Dice
Most styles use two or three standard six-sided dice to decide where the wall is broken. Some sets include special dice or a dice cup. Automatic tables roll electronic dice. American play uses dice mainly to break the wall and decide the first dealer.
Wind indicators and dealer markers
A wind indicator shows the current round wind and, sometimes, who is dealing. Traditional versions are small boxes or dials with the four wind characters; in Japan a dealer marker shows East on one side and the round on the other. They prevent the common argument about which round you are in.
Keeping score
Japanese play uses point sticks in standard values — 100, 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 points — with each player starting at 25,000 in most rules. Chinese and Hong Kong home games often use chips or coins, while American players frequently keep a running tally on paper.
Whatever you use, settle on the scoring method before play begins.
Mats and covers
A mahjong mat — felt, neoprene or cloth — muffles the clatter, protects the table and stops tiles sliding. Many players use a square table cover with raised edges. For travel, roll-up mats are convenient. Comfort matters over a long session.
