The main difference between American and Chinese mahjong sets is that American sets add 8 jokers, for 152 tiles, and they usually come with racks. Chinese sets have 144 tiles and no jokers. American tiles also often have corner numbers and Latin letters, and some sets add other marks to help you read them. Chinese sets can be larger, and they often have no Latin markings.
Side by side
| Feature | American set | Chinese set |
|---|---|---|
| Tiles | 152 | 144 |
| Jokers | 8 | None |
| Flowers and seasons | 8, all called flowers | 4 flowers and 4 seasons |
| Corner numbers | Usually | Sometimes |
| Racks | Usually included or expected | Usually not used |
| Tile size | Often smaller | Often larger |
Can I use a Chinese set for American mahjong?
You would need 8 more tiles to act as jokers. Some people add joker stickers to spare or blank tiles. It works, but those tiles should stay easy to spot. You will also want racks, which sit better with tiles of the right size.
Can I use an American set for Hong Kong or Riichi?
Yes, by leaving tiles out:
- For Hong Kong, set aside the 8 jokers, and you have 144 tiles.
- For Riichi, set aside the jokers, flowers, and seasons, and you have 136 tiles.
If your set’s flowers are not numbered, seat-matching in Hong Kong games may be harder, so check that first.
Japanese Riichi sets
Riichi sets are often sold on their own. They have 136 tiles, sometimes extra tiles for red fives, and sticks for keeping score. Tiles in these sets are often smaller.
Common mistakes
- Buying a 144-tile set for an American game. You will be short of jokers.
- Buying without checking the count. Sellers do not always say. Ask.
- Assuming flower tiles are all the same. Some older sets differ. Count them.