Chinese Zodiac Signs
and Years

The Chinese Zodiac, known as Shēngxiào (生肖) in Mandarin, is one of the oldest and most widely followed astrological traditions in the world. Unlike Western astrology which assigns signs based on birth month, the Chinese Zodiac is organized around a 12-year cycle, with each year ruled by one of twelve animals.

How Are Chinese Zodiac Years Determined?

Chinese Zodiac years follow the Chinese lunar calendar, which means the new year begins on a different date each year — typically between late January and mid-February. This is why people born in January or early February may belong to the previous year's zodiac sign. For example, if Chinese New Year falls on February 10, anyone born before that date in that year follows the previous year's animal.

The Legend of the Great Race

According to ancient Chinese legend, the Jade Emperor summoned all animals to a great race. The first twelve to finish would earn a place in the zodiac calendar. The clever Rat arrived first by hitching a ride on the Ox's back and leaping ahead at the last moment. The Pig, who stopped to eat and sleep along the way, finished last. This legendary race determines the fixed order of the zodiac to this day.

Chinese Zodiac and the Five Elements

Each zodiac animal is paired with one of the Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. These elements cycle through in pairs of two years, creating a 60-year Grand Cycle (12 animals × 5 elements). This means your exact zodiac combination — for example, Metal Rat or Fire Horse — only repeats once every 60 years, making each person's zodiac identity uniquely specific.

What Does Your Zodiac Year Mean?

In Chinese culture, your birth year's zodiac animal is believed to shape your personality, your strengths and weaknesses, your compatibility with others, and even your fortune in different years. The year when your own zodiac sign returns — known as Ben Ming Nian (本命年) — is considered a significant year requiring special awareness and care.