Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need any Mahjong experience to attend a class?

• No experience is required for our Mahjong 101 Beginner Classes. Mahjong 101 is designed for complete beginners and will teach you the fundamentals of American Mahjong in a fun, welcoming environment.

• For Social Play, Guided Play, and Leagues, players should already be familiar with the basics of the game. Participants should have either completed a Mahjong 101 class or be comfortable playing independently.

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Is Mahjong hard to learn?

• Not at all! Mahjong may look complicated at first, but most players are surprised by how quickly they pick it up.

• Our Mahjong 101 class is designed specifically for beginners, and we guide you step-by-step through the game.

• By the end of class, most players are already playing their first hands and having fun around the table. Many students leave saying "I can't believe I waited so long to learn this!"

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Can I come alone?

• Absolutely! Many players attend their first class or social play session on their own. Mahjong is a very social game and a great way to meet new people. We’ll help get you seated with other players and make sure everyone feels welcome.

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What if I don’t have a group of people to play with?

• No problem at all! Many people who attend Mahjong at Ono come on their own or with just one friend.

• Our classes, social play sessions, and leagues are designed to help players connect with others who are learning or looking for a regular Mahjong group. We’ll help seat you with other players so you can meet new people and start building your Mahjong circle.

• Many players who meet in class go on to play together regularly.

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Can I sign up for a Mahjong class with friends?

• Absolutely! Many people attend Mahjong classes with friends. When you view the booking calendar, you’ll be able to see how many seats are available in each class. Simply choose a class with enough open spots for your group and register together.

• If you have a group of four or more who would like to learn together but don’t see a class with enough availability, feel free to reach out,  we may be able to help arrange a date that works for your group. Please contact Cyndi@onobrewco.com for assistance.

 

Do I need to bring a Mahjong set?

• No. Everything needed to play is provided during classes, guided play sessions, and events. Mahjong sets, racks, and game materials will be ready for you when you arrive.

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Where do Mahjong classes and events take place?

• We offer mahjong lesson and events at two locations in Chantilly, Virginia and draw attendees from all over Northern Virginia.

  • Ono Brewing Company – Our brewery tasting room where many of our smaller classes and daytime events are held.

  • Ono Offshore – Our private event space located just across the street from the brewery. This space allows us to host larger Mahjong classes, leagues, and special events.

• 👉 Learn more about each location:

  • Ono Brewing Company

  • Ono Offshore

 

Are food and drinks available during Mahjong events?

• Yes! Food and drinks are available at both locations.

  • At Ono Brewing Company, guests can enjoy craft beverages from the self-serve beer wall as well as delicious BBQ from our on-site partner, Odd BBQ. Please note there is not room at the mahjong table to enjoy a meal DURING a mahjong class or event, so plan accordingly if you plan to eat. Beverages are welcome at the table. 

  • At Ono Offshore, beverage service from Ono Brewing is available during classes/events, and some light snacks like chips and candy bars are available, but Odd BBQ does not operate at Ono Offshore

• Players are always welcome to arrive early or stay afterward to enjoy food, drinks, and time with the Mahjong community.

 

What type of Mahjong do you teach?

• We teach American Mahjong, the version most commonly played in the United States.

• This version uses the National Mahjong League card and focuses on building hands based on the combinations listed on the card.

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How long are Mahjong classes?

• Most Mahjong classes and play sessions run about 2-2.5 hours, giving players plenty of time to learn the game, practice hands, and enjoy playing with others.

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What happens after I take Mahjong 101?

• Once you’ve completed Mahjong 101, you can continue building your skills by joining:

  • Mahjong 102 – Strategy and next-level gameplay

  • Guided Play – Mahjong with “training wheels” where help is available

  • Social Play – Relaxed community games

  • Mahjong Leagues – Structured multi-week play

• These options help players gain confidence and connect with the local Mahjong community.

 

How do I see upcoming classes and events?

You can view all upcoming Mahjong classes, play sessions, and leagues on our booking calendar.

👉 Visit the Upcoming Events page to reserve your seat.

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Can I host a private Mahjong class or group event?

• Yes! Private Mahjong classes are a fun option for:

  • Friends groups

  • Moms’ groups

  • Social clubs

  • Corporate team-building

  • Networking groups

• Private events can be hosted at Ono Offshore or Ono Brewing Company, depending on group size.

• Contact cyndi@onobrewco.com  if you'd like to plan a private Mahjong event.​​​