Your Mah Jong Journey Starts Here
Join Kiki's Mah Jong Classes and immerse yourself in the exciting world of Mah Jong. Learn from an experienced instructor and connect with other enthusiasts.
Meet Kiki
With over 35 years of experience playing MahJong and more than 25 years of teaching, I am passionate about sharing the joy and strategy of this timeless game. Recently relocated to Santa Barbara, I am delighted to once again offer classes that bring both learning and joy to members of my new community.
My Approach
I believe that anyone can learn Mah Jong. My teaching method is structured and supportive, starting with the fundamentals—understanding the tiles, reading the card, learning the Charleston, building a hand before moving into strategy and more advanced play. My goal is to give students a strong foundation while ensuring the process is engaging and enjoyable.
Class Structure
Each beginner class is limited to eight students and is taught by two instructors. This allows us to provide plenty of individual attention while maintaining a fun, interactive learning environment. Many students join with friends, while others come on their own. Before long, everyone is learning together and helping one another and having fun.
Class Details
By the end of this eight-hour beginner course, students will understand the rules of American Mah Jongg as defined by the National Mah Jongg League and will know how to play a complete game. Like learning any nuanced game, confidence and skill develop with practice. Regular play with others, Guided Play with Coaching sessions, and computer practice are excellent ways to build speed, strategy, and confidence.
Tuition is $225 per person for the complete 8-hour course. Tuition includes the current NMJL card and a protective card sleeve.
Beginner classes are offered in my home or, for private groups of friends or family, in your home, if you prefer. Current class schedules and availability are updated regularly. Please contact me for upcoming class dates.
My Values
I believe that learning should be fun, positive, and encouraging. I respect differing learning styles. Mah Jong is both a stimulating cognitive challenge and a social experience. As a teacher, I see it as my responsibility not only to guide students in mastering the game but also to help them find welcoming and friendly opportunities to continue playing for a lifetime of fun and skill development.
Reviews
"Kiki is fun, knowledgeable and a joy to learn from. The game is challenging which is why so many people continue to play year after year. I am so happy to have had Kiki as my teacher"
– Cheryl
"Learning to play Mah Jong with Kiki was a delightful experience. Her patience and encouragement was so evident. I now have a new large group of friends that I enjoy playing with weekly!"
– JG
"I have always heard that Mah Jong is a difficult game to learn. But Kiki made it easy and fun! In only a few lessons, she taught us the tiles, the card, and the basic rules of the game. A few more lessons, and we knew strategies for winning hands, tips for the Charleston, and how to bet. Kiki is a knoweledgeable and patient teacher and so much fun to be around."
– Beth
"While remembering the various aspects of the game was a bit overwhelming at first, Kiki's patient and encouraging teaching style helped to reduce my frustration level so I could enjoy the game. I highly recommend Kiki as an instructor!"
– Laurie