Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Level 0 starts from absolute zero, so even if you have no idea what the 144 Mahjong tiles are, that is completely fine. We will guide you through it step by step.

We teach Hong Kong Mahjong — the style traditionally played in Hong Kong. Other Mahjong styles may look familiar, but the rules, scoring and terminology can be quite different.

Not at all. You do not need to read Chinese or speak Cantonese to learn with us. We explain the characters and traditional Mahjong terms as you go — you may even pick up a little Cantonese along the way.

The online course is currently available in Chinese and English, with more languages to come later. Our physical classes are currently taught in English — one table, one shared language makes life easier.

In about one hour, you can already start playing a full 13-tile hand. In around three hours, you can try all four rounds. Your first “Sik!” may come sooner than you think.

Hong Kong Mahjong uses a 3-fan minimum, so your hand needs at least 3 fan before you can Sik. What is fan and how do you count it? We will teach you step by step — no wall of rules on day one.

Yes. All of our online courses are free. Level 0 and Level 1 do not require registration; from Level 2 onwards, simply register as a Mahjong Academy student for free and keep learning.

Because watching is not the same as learning. Videos explain the idea, quizzes check whether you understand it, and games make you actually use it. At a real Mahjong table, there will be no A, B, C or D waiting for you.

Yes. The course works on mobile, tablet and computer, so you can keep learning wherever you are.

No. Level 0 and Level 1 are open to everyone, and your progress is saved on the device you are using. From Level 2 onwards, you will need to register for a free student account.

Yes, once you register as a Mahjong Academy student. Your progress will then follow your account. Without registration, it stays on the original device.

Absolutely. If you already play Riichi, American, Taiwanese or another style, you will probably recognise quite a lot — but Hong Kong Mahjong has its own rules, scoring and way of playing. You may have a head start, but there will still be a few surprises.

If you are new to Mahjong, we recommend starting from the beginning. Already know how to play? Try our Mahjong Challenge first — we will test what you know and recommend the best level for you.

We are currently organising our first physical classes and workshops in the UK. Dates and locations will be announced on our website and social media once confirmed. Want to know when the next table opens? Follow us or join our mailing list.

The online course lets you learn at your own pace. Physical classes let you handle real tiles, ask questions and practise with other learners. The best combination is simple: learn the ideas online, then bring them to the Mahjong table.

Not at all. Complete beginners are exactly who our beginner classes are for. You do not need to know the rules or recognise Chinese characters. Every Mahjong player once picked up a tile and thought, “Right... what do I do now?”

Of course. You do not need to find three other people — we will arrange the tables for you. One of the nicest things about Mahjong is arriving as strangers and leaving with a few new friends.

Our unofficial range is 8 to 108. Chris and Carina both started learning at eight. For now, our physical classes are mainly for adults, but we hope to create dedicated classes and activities for young players in the future.

No. We provide the Mahjong sets and everything you need for the class. Just bring yourself — and a little curiosity.

Absolutely. We are always happy to explore ways to bring Hong Kong Mahjong into schools, universities and local communities. This could be a workshop, beginner session, cultural activity or something designed especially for your group. Tell us a little about who you are, where you are and what you have in mind, and we can see what might work.

Mahjong Academy started with one simple idea: Mahjong is more than a game. It carries history, language, culture and human connection. If you would like to know who we are and how this journey began, visit Our Story.

If it is, we probably need to ask: what age officially counts as old? Mahjong involves strategy, memory, observation and human interaction. It is not an old person’s game — it is a game you can enjoy from young to old.

Mahjong itself is a game. Gambling is simply something some people choose to add to it. At Mahjong Academy, we teach Mahjong without gambling and help people rediscover its culture, strategy, social side and simple joy.

You can find us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, or contact us by email. Whether you are a learner, Mahjong player, school, community organisation or simply a little curious, you are always welcome to get in touch.