Beginner guide
Mahjong Dragons Explained
This lesson uses Mahjong Competition Rules (MCR) whenever a precise rule is needed. Other Chinese and regional tables may differ.
Context: MCRMatching Dragons form pairs, pungs, or kongs; Dragons cannot form chows.
Core idea
Red commonly shows 中, Green shows 發, and White may be blank or framed.
- There are four copies of each Dragon.
- Artwork varies by manufacturer.
Use it at the table
Three differently colored Dragons are not a meld.
- Sort by exact tile identity.
- Check scoring value under the chosen ruleset.
Ruleset boundary
Structure, procedure, and scoring are separate checks. Use the official MCR text for competition decisions and confirm another table’s rules before transferring advice.
Key takeaways
- Red commonly shows 中, Green shows 發, and White may be blank or framed.
- Three differently colored Dragons are not a meld.
- Name the ruleset before applying the lesson.
Lesson checkpoint
Finish lesson & practice Turn the explanation into recall.
Source notes
Reviewed references
- Mahjong Competition RulesWorld Mahjong Organization / European Mahjong Association · Reviewed 2026-10-14
MCR structure, play sequence, 81 scoring elements, and the 8-point minimum.