RIICHI MAHJONG (Article 165)

Riichi mahjong requires each player to gather four sets (three in a sequence [chi] and/or three of a kind [pon] or four of a kind [kan]) and a pair to win. There are exceptions to this rule with pair hands and, of course, 13 Orphans. One of the things that makes this game unique is the use of red 5s and Dora tiles that can add point multipliers (han) to the winning hand. Another differentiator is being able to declare ready to win (riichi), which raises the value of the hand and allows an additional wager. However, if a player discards a tile that would complete their winning hand, they are in a furiten state, which means they are not allowed to win with that tile, even if they would otherwise be able to. House rules may vary slightly, and a 1-2 yaku (valued set or combination) minimum is typically required to win. This style has surprise and strategic elements that make it exciting, and it is quickly gaining worldwide popularity.

In most mahjong versions, the object of the game is to be the first to complete a winning hand. In Riichi, you start with points and the object of the game is to be in first or second place by taking points (e.g., point sticks; tenbou) from your opponents while keeping your own.

You can take points in three ways,

1. Take points by winning a hand with a valid component or composition (e.g., yaku)
2. Take points by being ready to win (e.g., tenpai) in a draw with one or more unqualified opponents (e.g., noten)
3. Take points by happenstance when an opponent makes a terrible mistake (e.g., chambo).

Game Plan

The game is played in two rounds, East and South.

The East Round sets the tone for the entire game, offering a crucial window to build momentum and establish your position. Early wins can create a point buffer, while early losses can put you on the defensive for the rest of the match. It’s a time to gather information, take calculated risks, and seize opportunities—without overextending. Asking “Is it East?” reminds you that while the game is just beginning, every decision now shapes what’s possible later.

The South Round is the final stage of the game, making it a critical moment for strategic judgment. Whether you’re aiming to climb the leaderboard or protect a lead, this phase often calls for bold plays or careful defense. Asking “Is it South?” is a quick mental check—your last chance to weigh the risk and reward of pushing or folding with the outcome on the line.

If You’re the Dealer (East): As the dealer (e.g., in name only; DINO), focus on building a strong hand quickly to take advantage of the 1.5x points bonus. Push for higher-value hands but avoid unnecessary risks. Since you can repeat hands (renchan) if you win, balance assertiveness with control, and always watch your opponents’ actions (e.g., discards, exposures) with each decision.

If You’re Leading: Focus on defense to protect your points, folding when necessary. Avoid risky plays but stay active and take advantage of safe opportunities. Keep an eye on your opponents, especially the dealer, to minimize risks while maintaining your lead.

If You’re in the Middle: Look for opportunities to catch up without overcommitting. Balance offense and defense, pushing for wins while protecting yourself. Watch the dealer and leader for chances to take advantage of their mistakes.

If You’re Behind: Take risks to catch up, focusing on big wins by stacking yaku and leveraging dora. Be assertive but consider folding to minimize losses. Every opportunity to score counts, so don’t worry about winning with a low value hand.

If It’s South Round (Final): Adjust your strategy based on your position (e.g., first, second, third, fourth; compare tenbou stack, scores). If you are behind, focus on opportunities to take points; if you are ahead, focus on defense. Use your knowledge of the game to make calculated decisions that can improve your position.

Assess your position early and often. Recognize turning points. Use each phase of the game to reassess and adjust.

How to Keep your Points

In Riichi Mahjong, “push-fold judgment” refers to the decision-making process a player uses when deciding whether to push (continue playing assertively to win) or fold (play defensively to avoid dealing into a big hand), particularly when:

• Another player has declared riichi.
• There’s visible danger on the table (open melds, discards, etc.).
• You’re in tenpai (one away from winning) or near-tenpai and facing risk.

Use perception (situational awareness, social acuity) and logic (critical thinking) to assess your potential to win and take calculated risks to do so. Weigh your hand’s value against the discard risks to decide whether to fold and defend or push to win, always keeping the object of the game in mind.

Riichi Mahjong Quick Reference Guide On-Ramp

With Yaku Table, Scoring Overview, and Beginner-Friendly Phases

This Riichi Mahjong Quick Reference Guide is designed as a practical companion for new players learning the game. Whether you’re just starting out or need a refresher during play, this guide simplifies the essentials of Japanese Mahjong with a clear, visual layout and easy-to-follow structure.

The guide is organized into two learning phases to support gradual mastery:

Phase 1: Fundamentals for Hand Building and Riichi Play

• Learn the basic game flow, tile sets, and terminology.
• Understand how to form a valid hand, recognize common waits, and declare Riichi.
• Includes a curated Beginner Yaku Table with easy-to-remember combinations to build confidence and reach winning hands faster.
• Highlights key etiquette and defensive play concepts to help beginners avoid costly mistakes.

Phase 2: Scoring and Strategy Advancement

• Introduces the full Yaku Table with point values and winning conditions.
• Breaks down the Japanese scoring system with examples for both dealer and non-dealer wins.
• Explains Dora, Fu calculation, and multipliers in a simplified format.
• Adds nuance to defensive and offensive decisions, including folded play and risk assessment.

Perfect for casual games, league play, or self-study, this reference is formatted for quick lookups and easy memorization. Start with Phase 1 to build a solid foundation, then advance to Phase 2 to sharpen your strategic edge and play like a pro.

In Riichi mahjong, success comes from sharp decision-making, balancing risks, and staying aware of both your position and the phase of the game. Whether you’re ahead, behind, or in the middle, adapt your strategy and keep your eyes on the object of the game… if you can’t win, don’t lose.

Check out the helpful resources below to deepen your understanding, sharpen your player style, and protect your points like a pro.

Tools

Tile Efficiency Trainer