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MAHJ — Lesson 5

The Charleston

The trading ritual that makes American Mahjong unique

Goal: Understand the Charleston sequence — directions, blind passes, the courtesy pass, and when you can declare Mahjong mid-Charleston

Estimated time: 8–11 minutesNeedsLesson 4UnlocksLesson 6

Why it matters: The Charleston is unique to American Mahjong and confuses every newcomer. Master it here and you'll feel ready at any table.

Step 1 of 15

What Is the Charleston?

Right after the deal — before play begins — players pass tiles to each other.

This is the Charleston. You pass tiles you don't want and receive different ones, giving you a chance to improve your starting hand.

Your hand

Choose 3 to pass

You'll learn where they go next.