Regardless of your viewpoint about superstitions, numerous people still admit it. All around the world, cultures have nurtured some of these beliefs, and it just becomes more important when people gamble in casinos.
It is known by the world that the Chinese are a superstitious group of people. Several gambling superstitions have been extremely deep-rooted in Chinese traditions and culture. It is broadly believed that these traditions can help boost your luck during gambling, irrespective if you are playing mahjong, poker, or going to the casino.
Gambling is a cherished activity for Chinese people, who express and uphold their culture and values through their betting preferences and behaviors. How do they manage to gamble in a strict and prohibitive environment? They employ various humorous and creative ways to do so.
Below is a list of Chinese gambling superstitions and taboos for your reference. Correspondingly, before you go ahead here you can take a look at Boost Your Luck in Gambling by Chinese Feng Shui.
Believe these gambling superstitions or not, it is up to you!
7 Most Popular Chinese Gambling Superstitions – Believe it or Not!
Gambling superstitions
Across cultures and continents, gambling is steeped in superstition. From lucky charms to ritualistic behaviors, players often rely on symbolic gestures to sway fortune in their favor. In China, wearing red—especially red underwear—is believed to attract luck at the tables. In Italy, some gamblers avoid the number 17, which is considered unlucky, while in the United States, many players refuse to count their chips mid-game.
These beliefs aren’t just folklore—they’re deeply embedded in the psychology of risk and reward. Whether it’s blowing on dice, tapping slot machines, or sitting in a “lucky” seat, such habits offer gamblers a sense of control in an unpredictable environment. Even in high-tech casinos and online platforms, these rituals persist, proving that superstition is as much a part of gambling as strategy and skill. They reflect a universal desire to connect with something beyond logic—an invisible edge that might just tip the odds.
The red color is the right color
Try to wear red underwear and then walk into a casino – This might look a bit humorous to some players, but the Chinese have confidence in this as a particular superstition.
In the Chinese tradition, red color is a symbol of joy and good fortune. It is whispered that wearing red underwear, a brief, a bra, or whatever in red is going to bring good luck and fortune.
It’s better to know about the other colors too, for instance; Golden or yellow color is traditionally the color used in imperial service.
Moreover, in Chinese values, the red color typically means good luck while it is not a good choice to wear a red color shirt when you attend a funeral. So, similar to the red packet which is given every Chinese New Year, is just a symbol of good luck in the coming Year.
Counting money is wrong, till the end of time!
Indeed, that’s more internationally accepted that you should not count the money that you gain or lose during the gambling session. If you don’t know why, then look at the lyrics from the Gambler music by Johhny Cash which was released on November 13, 1978, or even better watch the music-video in below.
You don't ever count your money While you're sittin' at the table There'll be time enough for countin' When the dealin' is done
Do not touch
Here another thing is to not hit or touch the shoulder of one while he or she is gambling for the reason that they believe that this act will pat away their good luck.
Somehow it seems logical to avoid such behavior since in another point we can imagine it’s an act that may cause a fight even!
Avoid books
That’s good to carry a book to read, but then it might be a bad idea when you are gambling. During gambling, ensure that there isn’t somebody reading a book behind you or in front of you, since in Chinese, “book” sounds like “to lose”.
So, just stop reading books while people are gambling around you or someone may put the blame on you for his/her loss!
Don’t mess with pregnant women
It is a big taboo for gamblers to play against a pregnant woman because the Chinese accept as true that expectant women are “carrying their good fortune inside their belly” and they correspondingly have additional pairs of “eyes” to watch and observe the entire scene.
So pregnant women are said to bring good luck to gamblers.
Respect monks & nuns
When it comes to religion, we can see lots of things leading to a polite relationship. we are all familiar with different religious views about gambling, simply it’s not wise from the point of view. By the way, history shows that it isn’t going to stop people from gambling.
Related to the above-mentioned, there is a belief that do not gamble after having seen either monks or nuns.
Plan your toilet time
If you are on a losing streak, it is sensible to go to the toilet which brings you luck and vice versa… but, there is a saying that if you are on a winning streak, do not leave your chair for the toilet for the reason that it will wash away your good luck.
As it seems, you should practice your resistance if you want to keep winning!
Endnote
Superstitions in gambling aren’t just quirky habits—they’re psychological anchors that help players feel more in control of unpredictable outcomes. Whether it’s choosing a lucky number, wearing a specific color, or following a personal ritual before placing a bet, these behaviors offer comfort and confidence in high-stakes environments.
Across cultures, such beliefs have evolved into powerful traditions, especially in places like China where red clothing, lucky charms, and numerology play a central role in gambling rituals. Embracing these customs can add a layer of personal meaning to the experience, as long as they’re approached with joy and self-awareness.
You may use some of the good luck rituals as a helping hand to your self-confidence or decently have faith that they will help you win, remember; on condition that you’re having enjoyable moments, it’s fine.
Remember, follow your dreams without fear!
Chinese gambling superstitions
