A Comprehensive List of Names and Pictures of Mahjong Tiles

Mahjong is a traditional Chinese game that has captured the interest of players worldwide. The game is played with a set of tiles, each with its own unique design and significance. Understanding the different types of Mahjong tiles is essential for mastering the game. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive list of the names and pictures of Mahjong tiles, categorized into various groups for easy reference.

Key Takeaways

• Mahjong tiles are divided into several categories including Bamboo, Characters, Dots, Winds, Dragons, Flowers, Seasons, Jokers, Red Dragon, and Green Dragon.
• Each category of Mahjong tiles has its own unique design and significance in the game.
• Understanding the different types of tiles is crucial for mastering Mahjong and improving gameplay.
• The standard set of Mahjong tiles consists of 144 tiles, but some versions of the game may include additional tiles.
• This article provides a comprehensive list of Mahjong tiles with names and pictures for easy reference.

1. Bamboo

The Bams suit, also known as Bamboo or Sticks, is another category of tiles in Mahjong gameplay. The tiles in this suit depict illustrations of bamboo sticks (sou-zu) and are easily distinguishable by their unique appearance.

1.1 Overview

The Bams or Bamboos suit comprises tiles numbered from 1 to 9, with four copies of each tile, amounting to a total of 36 tiles. Interestingly, the 1st piece in the Bams suit often features a bird motif, commonly depicted as a peacock or sparrow. This adds a touch of artistic flair to the tile design and provides a visual distinction for the lowest-numbered tile in the suit.

1.2 Composition

Bamboo tiles are also known as 'soks' or 'bams'. There are 36 bamboo tiles in 4 identical sets of 9 tiles with one to nine bamboo stem engraved on them. Bamboo in Chinese is 竹zhú or else the 索子 'suǒzǐ suit' or 条 ‘tiáo suit’ or 'woven thread suit'. The '1' is usually a picture of a bird; often a sparrow 麻雀 máquè, by which the game is named in the south.

1.3 Variations

One of Bamboos which often is denoted by a sparrow or rice-bird and doesn't feature a bamboo at all. 1, 5, 7 and 9 of Bamboos are represented by a picture of both red and green bamboos. The other bamboo tiles are represented by green bamboos only.

Vintage bamboo mahjong tiles are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

2. Characters

The Characters suit, also known as Wans or Craks, is one of the three primary suits in Mahjong. This suit consists of 36 number tiles, divided into four identical sets of nine tiles. Each tile is engraved with the Chinese characters for the numbers 1 to 9, with the character for 万 (wàn) or its traditional form 萬 underneath each number.

Major and Minor Tiles

• The suit tiles numbered 2 - 8 are known as the "minor" tiles.
• The suit tiles numbered 1 and 9 are known as the "major" tiles.

Recognizing Characters

Character tiles are easily recognizable by their distinctive pattern of thin, horizontal lines resembling cracks on the surface. They are also referred to as "Craks" or "Characters" in certain game variations.

Importance in Gameplay

Characters, along with Circles and Bamboos, are known as "suits" in Mahjong. The Wind and Dragon tiles, on the other hand, are known as "honour" tiles.

In addition to the tiles, two dice are required. The 1 and 4 are red on traditional Chinese dice; the remaining numerals are black.

3. Dots

The Dots suit plays a vital role in forming sequences and sets, contributing to the creation of winning hands in Mahjong. By understanding the characteristics and patterns of the Dots suit, including the historical representation of coins or shields, players can develop strategies and make informed decisions during gameplay.

The Dots suit, also referred to as Wheels or Balls, is one of the three main categories of tiles in Mahjong. These tiles are distinguished by their circular shape and are commonly known as pin-zu, which translates to "wheels" in English.

Traditionally, the Dots tiles were represented as coins or shields in ancient times. Over the years, the design has evolved, and the circular shape of the tiles now resembles small wheels or balls. This transformation adds a visual element of interest to the Dots suit.

With its distinct circular shape and historical roots, the Dots suit adds depth and variety to the overall Mahjong experience. Mastering the intricacies of the Dots suit is an essential aspect of becoming proficient in the game.

The Dots suit encompasses tiles numbered from 1 to 9, with four copies of each tile, resulting in a total of 36 tiles.

4. Winds

The Wind tiles, collectively known as the 风牌 Fēngpái, are an essential part of Mahjong. There are 16 Wind tiles in total, divided into four identical sets of four tiles for each of the four wind directions: East, South, West, and North. These tiles are always listed in the following order: 东 (East), 南 (South), 西 (West), 北 (North).

East Wind

South Wind

West Wind

North Wind

The direction of the wind can give players bonus points. There are two types of winds:

• Seat Winds: These are the wind tiles that match the seat you are sitting in.
• Prevalent Winds: This is the wind of the round you are currently in.

A player gets increased bonus points if both winds are the same.

The pattern for Wind tiles begins with the East Wind and proceeds clockwise. A complete cycle is East --> South --> West --> North, before returning once again to East.

5. Dragons

Red Dragon

The Red Dragon, known as Hóngzhōng (红中), is denoted by a bright red character. It is one of the three Dragon tiles and holds strategic significance during gameplay.

Green Dragon

The Green Dragon, or fācái (发财), is represented by a bright green character. This tile is also crucial for forming specific combinations and sets, often carrying higher point values.

White Dragon

The White Dragon, known as Bái bǎn (白板), is traditionally a completely blank tile. However, some sets denote the White Dragon with a capital 'P', which stands for 'Pai', meaning white or pure.

These Dragon Tiles hold strategic significance during gameplay. They can be utilized to form specific combinations and sets, often carrying higher point values compared to the numbered suits.

Dragon Tile Patterns

The pattern for the Dragon tiles begins with the White Dragon, followed by the Green Dragon, and ending with the Red Dragon. A complete cycle is White --> Green --> Red, before returning to White.

Special Hands Involving Dragons

1. Big Three Dragons (Daisangen – 大三元): A triplet or quad of each type of Dragon tile.
2. Little Four Winds (Shousuushii – 小四喜): A hand consisting of three triplets/quads of Winds and a pair of the fourth Wind.
3. Big Four Winds (Daisuushii – 大四喜): A hand consisting of four triplets/quads of Winds.
4. All Honors (Tsuuiisou – 字一色): A hand composed exclusively of Wind and Dragon tiles.
5. Big Seven Stars (Daichisei – 大七星): A hand composed of seven specific tiles, including Dragon tiles.

6. Flowers

Mahjong sets typically include 4 Flower tiles. These tiles are numbered 1 through 4 and are optional in gameplay. When used, they provide bonus points upon being drawn. The depiction of the flowers varies significantly between sets, but the most common traditional representations are:

• Plum blossom
• Orchid
• Chrysanthemum
• Bamboo

Flower Tile Details

The Four Flowers are a beautiful addition to any Mahjong set. They are often intricately designed and can vary greatly in appearance. Despite their varied depictions, they are always a delightful part of the game.

In some sets, all non-joker bonus tiles are referred to as "flowers," even if they do not depict actual flowers. This can include tiles that represent different objects or symbols.

Bonus Points

Flower tiles are not just for show; they play a strategic role in the game. Drawing a Flower tile can give you bonus points, making them a valuable asset during play. The exact number of bonus points can vary depending on the specific rules of the Mahjong set you are using.

Variations

The depiction of Flower tiles can vary widely between different Mahjong sets. While traditional sets often feature the four flowers mentioned above, modern sets may include other designs. This variety adds an extra layer of interest and beauty to the game.

7. Seasons

Spring

The Spring tile often features illustrations of blooming flowers. This tile, like the other Seasons tiles, does not participate in forming sequences or sets. Instead, it is used for special purposes and bonuses.

Summer

The Summer tile typically showcases images associated with the summer season, such as the sun or beach scenes. It is distinct but matches with the other Seasons tiles.

Autumn

Autumn tiles usually depict falling leaves or harvest scenes. These tiles are unique but are part of the Seasons set, which is used for special bonuses.

Winter

Winter tiles often feature illustrations of snow or winter landscapes. Like the other Seasons tiles, they are used for special purposes and bonuses in the game.

Each Season tile is distinct, but all four Seasons tiles match with each other. Additionally, both the Flower tiles and Season tiles are associated with a specific wind.

8. Jokers

In contrast to Chinese Mahjong, American Mahjong sets are typically equipped with 8 Jokers, unique tiles that serve as versatile wildcards during gameplay. These tiles can be used to represent any other tile in the game, allowing players to complete sets and sequences more easily.

Usage and Flexibility

The inclusion of Jokers in American Mahjong adds a valuable element of flexibility and strategy to the game. They can be strategically utilized to create winning hands or adapt one's gameplay approach as the game progresses. It's important to note that the specific rules and usage of Jokers may vary depending on regional or house rules.

Unique Characteristics

Jokers are unique to American Mahjong and are not commonly found in other Mahjong variations. The Joker tiles are denoted by the image of a colorful jester or clown on the face of the tile. When a player declares a Joker tile, they must state the tile it is substituting for, and it must be used consistently for that tile throughout the remainder of the game.

The specific rules and usage of Jokers may vary depending on regional or house rules. Thus, it is essential to clarify their role and specific rules before commencing an American Mahjong game.

9. Red Dragon

The Red Dragon tile, known as 红中 (Hóngzhōng) in Chinese, is one of the three dragon tiles in Mahjong. It is denoted by a bright red character and is part of the set of 12 dragon tiles, which also includes the Green Dragon and the White Dragon.

Characteristics

• The Red Dragon tile is easily recognizable by its vibrant red color.
• It is one of the three "三元牌 Sān yuán pái" or "three scholars" tiles.

Role in Gameplay

• The Red Dragon tile can be used to complete a pung (a set of three identical tiles) or a kong (a set of four identical tiles).
• In Japanese Mahjong, the Red Dragon tile can act as a dora (a special tile that grants extra points).

The Red Dragon tile is essential for forming high-scoring hands and is often a sought-after tile during gameplay.

Cultural Significance

• In traditional Chinese culture, the Red Dragon symbolizes good fortune and prosperity.
• The tile is often associated with the concept of "red center," indicating its importance in the game.

Variations

• Some Mahjong sets may depict the Red Dragon with slight variations in the character's design, but the bright red color remains consistent.
• In some regional variations of Mahjong, the Red Dragon tile may have different rules or scoring implications.

10. Green Dragon

The Green Dragon tile is one of the three distinctive Dragon tiles in a traditional set of 144 mahjong tiles. It is denoted by a large and complicated green character, known as 發 (fācái), which means green fortune.

Characteristics

• The Green Dragon tile is easily recognizable due to its bright green character.
• It is part of the honor suits in mahjong, along with the Red and White Dragons.

Role in Gameplay

• The Green Dragon tile can be used to complete a hand containing all three Dragon tiles: White, Green, and Red.
• Collecting all three Dragon tiles in a hand can yield significant bonus points.

Cultural Significance

• In Chinese, the Green Dragon is referred to as 發財 (fācái), which translates to green fortune.
• The Dragon tiles, including the Green Dragon, are collectively known as 三元牌 (Sān yuán pái) or the three scholars.

The traditional set of 144 mahjong tiles includes three simple suits (stones, characters, bamboo), two honor suits (winds, dragons), and one optional suit.

Variations

• Some mahjong sets may have slight variations in the depiction of the Green Dragon tile, but the bright green character remains a constant feature.
• The pattern for the Dragon tiles begins with the White Dragon, followed by the Green Dragon, and ending with the Red Dragon. A complete cycle is White --> Green --> Red, before returning to White.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the diverse range of Mahjong tiles and their unique characteristics can greatly enhance your appreciation and proficiency in the game. This comprehensive guide has aimed to provide detailed insights into the various categories and designs of Mahjong tiles, supported by visual examples. Whether you are a novice or an experienced player, familiarizing yourself with these tiles will undoubtedly enrich your Mahjong experience. We hope this article has served as a valuable resource in your journey to mastering Mahjong.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mahjong?

Mahjong is a traditional Chinese tile-based game that is commonly played by four players. The game involves skill, strategy, and calculation, as well as a degree of chance.

How many tiles are in a standard Mahjong set?

A standard Mahjong set consists of 144 tiles, which include suits, winds, dragons, flowers, and seasons.

What are the main categories of Mahjong tiles?

The main categories of Mahjong tiles are Bamboo, Characters, Dots, Winds, Dragons, Flowers, Seasons, and Jokers.

How do the different categories of Mahjong tiles affect gameplay?

Each category of Mahjong tiles has unique characteristics and rules that affect gameplay. Understanding these categories is essential for mastering the game.

Are there different versions of Mahjong?

Yes, there are different versions of Mahjong, such as Chinese Mahjong, American Mahjong, and Japanese Mahjong. Each version has its own set of rules and tile variations.

What are the additional tiles in some Mahjong sets?

Some Mahjong sets include additional tiles like Spare Jokers, Spare Flowers, and Blacks, which provide enhanced options and versatility in gameplay.