What is the Chinese Poker Edge?

[Crane]

I've played this game (don't anymore), and I fail to see the edge. If the players are of semi-equal calibre, then what's the point of the game other than passing time, addiction, or some other reason I'm not aware of?

If there is a newbie or a real donk in the game, then I get it. Overwise it mystifies me. You're paying the house $100 an hour to pass money back and forth.