The seven-card Horse Shoe is a convenient, basic layout that can be used to answer different types of questions, especially concerning questions where insight would be helpful. Like several other layouts, it has tiles representing the past, present, and future.
The pinnacle of the Horse Shoe, looking like the top of the mountain, shows the obstacle or challenge that needs to be addressed and overcome. Tile #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final tile shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Tiles #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.

Obstacle ![]() Wan 7 |
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Hidden Influences ![]() East Wind |
External Influences ![]() Circles 8 |
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The Present ![]() Bamboo 8 |
Suggestion ![]() Wan 6 |
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The Past ![]() Bamboo 7 |
The Outcome ![]() Red Dragon |

The Past Tile represents past events that are affecting the question.
Bamboo 7
The Tortoise symbolises the world or universe and its consciousness of the self. This may be a time when it is best to move slowly. Patience will be important. This is a symbol of slow and steady progress, prosperity, and longevity.
Bamboo 8
The Mushroom represents variety and uniqueness. It reminds that surprises can spring up anyplace at any time and leave lasting impressions. Persistence, progress, and regeneration are strong with this sign.
East Wind
The East Wind tile represents you. Tiles adjacent to the East tile in a reading should be given added weight.
Green, spring, wood, dragon
Wan 7
The Seven Stars tile indicates imagination, creativity, and inspiration. This is the time to apply your creativity, to let your imagination run wild. You are the creator of your own future.
Circles 8
The White Tiger is a masculine symbol of power, bravery, and authority. It often speaks of a man who is not afraid to stand up for himself or to assert himself.
Wan 6
The Fire tile stands for inspiration, passion, and intelligence, but also warns of the potential great danger. To not heed the warning from this tile could result in disaster beyond your wildest imagination. Keep an eye on your resources. This tile indicates they may be in jeopardy.
Red Dragon
The Red Dragon represents the centre or middle, as in the core or bullseye. It foretells success and the skilful fulfilment of your goals.