The 12 Chinese Zodiac Signs

Discover the ancient wisdom of Chinese astrology. Each zodiac animal represents unique personality traits, elements, and life paths.

About Chinese Zodiac

The Chinese zodiac, known as Sheng Xiao (生肖), is a 12-year cycle where each year is represented by an animal and its reputed attributes. The 12 animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Unlike Western astrology based on months, Chinese zodiac signs are determined by birth year. The zodiac year traditionally begins at Chinese New Year (春节), which falls between late January and mid-February each year.

The Five Elements (五行)

Each zodiac sign is associated with one of five elements: Metal (金), Wood (木), Water (水), Fire (火), and Earth (土). These elements interact through cycles of creation and destruction, influencing personality and compatibility.

Yin and Yang (阴阳)

The zodiac animals alternate between Yin (feminine, passive) and Yang (masculine, active) energies. This balance is fundamental to Chinese philosophy and affects how different signs interact with each other.