What to Expect at Your First Mahjong Lesson (From Someone Who’s Been There)

So you’re Mahjong-curious, you’ve seen it popping up on socials, and you’ve finally said: “Alright, I’m in. Let’s do this.”

First of all - YAY! Second of all - I know that first step into a class (especially solo) can feel a little intimidating.

Maybe you’re thinking:

• “What if I don’t get it?”
• “What if everyone already knows what they’re doing?"
• “What if I look super lost?”

Wipe those worries off the table, dear friend. Because today, I’m walking you through exactly what to expect at your first Mahjong lesson - so you can show up with confidence, curiosity, and a whole lotta excitement.

First Things First: We Talk It Out

No one’s throwing you into the deep end here. At the start of your lesson, we go over what Mahjong is, what style we’re playing (in our case: American Mahjong), and what you’ll be learning that day.

It’s all laid-back and conversational. No pressure, no jargon, no confusing rules dumped on you. Just a cozy chat to get your bearings and calm those nerves.

You’ll Get to Know the Tiles

Those little beauties? They’re not as mysterious as they look.

I’ll walk you through:

• What each tile represents
• How to read them easily
• Tips to remember them without feeling overwhelmed

You’ll even get hands-on practice sorting, matching, and identifying tiles - with a few laughs along the way, promise.

We Start Simple - On Purpose

Here’s my philosophy: Mahjong should feel joyful, not stressful.

In your first lesson, we won’t cover everything at once (that’s a fast track to frustration). Instead, I’ll teach you just enough to get comfortable. Think:

• The basic flow of the game
• What a “hand” means
• How to read the National Mah Jongg League card
• And how to recognize patterns

By the end, you’ll have a real understanding of how the game works - and you’ll be surprised at how much you already remember.

You’re Not Alone - Even if You Come Solo

If you’re walking in without a group, you are so welcome here.

Most of my students are beginners. Some come with friends, but many walk in alone - and they leave with new Mahjong buddies. Because let’s be real: laughing, learning, and cheering each other on? It brings folks together faster than you’d think.

What You Won’t Find:

• No harsh critiques
• No rushing through the rules
• No judgment for asking “Wait - what’s a Charleston again?” (We love questions!)

You’ll find patience, encouragement, and a space where you can relax and learn at your own pace.

By the End of Your First Lesson…

You’ll leave feeling:

✅ More confident
✅ Less overwhelmed
✅ Totally surprised at how much you picked up
✅ Ready for your next session (because, it gets addictive real fast!)

Ready to Book Your First Lesson?

Whether you want to join a fun group class or gather your gal pals for a private session, I’ve got a spot for you.

Click here to view upcoming lessons and book your spot!

Warm tiles & smiles,
Gaia 💫
@master.your.mahjong 👈 follow for fun Mahjong tips & updates