What Counts as a Win in Riichi Mahjong

A winning hand must be complete and include at least one yaku. Without yaku, a hand has no value—even if fully formed. This makes Japanese Riichi Mahjong more strategic compared to other variants.

Basic Winning Requirements (4 Melds + Pair)

Most standard wins follow the four-sets-plus-one-pair structure. A set can be a sequence (three consecutive tiles in the same suit) or a triplet (three identical tiles).

Special winning shapes like Chiitoitsu (Seven Pairs) and Kokushi Musou (Thirteen Orphans) are valid exceptions.

Introduction to Yaku (Winning Hands)

Yaku are special conditions that make a hand valuable. Each yaku grants han, multiplying the score. Combining multiple yaku increases scoring exponentially.

One-Han Yaku (Tanyao, Riichi, Yakuhai)

• Tanyao (All Simples): A hand without terminals (1, 9) or honors.
• Riichi: Declare Riichi when one tile away from winning with a closed hand.
• Yakuhai (Value Tiles): A triplet of Dragons or the prevailing/seat wind.

Multi-Han Yaku (Chii Toitsu, Honitsu, Chinitsu)

• Chii Toitsu (Seven Pairs): A hand made of seven distinct pairs.
• Honitsu (Half Flush): One suit plus honors.
• Chinitsu (Full Flush): A single suit only.

Yakuman Hands (The Highest Level Wins)

Yakuman hands are the rarest but most rewarding. Examples include:

• Kokushi Musou (Thirteen Orphans): One of each terminal and honor plus one duplicate.
• Daisangen (Big Three Dragons): Triplets of White, Green, and Red dragons.
• Suu Ankou (Four Concealed Triplets): Four closed triplets.

Scoring a Yakuman can instantly swing a game in your favor.

Examples of Simple Wins for Beginners

Beginners should focus on easy yaku like Tanyao or Riichi. These appear often and teach efficiency. As you gain experience, you’ll spot chances for higher-value yaku like Honitsu or Chinitsu.

Conclusion

Winning in Riichi Mahjong is not just about finishing your hand—it’s about finishing with value. Learning and combining yaku is the key to consistent wins and bigger scores.