What strategy game is Uncle Iroh described as being fond of?

Uncle Iroh is described as being fond of the strategy game Pai Sho. His love of the game is one of the recurring details that makes him seem relaxed, sociable, and intellectually playful despite his history as a Fire Nation general.

Pai Sho appears throughout Avatar: The Last Airbender as a traditional board game played by characters from different nations. Iroh often uses it as a way to pass the time, meet people, or communicate indirectly. The game also connects him to the Order of the White Lotus, a secret society whose members recognize one another through shared symbols and customs, including Pai Sho.

Iroh’s interest in Pai Sho is part of his broader appreciation for ordinary pleasures: good tea, food, music, and cheerful company. It should not be confused with Agni Kai, which is a formal firebending duel, or pro-bending, the competitive sport featured mainly in The Legend of Korra. Mahjong is also a different traditional tile game and is not Iroh’s signature pastime.