Mahjong Tiles

One of the most frequent questions I’m asked anytime I share mahjong content is “Can you recommend a set of mahjong tiles?”

When it comes to purchasing mahjong tiles, there are a variety of options depending on your budget and personal preferences.

I’ll share a few tile set recommendations, along with some of my favorite accessories too!

But first, if you’re wondering what mahjong even is…

What is Mahjong?

American Mahjong is a variation on the Chinese game Mahjong and is a game of strategy, skill, and luck. Typically played by four players seated around a table (you can also play with 2 or 3 players), the game involves drawing and discarding tiles to complete a specific hand based on the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) rules. The first player to match a hand of 14 tiles wins the game!  

Mahjong Tiles and Accessories

To play Mahjong you will need:

• Mahjong Tiles: Mahjong tile sets can vary in the number and types of tiles included, but most American Mahjong sets feature 152 standard tiles. These core tiles consist of three suits (Dots, Bams, and Cracks), along with Winds, Dragons, and Flowers. Many sets also include additional tiles such as Jokers and blanks. Players often establish “house rules” about whether to incorporate these extra tiles, offering flexibility and personalization to the game.
• 2 Dice: Dice are optional and can be used to determine the dealer, as well as to determine where the dealer will break the wall. If playing without dice, the player sitting in the east chair is the dealer.
• 4 National Mah Jongg League Cards: The NML publishes a playing card annually with new Mahjong hands and scores. Each player uses a card as reference for building hands and creating strategy. The back of the card also contains a summary of the rules.
• 4 Racks & Pushers: A rack and pusher is assigned to each player to hold their hand of tiles. Pushers are “arms” that attach to each person’s rack and are used to curtsy the tiles when ready to play. 
• Mahjong Mat: Optional but recommended, a mahjong mat is a fun way to add flare to your game and helps reduce the noise from tiles hitting the table.

Mahjong Tiles

Here are a few great options depending on your budget and style preference:

American Mahjong Tile Set from Amazon: If you’re looking for an affordable and functional mahjong tile set, Amazon offers a wide range of budget-friendly options (including this tile set and this tile set). These sets include 166 tiles along with racks, pushers, dice, an NMJL rule card, and carrying bag. While they may not have the intricate designs of high-end sets, they are perfect for beginners or casual players. The tiles are durable and easy to handle, and you can find sets with a variety of styles and colors to suit your taste.

Middle & Main Mahjong Tiles: For a more elevated experience, I highly recommend this beautifully designed line created by one of my girlfriends down in Charleston! This collection includes two South Carolina-inspired mahjong sets (Charleston Tiles and Palmetto Tiles) and a Florida-inspired mahjong set (Sunshine Tiles).

As a proud native Floridian, I am partial to my Sunshine Tiles! Inspired by the vibrant warmth of Florida, this set features hand-painted, high-gloss tiles made from durable white acrylic. The attention to detail in the design sets it apart, with each tile reflecting a sense of craftsmanship and style. These tiles are perfect for avid players who want to invest in a set that not only functions well but also serves as a beautiful conversation piece. The Sunshine tiles, currently available for pre-order, come in a stunning embroidered storage bag, adding an extra touch of elegance to your Mahjong game​. *Use code CAROLINACHARM10 for 10% off your order.

Other Mahjong Tiles: Mark & Graham / Oh My Mahjong

Mahjong Accessories

Alright friends, let’s talk about leveling up your Mahjong nights with some fun and fabulous accessories! Sure, the tiles are important, but the real magic is in the extras.

First off, grab yourself a chic acrylic display box—not only does it protect your tiles, but it looks so sleek on the table. For the longest time, I used this inexpensive acrylic dryer sheet holder to display my tiles on my coffee table, even though this box does not fit all the tiles and has some gaps. For a high-quality box with a perfect tile fit, get the Middle & Main custom acrylic box! It is heavy, beautiful and elegant. *Use code CAROLINACHARM10 for 10% off your order.

Then there’s the Mahjong mat—total game-changer for a quiet and smooth playing surface, and it just feels more official. This is the mat I have which my friend McKinsey monogrammed for me using her Cricut machine.

I also LOVE my silly but incredibly useful tile grabbers for reaching far-away tiles, and, of course, cute themed napkins are a must for setting the vibe (or make for great hostess gifts)! Trust me, with these little touches, your game night will be as stylish as it is fun! *Use code CAROLINACHARM10 for 10% off your order.

Mahjong FAQ

Answering a few questions I often receive:

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