Mahjong lessons: what they cost and how to choose one
A good beginner class is the fastest way into American mahjong. Here is what to expect, what it costs, and how to pick the right kind of lesson.
Checked and updated October 31, 2026
The kinds of lessons
| Format | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner class | One session of about two hours, in a small group | Trying the game |
| Beginner series | Three or four weekly sessions | Actually learning to play |
| Private lesson | A teacher comes to your home for your group, usually four to eight people | Friends who want to start a regular game |
| Guided open play | Practice games with a teacher on hand | The step after a class |
| Open play | Drop-in tables, no teaching | Players who know the basics |
| Online | Video lessons and apps with bots | Learning the card and rules between classes |
What lessons cost
These are prices published by the teachers and venues we have checked:
| Where | City | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor | Chicago | Mahjong 101 $80; Mahjong 102 guided play $70 |
| Holy Mahj | Chicago | North Shore beginner series $100 |
| Crak Queen Mahjong | Dallas | Learn to play $40; open play $15; private lessons from $350 for 2 hours (up to 8 people) |
| So Bam Fun | Dallas | Private lessons from $300 for 2 hours |
| Sparrow's Nest Studio | New York City | American beginner lesson $60; fundamentals lesson $40; table reservation $20 |
| Congregation Habonim | New York City | Open play free for members; $10 day / $15 evening for non-members (cash) |
| OK Let's Mahjong | New York City | First lesson $85 per person (4 players) or $70 (8 players) |
From each listing's own website, checked October 31, 2026. Prices change; confirm when you book.
What you will learn in a first class
- The tiles and what they are called. Preview them here.
- Building the walls and dealing.
- The Charleston, the tile swap before play.
- How to read the card and pick a hand.
- Calling, exposures and jokers, through practice hands.
Reading our how-to-play guide and trying the Charleston trainer beforehand makes a first lesson much less overwhelming.
How to choose a teacher
- Check the style. Make sure the class teaches American mahjong with the National Mah Jongg League card, unless you want another style.
- Small groups. Four to eight students per teacher is ideal.
- A next step. The best teachers offer guided open play or a follow-up class, so you keep playing.
- What is included. Ask whether the card, a cheat sheet or refreshments are included.
Find lessons near you
Not in one of these cities? Try your local library, Jewish community center, senior center or a mahjong shop. Many host or know of classes. More ideas.
Common questions
How much do mahjong lessons cost?
In the listings we have checked, a group beginner lesson costs about $40 to $85 per person, a multi-session beginner series around $100, and private lessons for a group from about $300 for two hours. Open play is often $10 to $20.
How many lessons do you need to learn mahjong?
Most people can play a slow but complete game after one two-hour beginner lesson. Many teachers recommend a series of three or four sessions, or a beginner lesson followed by guided open play.
What happens in a beginner mahjong class?
Usually: the tiles, building walls and dealing, the Charleston, how to read the card, and then playing practice hands with the teacher helping. Some classes include the card and a cheat sheet.
Do I need to bring anything to a mahjong lesson?
Usually not for a first lesson; the teacher brings sets. Many classes ask you to bring or buy the current National Mah Jongg League card. Check the class details.
Are there free mahjong lessons?
Sometimes. Public libraries, senior centers, Jewish community centers and synagogues sometimes run free or low-cost beginner sessions or open play. Some synagogue open play is free for members.
Can I take mahjong lessons online?
Yes. Several teachers teach over video, and apps with bots let you practise between lessons. Online works well for rules and the card; in-person classes are better for handling tiles and table habits.
Private or group mahjong lessons?
Group classes are cheaper per person and a good way to meet players. Private lessons, often at your home for a group of four to eight friends, go at your pace and turn your friends into a regular table.
What is guided open play?
Open play with a teacher circulating to answer questions. It is the usual next step after a beginner class.