In the last Mahjong Made Simple lesson, we talked about how to choose a line on the card. Now let’s get the table ready. If you’re hosting your first American mahjong game and wondering what goes at each seat, here’s how I set mine up.
Watch Episode 5 on Instagram — Setting the Mahjong Table
What do you need to play American mahjong?
For a standard four-player game, start with these basics:
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An American mahjong tile set. If you’re shopping for your first set, check that it’s labeled for American mahjong and includes jokers.
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Four racks. Set one at each seat so every player has a place to line up their tiles.
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A current mahjong card for each player. Make sure everyone is playing from the same year’s card.
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A table and four chairs. Leave enough room in the middle to mix the tiles and see what everyone discards.
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A mahjong mat. A mat softens the sound when you mix the tiles and protects the tabletop.
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Lay out your mat.
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Put a rack and card at each seat.
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Place the tiles face down in the center. Leave that space clear so everyone can help mix the tiles before you build the walls.
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Give drinks and snacks their own spot. I like to keep them off to the side so there’s plenty of room to play.
If you’re learning with friends, have everyone set up their own spot as you watch the reel. It’s an easy way to get familiar with what’s on the table before you start playing.
Need racks, pushers, or a mat? Explore Katsco’s Mahjong Accessories.