1. Introduction

In this series, we break down the journey from beginner to intermediate into five steps so you always know what to learn next:

• STEP 1: Learn the Rules and Basic Mechanics
• STEP 2: Study Tile Efficiency Basics
• STEP 3: Build Your Offensive Fundamentals
• STEP 4: Develop Defensive Skills
• STEP 5: Gain Experience Through Actual Play

2. STEP 1 Overview

What you’ll learn: Understand the big picture of mahjong and prepare the minimum skills to start playing. Your first goal is to grasp the rules and get used to handling tiles and the table. Don’t worry about advanced tactics yet—just aim to complete a full game smoothly.

3. Basic Rules You Should Know

• Mahjong is a 4-player game where you form winning hands (yaku) with 14 tiles.
• Basic hand structure: 4 melds + 1 pair (melds = triplets or sequences).
• At first, focus on whether your hand qualifies for a yaku rather than perfect math.

Helpful references:

• Basic Rules of Japanese Mahjong fundamentals
• List of All Yaku with Tile Samples yaku list

4. Scoring Basics (Rough Understanding Is Enough)

• Recognizing common yaku matters more than exact point calculation at the beginning.
• Start with frequent yaku like Riichi, Tanyao, Pinfu.
• Use quick reference tables or apps during practice games.

Learn the overall play and scoring flow here: How to Play Japanese Riichi Mahjong

5. Automatic Tables & Tools

• With an automatic table, wall building and dealing are automated—just learn the basic operations.
• Practice handling dice and point sticks for smoother play.
• Online mahjong is great for learning the full round flow.

Related reading:

• Mahjong Turn Order and Player Roles
• Mahjong Dealer Role Explained

6. What Comes Next (STEP 2–5)

When STEP 1 feels comfortable, continue through the roadmap:

• STEP 2: Tile Efficiency Basics — Prioritize open waits, handle isolated tiles, improve speed.
• STEP 3: Offense Fundamentals — When to declare Riichi, smart calling (chi/pon/kan).
• STEP 4: Defense Skills — Identify safe tiles, avoid dealing into opponents’ hands.
• STEP 5: Practical Experience — Play many games, review mistakes, discover strengths.

By following these steps, you’ll advance from simply “being able to play” to actively winning with strategy.