C'est la Chine · France | Connecting through Mahjong: A cultural phenomenon in Paris

Mahjong, a game with a rich history in China, is celebrated as a cultural treasure. After meals, many gather with friends to engage in this classic game.

Over the years, Mahjong has gained traction beyond Chinese borders, with an increasing number of foreigners interested. In Paris, Mahjong clubs are bustling on weekends, with players deeply focused on their matches, sometimes playing for an entire day.

Fleur d'Orchidée Club

Fung Sai-ming, the president of the Paris Mahjong club "Fleur d'Orchidée," was born in Hong Kong and raised in France. His club has about 50 members, most of whom are locals.

According to Fung, recognizing the Chinese characters on Mahjong tiles can be challenging for foreigners.

To help newcomers, Fleur d'Orchidée regularly offers introductory courses. The club has created pamphlets that translate the unique tile categories—bamboo, dots, characters, honor tiles, and flower tiles—into French and Arabic numerals, making it easier for French players to remember.

Challenges for Beginners

"These can indeed be quite challenging for beginners," Fung explains. "At first, they often confuse the tiles and need time to adapt and memorize all the numbers."

Fleur d'Orchidée follows the International Mahjong Competition Rules (MCR), allowing different scoring patterns to combine when meeting winning conditions.

The Atmosphere of Play in France

Unlike the smoky, tense atmosphere often found in domestic Mahjong parlors, games in France are more subdued.

Players view Mahjong as a mental challenge requiring focus and seriousness. Aside from necessary vocal calls during gameplay, players generally avoid excessive conversation.

Oliver, a member of Fleur d'Orchidée for 15 years, recalls being introduced to Mahjong by his grandmother. After joining the club, he began to learn the national rules and enjoyed refining his skills. "The beauty of Mahjong is that a skilled player can enjoy the game with a beginner, and everyone can have fun," he explains. The game is accessible, and even players of varying skill levels can enjoy themselves together.

Competitive Spirit

These Mahjong enthusiasts don't just play casually; they participate in competitions across major cities to showcase their skills.

Caroline, who has been playing for 13 years, loves Chinese culture and serves as an officer for the French Mahjong Association (FFMJ), which organizes various tournaments.

Founded in 2005, the FFMJ is a member of the European Mahjong Association and one of Europe's largest and most active federations. With over 40 clubs and more than 600 members, the association facilitates regional and international Mahjong competitions. Membership allows players to compete at various levels.

Traveling for Mahjong

Sergio, a member of another Paris club, "Tri Nitro Tiles," frequently travels to compete in Mahjong tournaments.

"There's a tournament in Porto, Portugal, in September and another in Paris in October. You can travel across Europe while playing Mahjong—it's truly amazing."

Mahjong has also brought Sergio love; he met his fiancée at the World Mahjong Championship in Vienna, where they played for different national teams. "We met during the competition and started talking. Now, I'm preparing to marry her next year."

Recent Tournaments

Last month, Fleur d'Orchidée hosted the "ChowTime 2024" Mahjong tournament in the Jewish Quarter of Paris, attracting 68 players from France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. After two days of competition, the international team "Rice and Pasta," consisting of two Chinese players and two Italians, was crowned the best team.

Cultural Significance

While there are no cash prizes for competitions, winners receive gifts. Li Wenlong, a member of Rice and Pasta, was awarded a bag full of food, including wine and colorful pasta. The European Mahjong Association prohibits monetary exchanges at the table, which Li believes enhances the game's purity: "They treat Mahjong as a traditional culture from the East, coming here with no other purpose but to compete."

Fung shares this sentiment: "For me and my friends, Mahjong is primarily a passion, but what matters more is sharing good times together, enjoying food and drinks while having fun."

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