Mahjong's Global Resurgence: From Chinese Parlors to Luxury Brands and Pandemic Pastime

The century-old Chinese tile game Mahjong is experiencing a resurgence in Western metropolises, including Berlin, London, Paris, and New York. In 2025, participation in mahjong events saw a threefold increase, while TikTok content related to the game surged by 70%. High-end brands such as Hermès, Prada, and Louis Vuitton have begun offering mahjong sets, and the game appeared in a Netflix series featuring Meghan Markle. Originating in late 19th-century Shanghai, Mahjong made its way to the United States in the 1920s through Joseph Babcock. In Italy, it spread from port cities, with Michele Valvassori's workshop in Ravenna crafting sets. The Italian Mah Jong Federation was established in 1987. The game promotes community, enhances memory, and helps manage stress while encouraging a break from smartphones.