What is Nashi Nashi?
Nashi Nashi is a mahjong ruleset that combines no open tanyao (kuitan nashi) and no atozuke (go-around). It’s a traditional ruleset that emphasizes concealed (menzen) play, requiring higher skill but making the game more challenging for beginners.
Under these rules, tanyao only counts when concealed, and you must have a confirmed yaku before calling tiles.
Rule Components
| Rule | Meaning | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Kuitan Nashi | No open tanyao | Must stay concealed for tanyao |
| Atozuke Nashi | No go-around | Must have yaku before calling |
Rule Combinations Compared
| Name | Open Tanyao | Atozuke | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ari Ari | Yes | Yes | Easy |
| Ari Nashi | Yes | No | Medium |
| Nashi Ari | No | Yes | Medium |
| Nashi Nashi | No | No | Hard |
Kuitan Nashi Explained
Under kuitan nashi (no open tanyao):
If you call tiles → Tanyao doesn't count
↓
Even with all simples (2-8) → Not a valid yaku
↓
You need another yaku to winExample
Chi: 234-man
Hand: 456-pin, 678-sou, 345-sou, 55-pin
→ All simples, but called = Tanyao invalid
→ Need another yaku to winAtozuke Nashi Explained
Under atozuke nashi (no go-around):
- You must have a confirmed yaku when calling
- Also called “complete sakizuke” (advance attachment)
- Requires careful planning before calling
Example
NG: Chi 567-pin first (no yaku), then complete tanyao later
→ Invalid - yaku came after calling
OK: Pon East first (yakuhai confirmed), then complete hand
→ Valid - yaku was confirmed when callingAdvantages of Nashi Nashi
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Skill emphasis | Concealed play is valued more |
| Careful play | Requires planning |
| Traditional | Original mahjong style |
Disadvantages
- Harder to win - Fewer yaku options when calling
- Complex rules - Difficult atozuke judgments
- Slower games - More drawn games
Strategy in Nashi Nashi
Basic Approach
- Stay concealed - Aim for riichi
- Value yakuhai - Safe to call
- Call carefully - Only with confirmed yaku
What to Call For
| Situation | Decision | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Yakuhai | Call actively | Yaku confirmed |
| No yaku | Cannot call | Atozuke forbidden |
| Flush | Only if yaku confirmed | Be careful |
Current Adoption
- Minority ruleset in modern mahjong
- Traditional parlors may use it
- Regional variations exist
- Most competitive mahjong uses Ari Ari
Related Terms
Summary
Nashi Nashi combines no open tanyao and no atozuke, creating a traditional ruleset that emphasizes concealed play. Under these rules, tanyao only works concealed, and you need a confirmed yaku before calling. While more skillful and traditional, it’s challenging for beginners. Always confirm rules before playing, as most modern mahjong uses Ari Ari instead. If playing Nashi Nashi, focus on staying concealed for riichi and pinfu, or only call when you have confirmed yaku like yakuhai.