At what age does one transition from older sister to aunty? Let’s not go there. Mahjong Palace will be in Bangkok this June, and whether you’ve got a regular corner at the mahjong table or not, it’s well worth checking out. Part of Siri Sala’s ‘The Rivers of Heritage’ series, we tried out the experience recently. As your trusted guide, here’s everything you need to know.
Mahjong Palace comes to Bangkok this June, as part of Siri Sala’s ‘The Rivers of Heritage’ series
Siri Sala Private Thai Villa has introduced ‘The Rivers of Heritage’ series to explore “the influence of Chinese migration on Bangkok’s history, rituals, and social traditions.” The game of mahjong is inarguably one of the most significant products of this heritage, and on 5 and 6 June, guests are invited to learn more about its story and impact.
The journey will begin at Siri Sala, before you’re taken on a boat ride for the Chinese Heritage River Tour. You’ll visit Chow Sue Kong Shrine, and walk through the historic Chinese community of Talat Noi. In the evening, Siri Sala will host Mahjong Palace NYC, a cultural collective that brings together mahjong players of all levels, with food, drinks, and an introductory class before the games begin. If you plan to stay overnight (or you just can’t stay away from the mahjong table), there’ll be breakfast in the morning, and a Thai herbal inhaler workshop, too.
Is Mahjong Palace the same mahjong that the aunties play? What’s the vibe?
Mahjong Palace is a social club that pops up in cities all around the world. They select cool venues to host their game nights in each city, and it’s well worth catching them when they’re near you. Mahjong Palace spotlights Hong Kong-style mahjong, which is the most widely played version of the game world-wide.
The vibe may be similar to when our aunties and uncles play, but with a few tweaks. There’s a curated Mahjong Palace playlist in the background (with bangers you may not have expected), as well as a curated candle scent. You’ll sip cocktails. You’ll exchange gossip. You may make new friends. It’s got the charm of an intimate neighbourhood game night, with the elegance of a stylish riverside venue.
Will I lose face if I don’t know how to play mahjong?
You will not bring dishonour into the room if you don’t know how to play. Luckily, Mahjong Palace founder Subhas Kim Kandasamy will be at the event. He has a great style of teaching, and you’ll pick up the rules of the game in under an hour. Take it from your older sister, who previously didn’t know her chow from her pong to save her life.
There’ll be green tables for beginners, and red tables for open play, so all levels are welcome.
What if I get hungry?
Why are young people always thinking about food?
To tie in with the evening’s wider theme, Siri Sala will be serving a Thai-Chinese-inspired dinner. After cocktails and the introductory class, you’ll get to enjoy this in the dining room that overlooks the private pool. After dinner, as you settle into your corner and solidify your strategy, you can nibble on snacks and treats throughout the game.
Sister, is there a bit of a mahjong renaissance happening right now?
As your older, wiser, half-Asian sister, a “mahjong renaissance” sounds utterly ridiculous, but we get your point. There’s been a resurgence recently, as younger generations are either reconnecting with their heritage, or simply seeking a new hobby or a social connection sans smartphones.
A lot of luxury brands have introduced mahjong sets, promoting them as design objects, too. The good ones are well-executed; the bad ones can be a little gimmicky. There is a bit of a fashionable rebranding around the game for sure.
We understand with all your TikTok-scrolling that you may think there’s been a revival, but mahjong has been here for a very, very long time.
Will it be like The Joy Luck Club?
If you’re old enough to have read this book or have watched the movie, you definitely need to be there.
Will it be like Crazy Rich Asians?
Chic? Yes. Michelle-Yeoh-as-your-MIL-scary? No.
Will it be like The White Lotus?
We’ll allow this as your last pop-culture-related question. You’ve got a good eye. Siri Sala was actually one of the filming locations for The White Lotus Season 3. It’s the setting for Sritala and Jim Hollinger’s home. We didn’t really love those characters, but wasn’t the house gorgeous?
The Mahjong Social begins at 6pm on 5 and 6 June 2026 at Siri Sala. For overnight stays, guests can choose between 5-6 June or 6-7 June 2026. Find out more at Siri Sala Private Thai Villa. For upcoming mahjong events in Bangkok and other cities, check out Mahjong Palace.
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
