FAQ

  • Mahjong is a classic Chinese game with a story as rich as its tiles. It landed in the U.S. in the 1920s and quickly stole hearts everywhere. The American version is played using the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) card, which sets out the winning hands for the year. At PDX Mahjong Club I teach NMJL rules, so you'll be learning the real deal from the very first hand — and you'll be able to sit down at any American Mahjong table in the country and play.

  • Start with Mahj 101! It's built for total beginners — no experience, no tiles, no idea what a bam is. If you've played a bit and want to build speed and confidence, Mahj 102 is your next step.

  • The tiles, the current NMJL card, the rules, and gameplay. By the end of class you'll know what everything on the table is, how the Charleston works, and how to build toward a hand. It's a warm, low-pressure room — I promise nobody expects you to be good yet.

  • Mahj 102 is for anyone who's taken 101 (or played a little) and is ready for more. We review the tiles and the card, then focus on the rhythm and flow of the game — reading the card faster, playing full games, and keeping up with all the NMJL rules.

  • Open Play is guided play for people who know the basics and just want table time. I'm there the whole session to answer questions, nudge you toward a hand, and help you play without overthinking it. Sips, snacks, and lots of laughing included.

  • Not at all. Plenty of people book solo and get seated with a group — that's honestly how most of my regulars met each other. And if you do want to come with your besties, grab them and book together.

  • Nope, not to take a class — everything you need is provided at the table. Once you're hooked (and you will be), I'm happy to point you toward good tile sets and help you get your own NMJL card, which is reissued every spring.

  • Yes — a few favorites! The shop carries the PDX Skyline mahjong mat, designed in collaboration with local Portland artist Brenna White. It's covered in the landmarks that make this city ours: Powell's, the White Stag sign, Mt. Hood, and the bridges over the Willamette. Gift cards are there too, starting at $55, which make a great nudge for the friend who keeps saying they want to learn. I don't stock tile sets, but I'm always happy to talk you through what to look for and where to buy — just ask me at class or send me a note. And you never need to own a thing to take a lesson; everything you need is waiting at the table.

  • Most public classes and Open Play sessions happen in Lake Oswego at The Grove Boutique and The Thirsty Caterpillar. I'm based in the Portland suburbs and I'm always happy to bring the game to your neighborhood, living room, or favorite hangout spot — if you don't see a class near you, send me a note. I adore creating new pop-up games.

  • Yes! Private sessions are one of my favorite things — birthdays, bachelorettes, girls' weekends, team events, or just you and your people around a table. Email me at jackie@pdxmahjongclub.com and we'll build something for your group.

  • Mahj 101 and Mahj 102 are $55 per person; Open Play is $35 per person. Book directly from the Upcoming Events section on the home page or the Book a Lesson page. Gift cards are also available in the shop starting at $55 — a great gift for the friend who keeps saying they want to learn.