This pro group is primarily for those players located outside of Japan. Japan is already well serviced by some excellent pro groups and we can direct you if you need those details.

Some activities may require travel. However, our organisation's overall goal has always been to assist in establishing strong, local player bases. We hope that our pro members will also be dedicated to that goal.

An objective of the World Riichi Professional Mahjong group is to build paths for progression outside of Japan. Although we're offering benefits to those who do wish to take a trip to Japan, that will not be an expectation.

In this modern climate, we will have lots of online opportunities to interact and participate as a World Riichi Professional.

The monthly membership is 30EUR/30USD with discounts for annual payment. This will give access to all standard privileges.

Some special events may incur an extra cost.

We will circulate sample questions and other materials so you can prepare if you are taking the test.

There will be a few stages, including an interview. World Riichi Professional Mahjong will be looking for rounded individuals who will be able to promote the game.

You will NOT be required to speak any Japanese. However, the test will only be supported in English at least initially.

We are reviewing how best to administer the test and looking at both online and offline options. There may also be a fee to take the test. Please check back later.

No, unfortunately we are not in a position to employ anyone. The word 'pro' is being used in the context of Japanese pro groups. You will have demonstrated your skills and will be certified by the World Riichi Professional Group with the eligibility to participate in exclusive opportunities. Being 'Pro' will also bring the obligation to represent the pro group and behave as a community role model. As in Japan, it is possible that a pro title may open the door for paid activities in the future, but that is not a guarantee. (Please don't quit the day job!)

As you won't be employed, we know you will be working any obligations around your work and family life. Although there will be some expectations for activity, we will demonstrate as much flexibility as possible.

As of 2026, we are approximately 40 professionals across continents.

We don't have a specific number of pros we can have in our group. The size of the group will depend on achieving high quality and making sure we are properly meeting member expectations.

We will offer content for those who might not want to be a pro now or might never want to be a pro. We want to raise the level up for everyone.

We are currently partnered with the Japan Professional Mahjong League, Nihon Pro Mahjong and Mahjong Union. We are expecting that list to grow in the near future!

The World Riichi Pro Test will be set up in the same way as those of professional organizations in Japan. You will be evaluated on mahjong knowledge, scoring capabilities, etiquette and attitude. Although we are making arrangements to accommodate people who are unable to easily travel to major hubs, you will be held to the same standards as new professionals everywhere in the world.
We are cultivating close relationships with all of our partners in Japan to ensure that our professionals are accepted and treated the same as our counterparts in Japan and that also means access and qualification to tournaments and professional leagues for those with the means to travel. There will be additional resources available so that you will feel confident in sitting at the table in professional tournaments everywhere in the world.