Frequently Asked Questions

  • Not necessarily! While the rules of American Mahjong can be found in print, the game’s true strategy lies in its nuances and the players ability to find their way around the card. An instructor from Sparrow & Mahj does more than teach the mechanics; we flatten the steep learning curve that often frustrates new players.

    By having an expert guide your first few games, you’ll learn all the details and etiquette of the game in an organized, absorbable sequence, allowing you to reach a level of confident, social play much faster.

  • At Sparrow & Mahj, we teach American Mahjong using the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) card and rules.

  • No. Whether you are booking a class, a hosted party, or a rental, we provide the current year’s official National Mahjong League cards for all participants to use during the event.

  • No. We provide a comprehensive, "white-glove" Mahjong experience that includes premium tile sets, mats, racks, pushers, and NMJL cards.

  • To ensure a relaxed yet productive experience, we generally recommend the following timeframes:

    • Instructional 101 & 102 Classes: These sessions typically run two and a half hours. This allows ample time for a deep dive into new concepts followed by hands-on practice without feeling rushed.

    • Open Play & Hosted Events: We recommend a two-and-a-half to three-hour window. This provides enough time for guests to settle in, complete several full rounds of play, and enjoy the social flow of the evening at a sophisticated pace.

    Of course, we are happy to tailor the duration to suit your specific event needs, whether it’s a condensed lunch-and-learn or an extended weekend tournament.

  • A standard card table (approx. 34" x 34") with four chairs is the ideal size for four players. We can adapt to dining tables or larger surfaces, provided each player has enough room to comfortably view their rack and enough light to identify the discarded tiles.

  • Item descriptionThe beauty of Sparrow & Mahj is our versatility; we bring the mahjong experience to you. The "best" venue is simply any space where your guests feel comfortable and engaged. 

    • Private Residences: A dining room or a spacious living area provides an intimate, relaxed atmosphere perfect for a social afternoon or game night.

    • Clubhouses & Community Rooms: These are ideal for larger mulit-table groups, offering plenty of square footage and easy setup.

    • Boutique Event Spaces & Cafes: For a more curated feel, local cafes, restaurants, tasting rooms, or private suites offer a sophisticated backdrop for a hosted game.

    Logistically, all we require is a flat surface for each table (a standard 34" card table or dining table with four chairs is perfect) and sufficient lighting so players can easily distinguish the tiles. We handle the rest, ensuring the setup integrates seamlessly with your chosen environment.

  • American Mahjong is traditionally played with four players per table. Sparrow & Mahj can accommodate multiple tables for larger game nights, date nights, parties or corporate events.

    Please contact us for a custom quote for groups larger than eight.

  • If you don't require a host, we offer 24-hour or weekend rentals of our premium tile sets. We handle the delivery and pickup; you simply provide the players and the tables and chairs. Our rentals include premium tile sets, mat, racks, pushers, and NMJL cards.