What Does “Calling” Mean in Mahjong?

In Riichi Mahjong, “calling” is the act of taking another player’s discard to complete your own set. It accelerates hand completion but exposes your strategy and may reduce scoring options.

Pon (Triplets)

Pon is claiming a discard to complete three identical tiles. Announce “Pon” and place the set face-up. Useful for Yakuhai (Dragon or Wind triplets) and quick defensive wins.

Chi (Sequences)

Chi is calling a discard from the player on your left to make a straight of three numbers in the same suit. It helps efficiency but reveals your hand’s shape and limits your defense.

Kan (Quads) and Dora Indicator

Kan is forming four of a kind. Types include closed Kan, open Kan, and added Kan. Declaring a Kan reveals a new Dora indicator, increasing potential points but also helping opponents.

When to Call and When Not To

• Call when: Aiming for quick yaku like Tanyao or Yakuhai, or to block an opponent’s hand.
• Avoid calling when: You could declare Riichi or want to keep more scoring flexibility.

Beginner Mistakes with Tile Calling

• Over-calling, leading to a hand without yaku.
• Settling for small wins instead of aiming higher.
• Declaring unnecessary Kans that benefit opponents more than you.

Conclusion

Calling tiles is powerful but risky. Pon, Chi, and Kan can speed up wins but limit flexibility. Knowing when to call—and when to wait—separates beginners from strong players.