What You'll Learn​​

• Basic set up and  game flow

• Introduction to the tiles and how to build a hand

• What tiles to keep and what to discard

• Understand the basics of scoring and strategy

• We will practice playing many games together from beginning to end

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Hong Kong or American Mahjong — Which is Right for You?
 

We teach and play both Hong Kong and American Mahjong, and choosing between them really comes down to what appeals to you.
 

• Hong Kong Mahjong is a great place to start if you’re looking for a more traditional, straightforward introduction to the game.  You will learn to build your hand, make strategic choices, and understand how different combinations and patterns score.
   

• American Mahjong adds a little more structure and variety, with the Charleston and an annual card  that features a selection of hands to choose from. It can be a great fit if you enjoy more variation, like a little extra strategy, or have friends and family who already play American Mahjong.
   

And the good news? Once you learn one, learning the other becomes much easier. The same core skills, reading the tiles, building your hand, making decisions and knowing when to play or pass, carry over from one version to the next. So, choose the style that feels right for you, and we’ll help you get started.

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How the Program Works​

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Hong Kong - 3 weekly sessions, 2 hours each

Session 1 - Learn the Fundamentals

                   Get familiar with the tiles, table set up and basic flow of game.  Learn how tiles are drawn                           and discarded, how to build sets and pairs, and what it takes to complete a winning hand.

Session 2 - Build Your Hand

                   Introduction to the different scoring combinations and patterns and understand the                                     basics of scoring.  Begin making decisions about which tiles to keep, which to discard and                         how to work toward a winning hand.

Session 3 - Strategy

                  Practice building your hand, making strategic decisions and adapting your play as the game                      unfolds.  By the end of the session, you will have the foundation to continue playing on your                      own.

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American - 4 weekly sessions, 2 hours each

Session 1 - Learn the Fundamentals

                   Get familiar with the tiles, table set up, the Charleston and basic flow of the game.  Learn                           how tiles are drawn and discarded and how the game comes together.

Session 2 - Build your Hand

                   Introduction to the National Mah Jongg League Card.  Understand how to read the card and                     the different categories of hands.  Begin learning how to choose a hand and build your tiles                       toward it.

Session 3 - Develop your Strategy

                  Put your knowledge into practice as you learn how to make strategic decisions, choose which                    tiles to keep or discard, and adapt your hand as the game unfolds.  ​

Session 4 - Put It Into Play

                   Bring everything together and play a game with guidance and support.  Practice reading the 

                   table, making decisions and adjust your strategy as the game develops.  By the end of the                         session, you will have the foundation to continue playing on your own.

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What to Expect

Come ready to learn, play and have fun.
Mahjong is best learned at the table, so you'll spend time playing, not just listening. We’ll introduce new concepts step by step, give you plenty of opportunities to practice, and be there to answer questions along the way. There’s no pressure to get everything right immediately. The goal is to learn, have fun and build confidence as you go.

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What's Next

Once you have completed this program, you're ready for our Open Play Sessions.  It's your opportunity to put your new skills into practice and play with others at a similar level. 

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