People playing mahjong

About Pure Play Mahjong

Preserving the Art, Strategy, and History of Chinese Mahjong

Pure Play Mahjong exists to preserve and teach traditional Chinese Mahjong—a game rooted in history, culture, and strategic play.

Our Mission

As Mahjong spread across the world, many adaptations emerged. While these versions introduced Mahjong to new audiences, they often moved away from the core principles that make the game timeless.

Our mission is to bring players back to the source and to create a community—to experience Mahjong as it was meant to be played: social, thoughtful, and endlessly engaging.

MahJong

Meet the Founders

Pure Play Mahjong was founded by three Bergen County moms who grew up watching Mahjong come alive at family gatherings—tiles clacking, laughter filling the room, and friends lingering around the table long after the game ended.

What began as a cherished part of our childhoods has stayed with us through the years, and now we're excited to share it with our community. Together, we are building a Mahjong community rooted in connection, laughter, and legacy—one tile at a time.

Pure Play Mahjong founders playing mahjong

Beverly Ku

River Vale

Beverly Ku has lived in River Vale for over 20 years, where she raised her three adult children. A former CPA, she now works as a holistic health coach and real estate agent. Beverly loves the strong sense of community that forms around shared activities and friendships—especially through pickleball and Mahjong—and is passionate about creating spaces where people can connect, learn, and have fun.

Betty Ku

Oradell

Betty Ku has lived in Oradell for 25 years, where she raised her two daughters. With over 30 years in the insurance and financial services industry, she now splits her time between back-office administration, sewing for her daughter's dance studio, Mahjong, pickleball, and an impressive lineup of creative crafts. Betty's attention to detail and love of tradition help keep Pure Play Mahjong grounded and thriving.

Suzie Tse

Closter

Suzie Tse has called Closter home for more than 20 years, raising three adult children with her husband. She works as an office manager at a closed-end fund and is also the Founder of the CCCNJ Pickleball Club. If Suzie isn't baking or playing pickleball, she's likely playing Mahjong—or juggling all three in the same day. She brings energy, organization, and heart to everything she does.

Pull up a chair, learn the game the traditional way, and become part of the Pure Play Mahjong community.

Ready to Learn?

Get updates about upcoming classes, events, and workshops.