HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Mahjong is a tile-based game that originated in China over 100 years ago. It was created during the Qing Dynasty and became popular in the early 20th century.
The game spread to other parts of the world, including Hawaiʻi and the United States, where it has become a favorite pastime.
Mahjong made its way to Hawaiʻi in the early 1920s. Many Chinese immigrants brought the game with them, and it quickly became popular among locals.
Today, people of all ages enjoy playing Mahjong throughout Hawaiʻi.
The basic rules of American Mahjong are easy to learn.
The game is played with a set of 144 tiles, which are divided into different categories: Bamboos, Characters, Dots, Winds, Dragons, Flowers and Seasons.
Each player starts with 13 tiles and takes turns drawing and discarding tiles to create specific sets.
The goal is to be the first to complete a winning hand, called "Mahjong."
A winning hand usually consists of four sets of three tiles (either three of a kind or a sequence) and a pair of matching tiles.
Playing Mahjong helps develop problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Players need to plan ahead and make decisions based on the tiles they have and the tiles they see other players discarding.
This requires careful observation and quick thinking. By considering different strategies and anticipating your opponents' moves, players can improve their chances of winning.
Getting keiki (children) to play Mahjong can be a fun and educational experience. Here are some tips to get them interested:
- Start with the basics: Teach them the names of the tiles and how to recognize different sets. Make it a game to see who can identify the most tiles correctly.
- Play simplified versions: Begin with simpler versions of the game that use fewer tiles and have easier rules. As they become more comfortable, introduce more complex rules.
- Make it fun: Turn learning into a game. Use colorful tiles and exciting rewards for completing sets or winning rounds.
- Family time: Play together as a family. Kids are more likely to enjoy the game if they see adults having fun too.
- Educational benefits: Explain how playing Mahjong can help them with math skills, memory, and strategic thinking. Kids love to learn when they see the benefits.
- Join a club: Look for local Mahjong clubs or groups where kids can play with others their age. This can make the game more social and enjoyable.
If you're interested in learning to play mahjong or need people to play the game with, then check out these opportunities.
- Mahjong on Oʻahu: Click here for more information.
- Mahjong on Maui: Click here or here for more information.
- Mahjong on Kauaʻi: Click here for more information.
- Mahjong on Hawaiʻi Island: Click here for more information.
Mahjong is not just a game; it's a way to connect with friends and family, sharpen your mind, and have a great time.
Whether you're in Hawaii or anywhere else in the world, Mahjong can be a delightful addition to your daily activities.