Mahjong Surges in Popularity Across Generations

The classic Chinese tile game is experiencing a resurgence, drawing in millennials, Gen Z, and diverse communities.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 8:39pm

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Mahjong, the classic Chinese tile game, is experiencing a surprising resurgence in popularity across the United States, led in large part by younger generations from the Asian community. Businesses like Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store in Brooklyn and The Haus of Mahj in Connecticut are seeing surging demand for mahjong sets and game sessions, with players ranging from their 20s to 60s. The game's appeal lies in its ability to foster community, social connection, and mental stimulation, providing a screen-free hobby that has only grown more attractive during the pandemic.

Why it matters

Mahjong's revival highlights a broader trend of younger generations, particularly Asian Americans, reconnecting with traditional cultural activities and finding community through shared experiences. The game's rise also demonstrates the power of in-person, tactile activities to combat social isolation in the digital age.

The details

Businesses across the country are capitalizing on the mahjong boom, from hosting regular game nights and lessons to opening dedicated mahjong venues. Tech platforms have also joined in, with apps allowing players to compete remotely. Mahjong's appeal lies in its mix of strategy, social connection, and sensory experience, with experienced players developing an almost intuitive feel for the tiles. The game's diverse history, spanning Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese, and American traditions, also contributes to its broad appeal.

  • In 2023 and 2024, nationwide interest in mahjong surged, with images of eye-catching mahjong tables capturing attention on social media.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the appeal of mahjong as a screen-free hobby focused on in-person connection.

The players

Ann Cantrell

The owner of Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store in Brooklyn, who has seen a surge in demand for mahjong sets and game sessions at her store.

Kimberly Lee

A 60-year-old Chinese American interior designer in the Bay Area who is proficient in both Chinese and American versions of mahjong, and has reconnected with the game in recent years.

Dana Bernstein and Jessica Prince Erlich

The Jewish co-owners of The Haus of Mahj in Westport, Connecticut, who have watched the game span generations and backgrounds at their events.

Nicole Wong

The 38-year-old Oakland, California-based founder of The Mahjong Project and author of the book "Mahjong: House Rules From Across the Asian Diaspora".

Blair Gibson

A 28-year-old regional manager at a fitness studio in New York City who grew up playing mahjong and now plays on a mobile app.

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What they’re saying

“I started carrying sets because customers kept asking for them. I've had people come in who want them as decor, then they end up wanting to play.”

— Ann Cantrell, Owner, Annie's Blue Ribbon General Store

“Mahjong has always been a way to find community.”

— Annelise Heinz, Historian, University of Oregon

“As people from other countries and cultures immigrated to the United States, they brought with them various iterations of the game—leading to the wonderful diversity of styles you can find and play here today.”

— Nicole Wong, Founder, The Mahjong Project

“Mahjong is this perfect mix of strategy, connection, and tactile therapy. It's a great way to get together in a social setting and be off your phone. And once you start playing, it's so addictive. Every game ends with someone saying, 'Should we play one more?'”

— Jessica Prince Erlich, Co-owner, The Haus of Mahj

“I think playing mahjong is both a challenge and a fun time to be with friends who enjoy winning and can deal with losing. It becomes a regular part of our lives: same day each week, same group of friends at the table, and a time for conversations and sometimes making new connections.”

— Donna Parish

What’s next

Businesses and communities across the country are expected to continue expanding mahjong offerings, from regular game nights to dedicated mahjong venues, as the resurgence of the classic tile game shows no signs of slowing down.

The takeaway

Mahjong's revival highlights the enduring appeal of traditional cultural activities that foster in-person community and social connection, particularly among younger generations. In an era of digital overwhelm, the game's mix of strategy, sensory experience, and shared tradition provides a welcome respite and opportunity for people to come together.