In Japan in 1991, the gambling industry developed alongside the nightlife industry and even became one of Japan's industrial pillars at one point.
Legally, civil servants were prohibited from gambling, but in reality, it was almost unrestricted. There were multiple legal gambling industries in Japan in '91, such as horse racing, bicycle racing, pachinko, flat-track motorcycle racing, boat racing, etc...
The casinos even opened telephone betting services and pager betting services, so anyone could try their luck anytime and anywhere.
Fushimi Roku certainly knew the dangers of gambling addiction, but he didn't take it to heart. He was happy to partake in regular gambling games... like mahjong and other card games.
"What do you want to bet on?"
He paused, then asked, "Why should I bet with you?"
