Mahjong was banned in China at several points in the 20th century. Early restrictions focused on gambling. After the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949, a broad ban on gambling led to a decline in play. During the Cultural Revolution, from 1966 to 1976, the game itself was banned. Play returned afterward, and today it is a popular pastime in China and in Chinese-speaking communities around the world.
Early restrictions
Accounts from the early 20th century describe official efforts to limit the game, largely because of its association with gambling. Sources describe these efforts in less detail than later bans, and the rules likely varied by place and time.
After 1949
After the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949, a ban on gambling led to a decline in play. Since mahjong was closely linked with gambling, it became far less visible.
The Cultural Revolution
During the Cultural Revolution, from 1966 to 1976, the game itself was banned. It was seen as tied to the old society and to capitalist values. Sets were sometimes destroyed. Many people stopped playing in public, and some kept playing in private.
The return
After the Cultural Revolution, the game gradually returned to public life. Today, it is a favorite pastime in China and Chinese-speaking communities. Authorities still act against illegal gambling, which is a separate matter from playing the game itself.
Why it matters
These bans shaped how mahjong spread and how people feel about it. For some older players, the game holds memories of those years. Overseas Chinese communities, in places such as Hong Kong and in North America, also helped keep their own traditions of play alive.
A note on sources
Histories of these periods vary in detail. We have kept to what our sources say clearly. If you know a better source, please tell us.