Where to buy a mahjong set (and what to check first)
You can buy a mahjong set almost anywhere now, from warehouse clubs to boutique makers. The catch is that many sets on shelves are Chinese or Japanese sets that will not work for American mahjong.
Checked and updated October 31, 2026
Check these four things wherever you buy
- It says American. "Mahjong set" alone often means a Chinese set.
- At least 8 jokers and 8 flowers. Most American sets have 160 or 166 tiles. A 144-tile set is almost always Chinese. Tile counts explained.
- Racks with pushers included, or budget for them separately. About racks.
- Readable tiles with Western numerals in the corners, in a size that suits your table. Tile sizes.
Not sure about a listing? Run it through the set checker.
Online, from the makers
Buying direct from a mahjong brand is the most reliable way to get a true American set with a clear tile breakdown. Brands we track include Yellow Mountain Imports, Oh My Mahjong, My Fair Mahjong and Miss Mahjong. Compare their sets.
Big-box and warehouse stores
| Store | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Costco | Seasonal. Has carried a 166-tile Winning Solutions American set (spotted in December 2025, item 1851446) with tile trays and a tote. Check whether racks are included. |
| Sam's Club | Carries mahjong sets from time to time, including decorative and novelty sets. Confirm the set is American and count the jokers. |
| Walmart and Target | Mostly online marketplace listings from many sellers, American and Chinese mixed together. Read the tile breakdown. |
| Hobby Lobby, Barnes & Noble, Anthropologie | Gift and decor-led sets. Some are full American sets, some are not. Check the count before buying it as a gift. |
| Amazon | Huge choice, with many unbranded listings. Stick to established brands and check the breakdown. |
Store stock changes constantly. We list what to look for, not live stock.
Local shops and teachers
Many teachers and mahjong studios sell sets, racks and cards, and will tell you honestly whether a set suits beginners. If you are taking a class, ask your teacher before you buy. Find a teacher near you.
Used and vintage
Marketplace and estate sales are full of older sets. Many have too few jokers for today's game. What to know before buying a vintage set.
Common questions
Does Costco sell American mahjong sets?
Sometimes. Costco has carried American sets, for example a 166-tile Winning Solutions American Mahjong set (item 1851446) spotted by deal trackers in December 2025. Stock rotates, so check your warehouse or costco.com, and check the tile count before you buy.
Can I buy a mahjong set at Walmart or Target?
Yes, mostly through their online marketplaces, which carry many third-party sets. Read the listing carefully: search results mix American, Chinese and Japanese sets.
What should I look for in a mahjong set near me?
Make sure it says American, has at least 8 jokers and 8 flowers, and ideally includes four racks with pushers. Our set checker walks you through it.
How much does an American mahjong set cost?
Complete starter sets with racks start at about $70. Designer sets cost $375 to $450 for the tiles alone. See our comparison for current listed prices.
Sources: Costco97 deal listing for item 1851446; set specs and prices from the listings linked on each set page.