About Michael
From Guam to the Gaming Table
Michael Kane grew up in Guam and Hawaii, where mahjong was part of everyday life — the rhythmic click of tiles, the intense focus of players, the social energy around the table. It only took joining a work mahjong club to go from curious observer to completely hooked.
Today, the club is his Third Place — a weekly gathering of 4–6 tables and a diverse community that has introduced him to Hong Kong, Malaysian, Riichi, and Sichuan styles. His background as an Engineering Manager gives him a gift for turning complex rules into clear, logical steps.
Mahjong Styles
One Teacher, Many Traditions
Mahjong is a family of games shaped by culture and community. Michael's diverse club background gives him rare breadth across regional styles.
Hong Kong Style
The world's most widely played mahjong style — the ideal starting point for every new player.
Riichi Mahjong
Japanese mahjong at its most strategic and meditative. The riichi declaration changes everything.
Malaysian Mahjong
Shares structure with Hong Kong style but carries distinct Southeast Asian character and traditions.
At the Table
The Real Thing
Student Voices
What Students Are Saying
Michael is an outstanding instructor and one of the few in NYC teaching Chinese Mahjong. I organized lessons for a group of four, and from our first phone call, he was professional and pleasant.
A huge advantage is that he actually comes to your home, which made the sessions so much more comfortable and convenient for our group. His teaching style is patient and encouraging—he uses great supplemental materials and ensures everyone is keeping up before moving forward. We just finished four sessions that were not only educational but genuinely fun. If you are looking for a teacher who is knowledgeable, patient, and makes the game accessible, Michael is the one to call.
— NYC Resident & Beginner Student