A clear, beginner-friendly guide to American Mahjong — from learning the rules to understanding the NMJL card and practicing real hands online.
🀄 Learn American Mahjong step by step
🎯 Understand the NMJL scoring card
🧠 Practice online and play with confidence
🀄 Learn the American Mahjong Rules
▶️ Practice American Mahjong Online
Whether you’re brand new to Mahjong or looking to sharpen your skills, Mahjong Rules is your go-to guide for learning American Mahjong — the version most commonly played in the United States.
We break everything down step by step, from understanding your first tiles to reading the National Mahjong League (NMJL) card. No confusing jargon, no overcomplicated explanations — just clear, practical guidance to help you learn faster and play with confidence.
What Is American Mahjong?
American Mahjong is a four-player tile game that blends luck, logic, and memory. While it originated in China more than 150 years ago, American players have made it their own — adding Jokers, Charleston exchanges, and a new card of winning hands every year.
That mix of tradition and creativity is what makes it so special — and so addictive.
What You’ll Learn Here
We focus on everything you need to play and enjoy American Mahjong, including:
🃏 The Basic Rules – Setup, gameplay, and tile combinations
🧩 The Annual Mahjong Card – How to read and score using the NMJL card
💡 Beginner Tips & Strategy – Learn faster and avoid common mistakes
🪄 Where to Play Online – Trusted sites like I Love Mahj where you can practice and play
🎁 Recommended Mahjong Sets & Accessories – Our favorite sets for home games
Learn & Play American Mahjong Online
If you’d like to learn by playing, we recommend I Love Mahj — an official American Mahjong platform that’s beginner-friendly, browser-based, and uses the real NMJL card.
It’s the perfect place to practice what you learn here.
Who Is This Site For?
- Total beginners who want a non-intimidating introduction
- Casual players ready to learn scoring and etiquette
- Competitive grinders looking to compare global formats
- Teachers and organizers seeking accurate rule explanations
About Connor
💬 “I used to think mahjong was a game for old men in smoky rooms. Then I played a Riichi match online that nearly gave me a heart attack – in the best way possible.”
Connor is a lifelong strategy gamer who fell in love with mahjong while living abroad in Southeast Asia. What began as a curiosity turned into a full-blown obsession. He’s played hundreds of hours across all major formats – from fast Hong Kong games in crowded cafés to solo American-style training sessions late at night.
Connor contributes in-depth reviews, personal strategy advice, and accessible breakdowns for new players. His mission? Help more people appreciate how much depth – and joy – mahjong can offer.
Start Here
- How to Play Mahjong – Beginner’s Guide
- Rules by Country
- Mahjong Terms Glossary
- Best Mahjong Platforms Online (2026)
🀄 Mahjong isn’t just a game. It’s a culture, a mindset, and a puzzle with infinite solutions. Welcome to the journey.