Oh so now I understand the reason behind the red string. What if you don't tie the 6 coins with a red string - will it have a negative effect in some way? What can you say about wulous tied with a red string?

1. For the Chinese "ancient" coins:-

Under the five elements concept: one notice that it has a square hole in the middle. The square hole represents earth.

Thus, Earth (square hole) supports Metal (copper coin). And the red string (or some red) is suppose to "bind" or "control" the entire coin.

2. Hulu tied with red string:-

In my opinion, no precedence other than RED being considered as an auspicious colour (color) for the Chinese. And many decorate it with RED. Not only the hulu but many trinkets or decorative items also often tied with red string.

For example, the Chinese Palace Lanterns. Each of it's legs are decorated with red strings (tassles). No specific reason, but symbolic RED to the Chinese represents auspiciousness. You don't see such decorative objects strung with "white" strings. As white symbolises "death" to the Chinese. (To the west, of course white represents purity).

3. Modern Chinese do wear white wedding dress following western tradition. But often, during the night dinner celebration, they often change into a "Chinese" type of night garment. And many choose RED or PINK or even (royal purple - especially Thailand).

In Europe, the name for Hulu or bottle gourd is Calabash