Where Southern Hospitality Meets the Ancient Art of Mahjong
In the South, we believe every guest deserves a warm welcome, a comfortable seat, and good company. We just happen to add mahjong tiles to the mix. Private and group lessons in the Charlotte, NC area — come for the game, stay for the warmth.
Two friends. Four decades. One obsession.
Southern Mahjery was born from a friendship that's been going strong for over 40 years — and a shared belief that the best things in life happen when you gather good people around a table. Down here, we were raised on front-porch hospitality, warm hugs at the door, and making everyone feel like family. That's exactly the spirit we bring to every lesson.
What started as casual games at the kitchen table turned into something bigger: a passion for teaching others the joy of American Mahjong. We realized that so many people were curious about the game but didn't know where to start, or felt intimidated by the tiles and terminology.
So we decided to open our doors — literally. We teach from our homes in the Charlotte area, creating an intimate, welcoming environment where you can learn at your own pace with good company all around.
Whether you've never touched a tile or you're looking to sharpen your strategy, we're here to make mahjong feel like coming home.
Southern hospitality isn't just something we talk about — it's how we live. Our lessons take place in warm, beautifully set spaces where every detail is designed to make you feel welcomed and at ease. Fresh flowers, cozy seating, and dedicated mahjong tables — because down here, we don't just teach a game, we host an experience.
Jordan's mahjong room in Charlotte, NC
A centuries-old game that's more fun than ever
Mahjong is a tile-based game that originated in China during the Qing dynasty and has been captivating players worldwide for over 150 years. Think of it as a more social, more strategic cousin of rummy — but played with beautifully engraved tiles instead of cards.
We teach American Mahjong, played with 152 tiles and governed by the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) card, which changes every year to keep the game fresh and challenging.
The goal? Build a winning hand by collecting sets of matching tiles through a combination of drawing, discarding, and strategic thinking. Along the way, you'll navigate the Charleston (a unique tile-passing ritual), read the NMJL card, and — most importantly — have an absolute blast.
Tailored to your pace, delivered with genuine Southern warmth
One-on-one instruction in the comfort of your home or ours, with all the personal attention and Southern warmth you'd expect from a good friend showing you the ropes. We'll meet you where you are — no rush, no pressure, just genuine care.
Grab your friends, your book club, your neighbors — the more the merrier! Nothing says Southern hospitality like gathering your favorite people around a table for good conversation, a little friendly competition, and a whole lot of laughs.
Our signature beginner course. We cover everything from the tiles themselves to the Charleston to building your first wall — step by step, no experience needed.
Already know the fundamentals? Level up your game. We'll work on reading the card faster, defensive play, hand-building strategy, and the mental game.
From booking to your first Mahjong — it's easy as pie
Pick a date and time that works for you using our online scheduler, or reach out and we'll find a time together.
We'll arrive at your door with a warm smile and everything you need — tiles, racks, card, and a heaping helping of patience and Southern charm. Or come to ours for the full experience!
We walk you through everything at your pace. By the end, you'll be building walls, passing tiles, and declaring Mahjong.
You're part of the Southern Mahjery family now. Join our community of players, come back for advanced sessions, or start your own weekly game — and know our door is always open.
Friends for 40 years. Mahjong partners for life.
Jordan brings the strategy and the fun in equal measure — but it's her flawless entertaining and impeccable attention to detail that truly set the Southern Mahjery experience apart. From a beautifully set table to every thoughtful touch that makes you feel like an honored guest, Jordan is a natural hostess who believes no detail is too small. She'll have you reading the NMJL card like a pro and thinking three moves ahead.
With a natural gift for teaching and the kind of warm Southern welcome that makes you feel like you’ve known her forever, Samantha makes every new player feel right at home. She believes mahjong is best learned the way everything is best done in the South — with laughter, good conversation, and a genuine love for bringing people together.
Your mahjong journey starts here
Select a time that works for you, and we'll take care of everything else — that's the Southern way.
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