Scoring Sticks and Their Uses in Riichi Mahjong

Nothing captures the rhythm of Riichi Mahjong like the click of scoring sticks sliding across the table. These slim wooden or plastic bars—called tenbō (点棒)—record every win, loss, and comeback. A standard set includes 10,000-point sticks × 4, 5,000-point × 8, 1,000-point × 12, and 100-point × 20—typically totaling 30,000 points per player.

The red riichi stick (リーチ棒) carries its own tension. When someone places it forward to declare riichi, the air changes—suddenly, every tile draw feels heavier. Those sticks stay in the center until someone wins, waiting like a silent promise of reward.

Keep your sticks sorted by value before the game begins. Drawers or trays under the table prevent confusion and keep settlements smooth. The quiet choreography of passing sticks across the table is one of the subtle joys of Riichi Mahjong.

Point Chips and Dealer Markers

In official Riichi Mahjong, point sticks are used for all scoring. Chips are an optional accessory mainly for casual or friendly play—sometimes representing bonus points or small cash rewards, rather than a strict 1,000-point conversion.

Many home players enjoy using chips as “goshūgi” (congratulatory bonuses), giving a small extra reward for special hands like yakuman or double riichi. The sound of a chip sliding across the table after a big win might not affect the score—but it certainly adds satisfaction.

A dealer marker is a must-have, even for casual play. In home games without automatic tables, it helps everyone remember who’s East, keeping the round rotation smooth and the pace steady. It’s a small piece that brings a sense of order and ceremony to every match.

Dealer and East–South Markers

Riichi Mahjong flows through two great chapters: the East round and the South round. A round marker (bakaze mark) quietly indicates which chapter you’re in—and sometimes even which hand number. For long sessions or teaching games, it keeps everyone aligned in rhythm.

Many automatic tables display the current round digitally—for example, the AMOS series shows East/South winds with LED lights—yet players still often place a physical dealer marker to indicate the starting seat or current East. It’s a nod to tradition that makes every session feel connected to the roots of Japanese Mahjong.

Other Useful Accessories for Smooth Riichi Mahjong Games

• Dice and dice trays: Dice trays are sometimes used in home games to prevent tiles from moving, though parlors usually roll dice directly on the table.
• Wind indicators and turn trackers: A quick glance tells you the current wind and turn, avoiding confusion during heated games.
• Tile care tools: Keep a microfiber cloth nearby to remove dust or fingerprints from urea-resin tiles. Table covers help protect surfaces and maintain grip.
• Storage trays and cases: Organize sticks, chips, and markers for quicker setup and cleaner play.
• Quick-reference sheets: Yaku lists or payout charts give beginners confidence and make teaching smoother.

These small tools might seem simple, but together they turn an ordinary match into a polished experience—where everything feels precise, calm, and unmistakably Japanese.