Private Tour

Shanghai Mahjong Experience in Local Tea Bar

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

This is more than a Mahjong class—it's a cultural journey in the heart of Shanghai's Former French Concession.

Held in a local Chinese tea bar hidden in a real local neighborhood, this experience offers an authentic setting where you can learn Mahjong with a professional instructor. It’s the perfect mix of learning, culture, and relaxation.

With English translation provided, even complete beginners will feel confident as they discover Mahjong’s rules, play on automatic Mahjong tables, and explore the game’s rich history and social meaning in Chinese life.

✅ Hands-on Mahjong learning for all levels

✅ A rare look into everyday Chinese leisure life

✅ A perfect balance of learning and playing

✅ Fun, social, and culturally enriching

Don’t just visit Shanghai—experience it like a local. After Mahjong class, you can have a walk around Former French Concession such as famous Tianzifang nearby. Book now and join us for Mahjong, tea, and stories you’ll never forget.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

What You’ll Experience in this tour: 1. Comprehensive Mahjong Instruction: Learn the basics of Mahjong from an experienced instructor who will guide you through the game’s rules, strategies, and techniques. No prior knowledge is needed—just an open mind and a willingness to learn! 2. Professional English Translation: Our expert translator will ensure that you fully understand the game, its strategies, and the cultural context behind it, making it easy for you to follow along and enjoy the experience. 3. Hands-On Mahjong Play: Dive into the excitement of playing Mahjong with a professional Mahjong master. You'll also have the chance to experience China’s automatic Mahjong machines, which are commonly used in both casual and competitive play. 4. Learn About Mahjong’s Rich History and Cultural Significance: Discover the fascinating history of Mahjong, from its origins to its role in modern Chinese society. Learn how Mahjong has evolved over the centuries and why it remains one of the most beloved and widely played leisure activities in China today.

What‘s Included

Classes Workshop: Comprehensive Mahjong Instruction

Use of Electronic Mahjong Table

Professional English Guide/Translator

Alcoholic beverages, and other drinks

Gratuities

Coffee and/or Tea

Options

Shanghai Mahjong Experience in Local Tea Bar

Reviews

5.00

4 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

For the HU (Win!)
149karenj,,Oct 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
On a drizzling afternoon, I walked into a cozy tea house and had the BEST time learning how to play Shanghai mahjong with Jenny and her friends. She (patiently) first introduced me to the basics and provided a handout that I was able to use and take notes on (she also graciously sent a pdf after the class). She carefully explained all the tiles, what PUNG, KONG, CHEW operations were, and then we proceeded to play with open tiles until I better understood how everything worked - from how to properly start to how to build my tile sets. After a couple of open rounds, we played 'for real' with continued assistance from Jenny or one of the master mahjong players (who happens to be one of the tea proprietors). What can I say...I had so much fun (and the Fujian tea served was phenomenal!) that we played for longer than anticipated. The 'ok one last game' turned into many more 'one last game' and it got more fun and exciting as she started to teach me how to score points! As a solo traveler, Jenny and her friends made me feel comfortable and at ease - like one of the friends. She also provided some great local restaurant recommendations. Overall...MUST DO in Shanghai!
Fun Mahjong in Shanghai
schaloupka,,Aug 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had a great time playing Shanghai Mahjong with Jinny! There was no language barrier and she had great instruction sheets available. The tea house was lovely as well! Highly recommend!! It was a wonderful experience 🀄️
Immersive cultural experience
V6379NEdavidm,,Aug 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
My wife and I are in Shanghai for a conference, and were looking for something fun and different. I must say learning to play Mahjong with friendly, experienced locals in a tea shop was a lot of fun. Jenny and her friends made us feel welcome and were quick to engage us with learning and playing. I recommend this experience for those looking to connect with Chinese people and culture in a casual setting.
Mahjong Lesson
383mariaht,,Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had an amazing time learning how to play mahjong. Jenny and local friends made it a fun immersive experience. Great way to spend an afternoon in Shanghai!