Mah Jongg in Scottsdale, Arizona
Planning a Mah Jongg weekend in Scottsdale or a game day with friends in Arizona? Get the tables, cards and travel pieces sorted before everyone arrives, so you can spend the time playing rather than looking for missing racks.
Count the tables before you pack.
Plan one playing setup for each four-player table. Count the people playing at the same time, not everyone joining the trip. These examples assume four players at every table.
- 4 players 1 table 1 tile set 4 racks
- 8 players 2 tables 2 tile sets 8 racks
- 12 players 3 tables 3 tile sets 12 racks
- 16 players 4 tables 4 tile sets 16 racks
What to bring for an Arizona Mah Jongg weekend
Put one person in charge of each table's equipment. Then send players a short list of what they need to bring themselves.
A tile set for each table
Check the playing tiles before leaving home. Keep each set together and store any spare tiles separately so they do not get mixed into the game.
Four racks and pushers
Bring one rack for each player at a manual-play table. Check the rack fit with the tiles you are taking, especially when switching to a larger tile size.
Dice and game accessories
Pack a pair of dice for each table, plus the wind indicator and scoring pieces your group uses. Keep small items in a separate pouch inside the set's bag.
The same card edition
Ask each player to bring the current NMJL card in their preferred reading size. Confirm the edition with the group rather than assuming the card comes with a tile purchase.
A mat, if you use one
A mat is optional, but can help protect the table and soften tile noise. Measure the playing surface first, with room for racks, cards and discards.
Storage and personal extras
Bring the bags or trays that fit your equipment. Players may also want reading glasses, a glasses cloth, a pen and a small notebook for learning or scores.
The National Mah Jongg League provides the official card and rulebook. For a quick introduction before the trip, share our How to Play guide.
Check the room and the equipment before the weekend.
A rental house, resort stay or club gathering can involve a different table from the one you use at home. Confirm the details with your host instead of relying on a room photo.
Make room for the game.
Ask about table dimensions, four comfortable chairs per table, lighting and an indoor playing area. For multiple tables, leave space for people to move between them.
Confirm permission to use the room, setup access and where the equipment can stay between sessions. Keep drinks and meals away from the playing surface where practical.
Choose tile size before color.
Our 30MM tile collection is a starting point for regular rack-based play. You can also play manually with 36MM tiles when your racks and storage accommodate them.
Using an automatic table? Confirm its model, required tile dimensions and construction with the owner. A 36MM label alone does not guarantee compatibility.
A little preparation leaves more time to play.
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Before the trip
Confirm player numbers, experience levels and who brings each set. Agree on the card edition and whether sessions are relaxed practice or timed play. Order any missing equipment with time to check it before departure.
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Before the first hand
Set out the racks, tiles and dice, then check that everyone has a card. Leave time for a practice hand when needed. Our Charleston guide is useful for reviewing the passing sequence together.
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When packing up
Count the tiles back into their own set and check for dice or accessories left under the table. Follow the tile care guide before storing pieces that need cleaning or drying.
Choose only the pieces your group needs.
Start with the equipment already available for the weekend. Add a complete set for another table, or replace individual pieces without buying everything again.
Complete sets
Bring the main pieces for manual play together. Check which accessories and storage come with each set.
Shop complete Mah Jongg sets30MM tile sets
Choose a tile-only set when your group already has the racks and other equipment it needs.
Shop 30MM tiles36MM tile sets
Explore larger Designer Series tiles. Match automatic-table specifications before ordering.
Shop 36MM tilesRacks and pushers
Compare wooden and acrylic rack styles, lengths and tile fit for the tables you are setting up.
Shop Mah Jongg racksPlaying mats
Choose a table mat or a design with Charleston reminders. Check the dimensions against your playing space.
Shop Mah Jongg matsBags and pouches
Keep each table's equipment and small items organized. Check size and intended use before choosing storage.
Browse bags and pouchesAdding a small gift for each guest? Browse Mah Jongg accessories and gifts separately from the main playing equipment.
Scottsdale Mah Jongg weekend questions
How many Mah Jongg sets do I need for a retreat?
Plan one playing setup for each four-player table in use at the same time. Eight players at two tables need two tile sets and eight racks. Include dice and the other pieces each table uses, and check what the venue or players are already providing.
Do all the tables need matching tiles, racks and mats?
No. Different tables can use different colors or styles. Keep each tile set together and make sure its racks fit. Labeling the bags by table or owner is a simple way to keep equipment from getting mixed up.
Can we use 36MM tiles without an automatic table?
Yes. You can shuffle, stack and play with them by hand. Check your racks, playing space and storage for the larger tiles. Automatic-table compatibility is a separate check against the requirements of that specific table.
What should each player bring?
Bring the NMJL card edition agreed on by the group, reading glasses if needed, and any personal items for a longer session. The host should confirm in advance whether anyone also needs to bring tiles, racks or a mat.
What should I confirm before booking a retreat or lesson?
Ask the organizer about dates, location, player level, instruction, equipment provided and what the booking includes. Check the cancellation terms directly with them. Use this page for equipment planning, not as an event schedule or a retreat reservation.
Need help putting the tables together?
Tell us how many people are playing, which tiles you use and what you already own. We'll help you compare the pieces for your game weekend.