I’m getting into mahjong. Here are the best mahjong gifts for the person eyeing a winning hand

Our featured picks

Something cozy for hours of strategic play

Uncommon Goods 'Mahjong Is My Favorite Sport' Sweatshirt

For family game nights

Bo and Mei Mahjong Together Set

Display-worthy decor from Hong Kong

Karen Aruba Art Travel Mahjong City Handcarved Mahjong

A treat (almost) too pretty to eat

Uncommon Goods Marzipan Mahjong Candy Gift Set

So they can take their tiles anywhere

Bam Bird Boutique Classic Travel Tile Set

If you’re like me, the first time you heard about mahjong was in a scene from “Crazy Rich Asians.” But it wasn’t until the end of last year that I noticed what Joanne Xu, one of the cofounders of New York City-based Green Tile Social Club, calls the “modern mahjong renaissance” unfolding rapidly in America, though it has long been ingrained in Asian culture. “Mahjong has always been cherished in many Chinese American families and households, a passed-down ritual from generation to generation,” said Xu, who first learned to play the game in the 2000s during a family summer vacation in Shanghai. More and more people around me are taking up the game, which inspired me to curate this guide to the best mahjong gifts.

With the rising interest in analog activities as AI infiltrates our daily lives, it’s no wonder the game is spreading like wildfire. “Mahjong is inherently a social game: You need four players to play, you vocally call your plays, you have to stay present and in tune with everyone else’s moves to shape your own,” Xu said. “Everyone shuffles the tiles together, everyone sets up together. It’s communal and joyful, and completely offline in a way that I think people of all generations are craving more than ever.”

In fact, over the last five years, Google search interest for “mahjong” has increased, peaking earlier this year. According to Etsy’s 2026 Spring Trends Report, the retailer has seen a 178% increase in mahjong set sales specifically with Gen Z consumers, compared to last year. To boot, studies have even shown that playing the game regularly can boost cognitive benefits, a major plus as many of us are focused on longevity.

So, with my newfound hobby and desire to connect more with my own Asian heritage, I present to you this mahjong gift guide. Below, you’ll find an assortment of presents handpicked by me, other mahjong players and teachers that’ll enhance your giftee’s game nights or cheekily remind them of their favorite activity around the house or in their wardrobe. Be warned: If you start dipping your toes in the mahjong water, you’ll understand why your friend always declines plans by saying, “Sorry, I can’t. I have mahjong!”

What is mahjong?

Mahjong is a four-player tile-matching game — it’s often compared to Rummikub — where the objective is to be the first person to assemble a winning hand. While I’ve only learned Hong Kong — the most widely played version — and American styles so far, there are many others you can try.

Regardless of which version you’re playing, the basic steps are similar. As with a card game, first everyone shuffles all the tiles face down in the middle of the table before building a wall of tiles in front of them (the number of tiles varies based on the style you’re playing). To start the game, the “East” player will go first and roll the dice to determine where to start breaking the wall and drawing tiles. For a more detailed explanation of all the intricacies of the game, I’ve been watching Viveca Chow’s easy-to-follow videos on Instagram.

Mahjong has three main suits, and each is numbered one through nine: bamboos, circles and characters. There are also non-numbered tiles, winds and dragons. One of the most notable differences between American and Chinese mahjong is that American style uses jokers. What constitutes a winning hand depends on the version you’re playing, which I’ll dig into later.

Best mahjong gifts

Yellow Mountain Imports Chinese Mahjong Set

CNN Underscored fashion and beauty editor Sophie Shaw, who's accompanied me to a couple of mahjong events lately, bought this travel-friendly set at Amazon that comes with a convenient case. "Disclaimer: It's pretty heavy, but any quality tiles will have some heft to them, and the set is definitely compact enough to bring along to a friend's house for game night," she said. "Since I'm a novice player, I appreciate that the set comes with detailed and clear instructions too."

Chop Suey Club Jelly Purple Tile Chinese Mahjong Set

According to Xu, "the most sought-after sets are handcarved in Hong Kong or passed down between generations of family," but because it's not always possible to get your hands on those, she recommends heading to Chop Suey Club if you're looking for your own set. Xu said Green Tile Social Club's inventory includes sets from an Etsy seller named Ping's Gifts (though there are currently no sets available) and Yellow Mountain Imports. "We like the former because the tiles feature Arabic letters and numbers (useful for people who can't read Chinese), and the latter for their slightly compact size (useful if you're playing in small spaces like NYC)," she said.

Bam Bird Boutique Classic Travel Tile Set

I received the tortoise version of this tile set last year before I even started playing mahjong, and I'm so glad I held on to it now that I'm invested in the game. These tiles are smaller and lighter than full-size ones (the set only weighs 2 pounds!), so they're easy to take anywhere. I can't wait to bring these up to my roof this summer, and the set is extra handy because it comes with a velvet case to make carrying the tiles a breeze.

Ponyflo Hats Mahjong Collection

I received this sporty baseball hat earlier this year when I attended a mahjong lesson hosted by Ponyflo and Mahjong Palace, a New York City-based group that teaches Hong Kong mahjong. If you've never heard of Ponyflo, the brand's claim to fame is hats that have an opening in the back for — you guessed it — your ponytail. There were a few other designs to choose from, but I gravitated toward the sports club vibe of this one. The founder and creative director of Ponyflo, Minsun Yoo, said this hat does more than save your hairstyle: "I’ve had people stop me on the street and say, 'You play mahjong? Me too! We should play together!' It instantly creates connections."

Uncommon Goods 'Mahjong Is My Favorite Sport' Sweatshirt

In 2024, sisters Clara and Hasie Sherman started So Bam Fun in Dallas to teach others how to play American mahjong. They've since expanded to New York City (and other states) since moving there. "For us, it’s been the most natural community builder," the Sherman sisters said. "We’ve watched total strangers sit down together and leave as friends. It creates this multigenerational, cross-industry, cross-background table that you don’t often get elsewhere."

While they've received a variety of covetable mahjong-themed gifts over the years, Clara called out this sweatshirt from Uncommon Goods that she received from her brother-in-law. Hasie's manager (from her full-time job) gifted her this version available on Etsy, if you're looking for more color options.

Deminely Floating Mahjong Table for Pool

I saw a similar mahjong table float at an event last year and thought it was one of the more innovative products I've seen (and I see and test a lot of things). This one has built-in nooks for tiles to keep them steady in the water and even drink holders to keep your margarita, beer or mocktail at the ready! This multipurpose accessory can also be used for dominoes or rummy, so they'll have plenty of reasons to pull it out during the summer.

Lingua Franca x The Mahjong Line 'Get Your Mahj On' Maxine Sweater

This luxe sweater is another one of Yoo's top recommendations. "It feels sophisticated while still being playful and whimsical," she said. "The option to personalize each sweater by selecting the embroidery color makes it feel unique. It’s also incredibly versatile; I can dress it up or down depending on the occasion." The fashion insider-approved brand has other styles including this dragon-adorned version.

Uncommon Goods Mahjong Tea Towel

I'm a sucker for a one-of-a-kind kitchen towel, and this one that's in my rotation is no exception. Adorned with all the symbols and motifs of mahjong, it's a foolproof gift for the person who's always hosting a game at their place. The Sherman sisters are also fans of this adorable tea towel, if you play American mahjong.

Zazzle 'Tears of the People I Beat at Mahjong' Coffee Mug

The Sherman sisters pointed out this mug as a humorous way to delight the extremely dedicated mahjong player. It's another whimsical gift Clara received from her brother-in-law that she said has become one of her go-tos for her morning brew.

Literie Calling for Mahjong Candle

When I did a callout on Instagram for mahjong gifts people adored, everyone kept recommending candles. I decided to try this one out for myself, and as someone with a candle addiction, I can confidently say this one is truly a standout. The sauvignon blanc and white peach notes are subtle and fresh, and the scent oddly reminds me of walking past someone who just washed their hair. Whether they light this candle during their next mahjong night or use it daily to remind them of their favorite new hobby, it's guaranteed to make them smile.

The Sherman sisters also love lighting up this mahjong candle from Hotel Lobby, which boasts notes of sandalwood and leather, so it may be better suited for someone who prefers more masculine scents.

Furbish Mahjong Needlepoint Pillow

I own a couple of Furbish's iconic personality-packed pillows that match my sense of sarcasm and garner compliments (and laughs) from guests. Naturally, the brand is always on top of trends and has this mahjong-themed pillow that's perfect to put out on the couch next time they're hosting mahjong night. The Sherman sisters are also fans of Furbish's mahjong pillows.

Bo and Mei Mahjong Together Set

If you're looking for a gift idea for the mahjong lover with kiddos, Bo and Mei's family-friendly set comes recommended by Kathy Wise, editor of Mähj the Magazine. It features five levels of play, working up to the full 14-tile version, and comes with an illustrated booklet to make learning the game more fun for little ones.

Wise, who has been playing the game for nearly 30 years, said playing is one of her most cherished times of the week, and the benefits go beyond social interaction (though that is still certainly important). "A psychologist I interviewed recently told me that when women show up to play mahjong, they’re not just playing a game; they’re practicing resilience," she said. "They’re learning to trust their decision-making and take risks. You might make a mistake, but it’s not the end of the world. There’s always another hand, another opportunity." And that's an important skill for all ages to learn!

Karen Aruba Art Travel Mahjong City Handcarved Mahjong

If you know someone looking to incorporate the essence of the game in their home's decor, Wise pointed me to this stunning set of six handcrafted tiles made by Karen Aruba, a self-taught artist in Hong Kong. Aruba was inspired by her family's roots in the mahjong manufacturing business and wanted to marry the traditional art with a modern touch. Note that these aren't real mahjong tiles you play with; they are meant to be displayed and admired.

Susan Shaw Bird Bam Mahjong Pearl Bracelet

Jewelry is a common gift idea to commemorate new chapters or milestones, and I think learning something new falls into that category. Samantha Murphy, deputy editor of Mähj the Magazine, recently discovered this collection of 24-karat-gold-plated pieces. If this bracelet isn't their style, the line includes a variety of necklaces and a bracelet that's entirely gold.

Bam Bird Boutique Solo Mahj Board

I have my eye on this solo-learning tool, as I'm still trying to find a regular group to play with. Because it's a newer concept, I wasn't sure how to use it, so I reached out to Bam Bird Boutique and consulted this video to learn how it works. The first thing you'll do when playing mahjong alone is draw 13 tiles and arrange them by suit in front of you as you would normally. Then you'll use the board to simulate the Charleston, which is a tile-passing process exclusive to American mahjong and done before starting the game. The goal of this process is to trade tiles with the other players so you can get an advantage before starting the game. (Instead of passing with other people, you'll simply place the tiles on the board with the letters and numbers corresponding to the types of passes you'd make when doing the Charleston.) After completing these passes, you'll analyze what tiles you now have in your hand, then determine which hand you want to go for on the American mahjong card. Next, you'll draw and discard tiles — from either a bag or directly from a pile on the table — until you either win mahjong or you fill up all the spots on the board with discard tiles. Murphy has a different board from Solomahj on her wish list.

Oh My Mahjong Luna Playing Mat

If they already have tiles, they might not have all the accessories yet, like a mat. Yoo gives this mat her stamp of approval, which will protect whatever surface they're playing on while elevating the ambiance. “Mahjong is such a sensory game — from the sound of mixing the tiles to the feel of them in your hands," she said. "A good nonslip mat is essential for a smooth game. When it also has a cute graphic design, it makes the entire mahjong setup even more enjoyable."

Uncommon Goods Lucky Mahjong Hair Clip

I own the bag charm version of this hand-painted hair clip, and I couldn't think of a more unique yet practical gift for someone who can't concentrate with hair in their face (that's me). Next time they win while wearing this playful accessory, they'll have you to thank!

My Fair Mahjong Mahjong Tote Bag

Whether they need a convenient way to store all their mahjong accessories at home or on the go, Yoo recommends picking up one of these oversized totes perfectly made to hold everything from their tiles to a mat. In addition to handles, it boasts a crossbody strap for hands-free carrying.

Uncommon Goods Marzipan Mahjong Candy Gift Set

I recently tried this box of 12 marzipan candies designed to look like traditional mahjong tiles. It took me weeks to open them because they were so stunning that I didn't want to destroy them. Luckily, temptation won, and at first bite, I knew these were going to be dangerous to have all to myself. These handcrafted delicacies (yes, each one is intricately drawn by hand!) are a must-have for any mahjong party spread.

How to choose the best mahjong gifts

Like with any hobby-related gift, you want to first ensure the recipient is actually passionate enough about the activity to want items themed around it. If you’ve confirmed they’re dedicated to the hobby, you’ll now want to consider how long they’ve been playing.

For example, if they’re a beginner, they might not even have their own tile set, so that’s a no-brainer option (it will also remind them of you every time they pull it out to play) if you can splurge on a gift. However, I would caution against spending a pretty penny on a tile set if you’re not sure they’re 100% committed to playing, since you’ll be spending upwards of $100 or more. If they’ve been playing for years like the Sherman sisters, you’ll need to think a little more outside the box, as they likely already own the basics you need to play. Any of the more unique gift ideas, like the marzipan candies, tea towel or really anything from Uncommon Goods’ mahjong selection, are thoughtful ideas for more experienced players.

You could also select ambiance-boosting items that’ll come in handy when they’re hosting a game at their home. Think: candles, decor, chic new wine glasses — anything to make entertaining feel special. Ultimately, consider what they need (hint: listen to anything they specifically mention they have their eyes on in passing) and their other interests and likes when picking out a gift for the mahjong lover.

FAQs

Where did mahjong originate?

Mahjong is widely believed to have originated around 200 years ago near Shanghai, later making its way over to America and other parts of the world. According to Annelise Heinz, a historian at the University of Oregon and author of “Mahjong: A Chinese Game and the Making of Modern American Culture,” there are over 40 versions around the world. “Each has its own history of adaptation, and each has its own keys to a winning strategy,” she said.

I’d be remiss not to acknowledge the current headlines surrounding the debate of modernized versions, especially as the original tile artists in Hong Kong are being phased out. While it’s inspiring to see so many people wanting to connect over the game, it’s critical we give credit where credit is due: Mahjong is a Chinese game, and we should honor its history no matter which style you’re playing.

What are the differences between American-style and Hong Kong-style mahjong?

American mahjong took off when a group of women in New York City started the National Mah Jongg League in 1937 to standardize play in the US. Since its inception, the organization creates a new card of winning hands each year (that you have to purchase for $14), which is intended to keep things fresh and more challenging, especially if you’re someone playing multiple times a week. To win American mahjong, you must assemble a winning hand listed in this card, which is the biggest differentiation from traditional Chinese mahjong.

Hong Kong style is generally more flexible and does not have a standardized card of winning hands like American mahjong, which is why I think it can be easier to pick up. In Hong Kong style, all you need to win is one pair and four sets (melds) made of pongs (three identical suits or honor tiles) and chows (three of the same suit in numerical order) to equal 14 tiles.

Just keep in mind that while there are standard rules for each style of mahjong, at the end of the day, people can make up their own house rules, so make sure your group is aligned on the terms before you start drawing tiles!

How do I learn to play mahjong, and which style is best for beginners to play?

While I first took an American mahjong lesson with So Bam Fun earlier this year, I wish I’d started with Hong Kong style because it was a bit more straightforward without having to follow a specific card of winning hands. Referring to Hong Kong mahjong, Xu said another benefit is that “its rules are pretty transferable to a host of other Asian styles, including national variations like Filipino and Taiwanese, and regional Chinese variations like Sichuanese and Fujianese.”

That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy American mahjong, but I also think it’s important to first learn the origins of the game by playing the traditional version first. However, once I get more comfortable with Hong Kong style, I might try dabbling back into American mahjong to mix things up.

There’s an extensive list of nuances and rules of the game that would be impossible to explain properly here, so if I’ve piqued your interest in the highly addictive game, I recommend finding a local mahjong group that can teach you in person. “Learning any strategy-based game can be overwhelming at first, but that’s also why clubs like us now exist around the country. We’re really proud to be part of a generation of Asian Americans who are so open and caring and nurturing with our culture,” Xu said.

As mentioned earlier, if you live in New York City, there’s Green Tile Social Club and Mahjong Palace if you want to learn Hong Kong-style mahjong. If you’re looking for American style, So Bam Fun has a growing list of locations around the country. Otherwise, I recommend checking out your favorite bars or cafés; a lot of my neighborhood spots are hosting mahjong nights now.

Do you get a prize when you win mahjong?

In casual play, you don’t win anything, just the joy of showing off your winning hand and spending time with others! However, more serious players use a points system and money can be involved.

Meet our experts

For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights:

• Annelise Heinz, a historian at the University of Oregon and author of “Mahjong: A Chinese Game and the Making of Modern American Culture”
• Samantha Murphy, deputy editor of Mähj the Magazine
• Clara and Hasie Sherman, cofounders of So Bam Fun
• Kathy Wise, editor of Mähj the Magazine
• Joanne Xu, cofounder of New York City-based Green Tile Social Club
• Minsun Yoo, founder and creative director of Ponyflo

Why trust CNN Underscored

CNN Underscored editors carefully curate each gift guide to include a selection of products tailored to the person you’re shopping for. Among the gift ideas included in this guide are products hand-tested by our team, foolproof presents we’ve given (or have been given) ourselves, new products from our favorite brands and trending items taking over our social feeds. Our aim is to inspire you to gift creatively by presenting you with gifts you may not have seen or considered (but if you’re seeing some repeat products in our guides, it probably just means we really love them).

For this article, CNN Underscored senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus, who started playing mahjong recently, asked mahjong teachers, historians and players about the explosion of the game’s popularity, along with their favorite mahjong-themed gifts. She also included a few of her favorite finds that she loves as a newcomer to the game.

Some information for this report was gathered via edition.cnn.com.