Translation guide
A place where people gather to play mahjong, often for money. In Japan, these are known as 雀荘 (jansō) and range from casual to competitive environments.
A commercial establishment where customers pay to play mahjong, typically by the hour or per game.
The standard term for a mahjong parlor. Used in everyday conversation and signage.
週末はよく雀荘に行く。
I often go to a mahjong parlor on weekends.
A more generic term, literally 'mahjong shop'. Less common than 雀荘 but still understood.
この通りには麻雀店が何軒もある。
There are several mahjong parlors on this street.
A mahjong parlor that does not charge a per-game fee, often used for casual play or practice.
A mahjong parlor where no money is bet on games. Popular among beginners and casual players.
初心者なのでノーレート雀荘を探しています。
I'm a beginner, so I'm looking for a no-rate mahjong parlor.
Literally 'free mahjong parlor', meaning no fixed membership or betting. Often used interchangeably with ノーレート.
フリー雀荘なら気軽に入れる。
You can easily drop into a free mahjong parlor.
A mahjong parlor where significant money is wagered, often associated with serious or professional play.
A mahjong parlor with high betting stakes. Attracts skilled players and sometimes has a tense atmosphere.
高レート雀荘は初心者には向かない。
High-rate mahjong parlors are not suitable for beginners.
Literally 'gambling mahjong shop'. Emphasizes the gambling aspect. Less common and may carry a negative connotation.
あの地域には賭け麻雀店が多い。
There are many gambling mahjong parlors in that area.
A mahjong parlor used as a place to socialize, often with food and drinks, similar to a casual gaming cafe.
A hybrid mahjong parlor and bar, where you can play while enjoying drinks. Trendy in urban areas.
今夜は雀荘バーで友達と遊ぶ。
Tonight I'm hanging out with friends at a mahjong parlor bar.
A mahjong cafe, often with a relaxed atmosphere, targeting younger crowds or couples.
麻雀カフェでまったり麻雀を楽しんだ。
I enjoyed a relaxing game of mahjong at a mahjong cafe.
Do not translate 'mahjong parlor' as 麻雀パーラー (mājan pārā). This is not natural Japanese. Use 雀荘 (jansō) instead.
Many mahjong parlors in Japan are smoky and male-dominated, but newer establishments like 麻雀カフェ are cleaner and more welcoming to women and beginners.