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 serious gambling establishments.
A commercial establishment where customers pay to play mahjong, typically by the hour or per game.
The standard term for a mahjong parlour. Used for both casual and serious venues.
週末はよく雀荘に行く。
I often go to a mahjong parlour on weekends.
A more general term for a mahjong shop or parlour, less common than 雀荘.
あの麻雀店は深夜まで営業している。
That mahjong parlour is open until late at night.
A mahjong parlour where significant gambling takes place, often with a more serious atmosphere.
Specifically refers to a mahjong parlour where gambling is the main activity. Often associated with illegal or underground establishments.
警察が違法な賭博麻雀店を摘発した。
The police raided an illegal gambling mahjong parlour.
A place where people play mahjong without gambling, often in community centers or casual settings.
Literally 'healthy mahjong', this refers to mahjong played without gambling, often in dedicated parlours or community spaces. It emphasizes the social and mental benefits.
健康麻雀の店ではお金を賭けません。
At a healthy mahjong parlour, they don't bet money.
A 'no-rate' mahjong parlour where no money is wagered. Often used by beginners or those who want to play purely for fun.
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 parlour.
In Japan, 雀荘 (jansō) is the catch-all term, but the atmosphere varies widely. Some are brightly lit and cater to casual players, while others are smoky and serious. If you want to avoid gambling, look for 健康麻雀 (kenkō mājan) or ノーレート (nō rēto) signs.