"We are committed to promoting the Olympic spirit and advocating a healthy, scientific and friendly mahjong culture," Zhang Yanying, director of the World Mahjong Organization secretariat ...

Mahjong has been referred to as the "quintessence of Chinese culture" An apparent police ban on all mahjong parlours in a Chinese city led to panic among aficionados of China's national pastime.

Combining strategy, pattern recognition, and an element of luck, Mahjong has a long history and a fresh, modern appeal.

Players compete in the 7th World Mahjong Championship in Mississauga, Canada, on Oct 12. The event attracted more than 160 contestants from 17 countries and regions. [Photo/Xinhua] Not even a ...