Discover your zodiac animal and element
Learn about the ancient 12-year cycle and explore the wisdom of Eastern astrology that has guided billions for over 2,000 years.
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"Don't build a new ship out of old wood."
The Chinese zodiac, known as Sheng Xiao (生肖), is based on a 12-year cycle where each year is represented by an animal. According to legend, the Jade Emperor organized a race across a river, and the order in which the animals finished determined their place in the zodiac cycle: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Each zodiac year is also associated with one of five elements: Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth. This creates a 60-year grand cycle (12 animals × 5 elements). Your element adds another layer of personality traits to your zodiac sign.
The zodiac animals alternate between Yin (even years) and Yang (odd years). Yang animals (Rat, Tiger, Dragon, Horse, Monkey, Dog) are associated with active, assertive energy, while Yin animals (Ox, Rabbit, Snake, Goat, Rooster, Pig) embody receptive, introspective qualities.
Unlike the Western zodiac which follows the solar calendar, the Chinese zodiac follows the lunar calendar. The Chinese New Year falls between January 21 and February 20 each year. If you were born in January or early February, you may belong to the previous year's animal sign. Use our calculator above for accurate results.
Quick reference for finding your Chinese zodiac animal by birth year
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Click on any animal to learn more about their personality, strengths, and compatibility
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