Chi, Pong, and Kong

Learn the three ways to claim another player's discard in Chinese Mahjong.

Chow (Chi), Pong, and Kong

Most turns are simple draws and discards, but the excitement of Chinese Mahjong comes from the three calls that let you take another player's discard. Each call has its own restrictions and its own strategic value. Chi is another name for chow.

Chow (Chi) — Claim a Sequence

Chow (chi) lets you claim a discard to complete a three-tile sequence in the same suit. For example, if you hold the 3 and 4 of characters, you can call chi on the 5 of characters to make 3-4-5. You can only call chi from the player immediately to your left, because a sequence must come from a discard that would naturally flow to you. Honors cannot be used in sequences.

Pong — Claim a Triplet

Pong lets you claim a discard to make three identical tiles. If you already hold two Red Dragons and another player discards one, you can call pong. Unlike chi, pong can be claimed from any player, making it more flexible. A pong is a powerful way to open your hand and move quickly toward completion.

Kong — Claim Four of a Kind

Kong is the boldest call. It lets you claim a discard to make four identical tiles. You can also declare a concealed kong from four identical tiles already in your hand. After calling kong, you reveal the four tiles and draw a replacement tile from the back of the wall. Because a kong gives everyone a chance to reveal a new bonus tile and can change the flow of the game, it is both risky and rewarding.

After the Call

Whenever you call chi, pong, or kong, you reveal the meld face-up in front of you. You then discard one tile, and play continues from you. The rest of the table now knows part of your hand, so choose your next discard carefully.