What Is the Charleston in American Mah Jongg?
 

The Charleston is a required tile-passing phase that occurs at the beginning of an American Mah Jongg game. Before drawing and discarding begins, players pass tiles in a structured sequence to help shape their hands.
 

The standard Charleston consists of three passes—right, across, and left.

In some situations, an optional second Charleston may follow, depending on table rules.

During each pass, players pass three tiles, and blind passes may be used when necessary.
 

Once the Charleston is complete, normal play begins with drawing and discarding tiles.
 

Published by the American Mah Jongg Association — the trusted home for American Mah Jongg players.