Chengdu , China

Private Half Day Mahjong Lesson

Active

3h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Learn to play mahjong in the country where the popular game started during this private lesson. A favorite pastime in Chengdu, mahjong is an important social activity for all ages. With an instructor-guide, you'll visit a local teahouse to learn the rules of the game. After practicing, you can try playing a round with some Chengdu locals at the teahouse. Choose either a morning or afternoon lesson to suit your schedule. Includes one cup of tea.

Available options

Private Mahjong Lesson

Option 1: Mahjong lesson with hotel pickup at 1pm<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Taxi or metro fare from your hotel to the tea house

Hotel pick up and drop off

Mahjong rental fee

Private English-speaking guide

One cup of tea

Detailed itinerary

Mahjong is considered the most popular leisure activity in Chengdu, more important than other pastimes such as badminton and ping-pong. Around town, people of all ages play the game in parks, teahouses and public squares. Friends and family chat over the tables while business people often negotiate deals.

Your experience starts at your Chengdu hotel, where you'll meet your private guide who accompanies you by metro or taxi to a local teahouse.

After getting seated with a cup of tea, your guide sets up the Mahjong game and begins your private lesson on how to play. Mahjong has some similarities to the card game rummy, in that it requires skill, strategy, memory and luck. Learn the rules and practice basic skills with your guide, and then you have a chance to play a game with the locals at the teahouse, if you’d like.

At the end of your lesson, your guide will help you get a taxi back to your hotel or next destination (own expense).

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks (unless specified)

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children under the age of 5 years are free of charge

About Chengdu

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is renowned as the home of the giant panda and famous for its rich history, spicy cuisine, and vibrant culture. This ancient city offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern urban development, with lush tea houses, bustling markets, and stunning natural landscapes.

Top Attractions

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

This world-renowned research base is home to over 120 giant pandas. Visitors can observe these adorable creatures up close and learn about conservation efforts.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥55

Jinli Ancient Street

A well-preserved ancient street with traditional architecture, local snacks, and cultural performances. It's a great place to experience Sichuan's rich history and culture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (shopping and food at additional cost)

Wenshu Monastery

One of the oldest and best-preserved Buddhist monasteries in China. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and vegetarian cuisine.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Dujiangyan Irrigation System

An ancient irrigation system built over 2,000 years ago. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to ancient Chinese engineering.

Historical Half day ¥80

Chengdu Panda Base

A research and breeding center for giant pandas. Visitors can see pandas in a natural setting and learn about conservation efforts.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥55

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mapo Tofu

A spicy tofu dish with minced meat, typically pork or beef, and fermented black beans. It's known for its numbing spiciness.

Dinner Vegetarian versions available.

Dan Dan Noodles

Noodles topped with a spicy sauce made from chili oil, Sichuan pepper, minced pork, and scallions. It's a popular street food.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian.

Hot Pot

A communal dining experience where diners cook raw ingredients in a shared pot of boiling broth. Sichuan hot pot is known for its spicy broth.

Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Sichuan Dumplings

Steamed or boiled dumplings filled with minced pork, shrimp, or vegetables. They're often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Rock climbing Tea house visits Spa treatments Park picnics Museum visits Temple tours

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is less crowded during these periods compared to summer.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin
Widely spoken: Sichuanese, English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Renminbi (RMB) (CNY)

Time Zone

CST (UTC+8)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chengdu is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport • 16 km from city center
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport • 45 km from city center

By train

Chengdu Railway Station, Chengdu East Railway Station

By bus

Chengdu Long-Distance Bus Station, Chengdu North Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jinli Ancient Street Wuhou Shrine Chunxi Road Kuanzhai Alley

Day trips

Mount Qingcheng

60 km from Chengdu • Full day

A scenic mountain known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and hiking trails. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great escape from the city.

Leshan Giant Buddha

130 km from Chengdu • Full day

A massive stone statue of Buddha carved into a cliff face during the Tang Dynasty. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable feat of ancient engineering.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

340 km from Chengdu • Overnight

A stunning national park known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for nature lovers.

Festivals

Sichuan Festival • Late August Lantern Festival • February (Lunar calendar) Chengdu International Non-violence Week • October

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Visit the Chengdu Panda Base early in the morning to see the pandas at their most active.
Explore the city's tea houses and experience the rich tea culture of Sichuan.
Take a day trip to Mount Qingcheng or Jiuzhaigou Valley for a stunning natural experience.