#Japan #Tokyo #National Championship #Mahjong #Kawaijuku Group

Kawaijuku Group's Initiative in Supporting Youth through Mahjong

The Kawaijuku Group has taken a significant step in fostering the development of high school students involved in Mahjong, an activity increasingly recognized as a mind sport. Announced recently, the group will be participating as an educational exploration partner for the upcoming "National High School Mahjong Championship" organized by Asahi Shimbun, set to take place in July and August 2026. This initiative not only highlights the educational value of Mahjong but also aims to support young people's growth through the game.

The Rise of Mahjong among Teenagers

In recent years, Mahjong has seen a remarkable increase in popularity among teenagers. The competitive player base for those aged 10-19 has surged from 250,000 in 2018 to approximately 780,000 in 2023, marking a growth of over 200%. The increased interest can largely be attributed to the recognition of Mahjong's intellectual dimensions, such as the mathematical and logical thought processes involved in optimizing hand combinations, decision-making abilities in response to randomness, and strategic interactions with opponents. This culminated in Mahjong being accredited as an international mind sport in 2017.

The proliferation of online content—such as videos, comics, and dedicated platforms—has also played a crucial role. Additionally, the establishment of various educational Mahjong classes for children and adults has made this engaging activity accessible to a broader audience.

High School Mahjong Clubs: Fostering Team Growth

A notable trend is the establishment of Mahjong clubs in high schools across Japan. By 2026, nearly 20 schools, including Himeji Higashi High School in Hyogo Prefecture and Kishine High School in Kanagawa, have launched clubs focusing on Mahjong as a mind sport. Observations at these clubs reveal students engaging earnestly with the game, not simply honing individual skills but also collaborating and reflecting with peers to foster mutual growth. This presents a tremendous educational opportunity, showcasing how team dynamics can enhance personal development.

However, despite the positive developments, Mahjong still grapples with outdated perceptions. Many people continue to view it through traditional lenses, failing to recognize its potential as a healthy and constructive mind sport.

Committing to the Growth of Young Mahjong Enthusiasts

The Kawaijuku Group believes that the skills cultivated through Mahjong are crucial for children's intellectual development in navigating future societal challenges. This belief drives the decision to sponsor the "National High School Mahjong Championship" organized by Asahi Shimbun as a committed educational partner.

For the upcoming 2026 tournament, they plan to introduce elements like "reflection sessions" and the "Thinking Skills Award" to promote visibility of the learning processes involved in mind sports like Mahjong. This initiative aims to shed light on how participating in Mahjong can contribute to learning and personal growth among high school students while ensuring a safe and supportive environment for competitions.

The Second National High School Mahjong Championship

Here are the details for the upcoming championship:

• - Organizer: Asahi Shimbun Company
• - Schedule:

- [Regional Qualifiers] July 5 - 20, 2026, in Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka
- [National Championship] August 13 - 15, 2026, Tokyo

Previous participating schools from the inaugural tournament held in 2025 included various teams from Ibaraki, Tochigi, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Kanagawa, and more, illustrating the widespread interest across the nation.

Looking Ahead: The Educational Potential of Mahjong

A representative from Kawaijuku commented on the project, emphasizing the educational potential observed during visits to high school Mahjong clubs. The initiative aims to support each student's learning journey while exploring the educational values inherent in engaging with a mind sport. Kawaijuku is eager to collaborate with Asahi Shimbun to further probe into these educational values and help shape the future of youth in Japan through Mahjong.