items.
American Mahjong Tile Set
Be sure your tiles are designed specifically for American mahjong, including jokers, flowers, and correct tile counts.
Explore American mahjong tile sets and accessories here:
https://southernsparrow.com/collections/shop-all-products
Four Racks With Pushers
Racks hold your tiles upright and hidden from other players. Pushers allow you to move your wall smoothly during play.
The Current NMJL Card
Each player should have access to the card during the game. Many players keep their own personal copy.
How This Mahj 101 Series Works
Mahj 101 is designed to be watched in order. Each episode builds on the last so that concepts are introduced gradually and logically.
Here is what you will learn throughout the series.
Episode Guide
Episode 1
What is mahjong? What is American mahjong? What you need to play.
https://youtu.be/7fTxwqUfFYU
Episode 2
Learn the tiles. Bams, Craks, Dots, Winds, Dragons, Flowers, and Jokers.
https://youtu.be/rdYyflIgcww
Episode 3
How to read and use the NMJL Card.
https://youtu.be/W8gbw3Hj0Rc
Episode 4
How to set up the table and deal tiles.
https://youtu.be/9IYv8x9F5ec
Episode 5
How to organize your tiles and choose a section on the card.
https://youtu.be/Ak8sPO2UzM4
Episode 6
How to do the Charleston and Courtesy Pass.
https://youtu.be/kyms4daZvPo
Episode 7
Gameplay basics. Turn order, discards, calling tiles, exposures, and jokers.
https://youtu.be/861dOMa1--o
Episode 8
Declaring mahjong, scoring, and betting.
https://youtu.be/akRSoPAC8E8
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Mahj 101
Watch the episodes in order.
Keep your NMJL Card nearby.
Follow along with your own tiles and racks.
Pause and replay as needed. Everyone learns at a different pace.
You do not need to memorize everything at once. Mahjong is learned through exposure and repetition, and this series is designed to support that process.
Ready for the Next Lesson?
Now that you understand what American mahjong is and how this series works, you are ready to move on.
Next up is Episode 2, Mahjong Tiles Explained.
A Note from Southern Sparrow
Mahj 101 was created to make American mahjong more approachable without sacrificing the beauty, tradition, and rhythm that make the game so special.
Whether you are learning for the first time, returning after a break, or teaching friends, we are honored to be part of your mahjong journey.