Play

Fan Tan Rules Explained

Casino game guidesFan Tan

Fan Tan is a traditional Chinese game of chance where you bet on a remainder. A pile of small objects is counted out in groups of four, and you bet on how many will be left. This guide explains it. Payouts are shown in the game.

Key takeaways
  • The dealer counts out a random pile of beads four at a time until one to four remain, and you bet on what that final remainder will be.
  • The main bet is on the exact remainder (1-4).
  • No.

The objective

The dealer takes a random pile of beads (or similar) and removes them four at a time until one to four remain. You bet on what that final remainder will be.

The main bets

The core bet is on the exact remainder — 1, 2, 3 or 4.

Example. If you bet on 3 and the pile leaves three beads at the end, your bet wins. Other bets cover combinations, such as two numbers or odd/even, at different payouts.

Combination bets

Beyond the single number, Fan Tan offers bets covering two or three possible remainders, and odd/even style bets. The more outcomes you cover, the shorter the payout, just like elsewhere in betting.

A pure game of chance

Fan Tan is entirely chance — the remainder is random, so no strategy changes it. Treat it as entertainment, set a budget, and use responsible gambling tools. For other simple games, see the table games guide.

Ready to play at 1xRoll?

Claim your welcome bonus and put these markets into practice. T&Cs apply.

Play Now

🔞 18+ only. Examples are hypothetical and for explanation only — they are not betting advice or real odds. Please gamble responsibly.

FAQ

How do you play Fan Tan?

The dealer counts out a random pile of beads four at a time until one to four remain, and you bet on what that final remainder will be.

What are the bets in Fan Tan?

The main bet is on the exact remainder (1-4). Other bets cover two or three possible remainders or odd/even, with shorter payouts for covering more outcomes.

Is there a strategy for Fan Tan?

No. The remainder is random, so Fan Tan is a pure game of chance and no strategy changes the outcome.

How we made this guide. This guide is written and maintained by the 1xRoll Editorial Team and explains the general, widely-accepted rules of the market. All examples are hypothetical and illustrate mechanics only — they are not predictions, betting advice or real odds. Specific rules can vary by event and operator, so always check the in-game or in-bet-slip rules. editorial approach · responsible-gaming policy

Last updated: 2026-06-15

Related guides