The Chinese culture is one of the most ancient cultures still in existence today and is firmly rooted in myth and legend which lends itself quite easily to a wide variety of superstitions and taboos. As Macua is one of the most popular destinations for gamblers from around the world, we’ve put together a list of the most common Chinese gambling superstitions.

Watch What You Say At the Tables

Not only are Chinese gamblers put off by certain colours and numbers, but they also do not like words that sound like unlucky things. For example, in Cantonese the word ‘book’ sounds a lot like ‘lose’, so your bedside table reads is probably a topic which is best avoided. Carrying and looking at books is a no-no too.

Feng Shui Your Way to Luck

Many Chinese gamblers still follow the laws of Feng Shui and the west side of a room or a position from where you can view the door is considered good luck. However, it is considered bad luck to enter a casino through its main entrance and many Chinese gamblers prefer to use a side entrance.

Lucky and Unlucky Numbers

The number 8 is considered lucky in Chinese culture as the Cantonese word for ‘8’ sounds a lot like the word for ‘prosperity’. By contrast, the numbers 4 and 14 are both considered to be bad luck in China, and the word for ‘4’ sounds a lot like the word for ‘death’. You better hope your favourite horse isn’t numbered 4 or 14 for Cox Plate Betting!

Lucky and Unlucky Colours

Many are well aware of the fact that Chinese gamblers consider the colour red to be lucky and many gamblers will wear a pair of red underwear at the casino tables. However, while the colour white signifies purity and fulfilment it is also associated with death and mourning so its best avoided when visiting the casino.

Keep Your Hands to Yourself

While it’s commonplace in Western culture to pat someone on the shoulder to congratulate them, in Chinese culture it’s considered an incredible faux pas to touch someone’s shoulder while they gamble. Not only is it bad luck, but is also very rude as well. Do thumbs up instead!

An Interesting Approach to Hygiene

Not having a good run? Go wash your hands! In Chinese culture if you wash your hands it could change your luck and this fascinating superstition has to be one of the wackiest. As such, if you’re having a prosperous session, avoid washing your hands at all costs!

Make an Offer to the Gods

In Chinese culture, if you’re hoping to have a winning session while enjoying your favourite casino games then it is recommended that you make an offering to the Gods. Pray for good fortune and light a candle and incense. Some gamblers believe that each casino table has a baby ghost hiding behind it, and that you should feed the ghost sugar so that you won’t lose, or at the very least not block you from winning.

Avoid Sex Ahead of a Gambling Session

This is quite possibly the most unpopular of all Chinese gambling superstitions as it is recommended that all gamblers, male and female alike, avoid sex before heading to the casino. Delay gratification until you’ve won at the tables.