You probably need to find out your Chinese zodiac sign if you’ve reached the page. But don’t worry; this article will help you discover your Chinese zodiac sign and understand its characteristics and traits.
The Chinese zodiac is a fascinating system used for centuries to predict personality traits and future events. Each year is associated with a different animal sign, and your birth year determines your zodiac sign.
The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, with each year being represented by one of 12 animals: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. These signs influence the personality traits and fortunes of those born in their corresponding years. Therefore, by understanding your Chinese zodiac sign, you can gain insight into your strengths, weaknesses, and potential for success in life.
Chinese zodiac signs are used not only for divination but also daily life, like choosing a wedding date, naming a child, or even in business decision-making. Therefore, understanding your zodiac sign is essential to Chinese culture and tradition.
Are you curious about your Chinese zodiac animal sign but unsure how to determine it? The key is understanding that the Chinese calendar is based on the lunar cycle, which means it doesn’t align with the Julian calendar that many Westerners are used to.
This means that the Chinese New Year, the starting point for determining your animal sign, falls on a different date each year (sometime between January and February from a Western perspective). This can make it tricky to figure out which sign you were born under.
Luckily we are here for you! Use the table or the Chinese zodiac sign calculator below, and voila! You’ll know which animal sign you were born under. And if you were born in mid-January or early February, you may need to check the Chinese calendar for the previous year to be sure. Happy animal-sign-determining!
Chinese Zodiac Years Calendar
| 1912 – RAT 1913 – OX 1914 – TIGER 1915 – RABBIT 1916 – DRAGON 1917 – SNAKE 1918 – HORSE 1919 – SHEEP 1920 – MONKEY 1921 – ROOSTER 1922 – DOG 1923 – PIG 1924 – RAT 1925 – OX 1926- TIGER 1927 – RABBIT 1928 – DRAGON 1929 – SNAKE 1930 – HORSE 1931- SHEEP 1932 – MONKEY 1933 – ROOSTER 1934 – DOG 1935 – PIG 1936 – RAT 1937 – OX 1938 – TIGER 1939 – RABBIT 1940 – DRAGON 1941- SNAKE 1942 – HORSE 1943 – SHEEP 1944 – MONKEY 1945 – ROOSTER 1946 – DOG 1947 – PIG 1948 – RAT 1949 – OX 1950 – TIGER | 1951- RABBIT 1952 – DRAGON 1953 – SNAKE 1954 – HORSE 1955 – SHEEP 1956 – MONKEY 1957 – ROOSTER 1958 – DOG 1959 – PIG 1960 – RAT 1961 – OX 1962 – TIGER 1963 – RABBIT 1964 – DRAGON 1965 – SNAKE 1966 – HORSE 1967 – SHEEP 1968- MONKEY 1969 – ROOSTER 1970 – DOG 1971 – PIG 1972 – RAT 1973 – OX 1974 – TIGER 1975 – RABBIT 1976 – DRAGON 1977 – SNAKE 1978 – HORSE 1979 – SHEEP 1980 – MONKEY 1981 – ROOSTER 1982 – DOG 1983 – PIG 1984 – RAT 1985 – OX 1986 – TIGER 1987 – RABBIT 1988 – DRAGON 1989 – SNAKE | 1990- HORSE 1991 – SHEEP 1992 – MONKEY 1993 – ROOSTER 1994 – DOG 1995 – PIG 1996 – RAT 1997 – OX 1998 – TIGER 1999 – RABBIT 2000 – DRAGON 2001 – SNAKE 2002 – HORSE 2003 – SHEEP 2004 – MONKEY 2005 – ROOSTER 2006 – DOG 2007 – PIG 2008 – RAT 2009 – OX 2010 – TIGER 2011 – RABBIT 2012 – DRAGON 2013 – SNAKE 2014 – HORSE 2015 – SHEEP 2016 – MONKEY 2017 – ROOSTER 2018 – DOG 2019 – PIG 2020 – RAT 2021 – OX 2022 – TIGER 2023 – RABBIT 2024 – DRAGON 2025 – SNAKE 2026 – HORSE 2027 – SHEEP 2028 – MONKEY |
The Chinese New Year 2023 starts on Sunday, January 22. Rabbit is a lucky sign; all people born in the Year of the Rabbit are said to have a few extra advantages. Discover the Chinese Horoscope 2023 for each zodiac sign.
What is the Story Behind the Chinese Zodiac?
According to legend, the Jade Emperor, the ruler of the heavens, decided to select 12 animals to represent the months of the year. He declared that the animals would be chosen based on their order of arrival at his palace.
And so, the race began! The clever rat, who was also a bit of a freeloader, hitched a ride on the ox’s back, promising him to be a friend and help him. But just as they approached the palace, the rat had a sudden change of heart and jumped off the ox’s back and ran ahead, becoming the first animal to arrive and earning the coveted spot as the first sign of the zodiac. The ox, who was not so amused, still took the second spot. The other animals followed, each taking their respective place in the zodiac based on their order of arrival.
But the story doesn’t end there. Each of these animals is believed to represent specific characteristics and traits thought to be inherent in people born under that sign. So, whether you’re a hardworking Ox, a quick-witted Rat, or a loyal Tiger, your animal sign can say a lot about who you are and your future. Just make sure to keep your friends close and your enemies closer, or you might end up like the poor ox, who got duped by a rat.
What are the 12 Chinese Zodiac Signs?
The Chinese zodiac is made up of 12 animals, and together, they are known as 生肖 shēngxiào. The first animal in the cycle is the rat, followed by the ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.
The people born under a specific Lunar New Year animal will inherit that animal’s personality traits. Given that 2023 is the year of the Rabbit, the persons born between January 22nd, 2023 (Chinese New Year), and ending on February 9th, 2024 (Chinese New Year’s Eve) will have the elegance, grace, and compassion of a Rabbit.
RAT
The Chinese zodiac’s Rat is the smartest of the bunch, with charm and resourcefulness to spare. They can think on their feet and handle any curveballs life throws their way. But watch out, their ambition and work ethic is matched only by their competitiveness – they’ll stop at nothing to come out on top.
And when they do, they’ll celebrate in style – these Rats love the good life and aren’t afraid to indulge in a bit of luxury. In love, they’re faithful and affectionate, but be warned: they’re quick-witted, so you’ll have to keep up if you want to keep them interested. Overall, Rats are a force to be reckoned with – but hey, at least they’re good at communicating.
OX
The Ox in the Chinese zodiac is like the ultimate trusty sidekick, always dependable and robust. People born under this sign are like superheroes of responsibility, tackling complex tasks and challenges easily. They’re the person you want on your team during a crisis because they’re the definition of patience and persistence.
Ox people approach life like a marathon, steady and systematic; they embody the phrase “slow and steady wins the race.” They’re the ones who always have their noses to the grindstone, but unlike the grindstone, they won’t wear down. They’re practical, down-to-earth, and always have one hoof in reality, making them the ultimate goal-getters.
So if you’re looking for someone to help you move furniture, fix your car, or just help you move on from a bad relationship, look for an Ox person; they are the ultimate problem solvers.
TIGER
Tigers in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate badasses, powerful, courageous, and independent; they don’t need anyone’s help. They’re the ones who will take on any challenge and come out victorious, like a boss. They are fierce, determined, and not afraid to speak their minds; they are the true definition of “speak softly and carry a big stick.”
These natural leaders are confident and assertive; they don’t shy away from taking charge of a situation and thrive in it. They are the ones who will stand up for their beliefs, even if they stand alone. Tigers are also known for their passion and energy; they tackle tasks like they’re on a caffeine drip with enthusiasm and zest.
So if you’re looking for someone to lead your team or to spice up your life, look for a Tiger; they’re the ultimate life of the party, with a side of fierce determination.
RABBIT
Rabbits in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate free spirit, wild and autonomous; they don’t like to be tamed. They value independence, and their diplomacy skills are on point; they can handle any situation gracefully and tactfully, like a true politician. Their creative nature makes them excel in the fine arts, and they are the epitome of refinement and good manners, making them popular.
But don’t let their easygoing nature fool you; they’re fiercely loyal and devoted in their relationships. They value close connections and are sweet and loving, making them the perfect companion.
So if you were born in the Year of the Rabbit, you might want to consider a career in the arts, diplomacy, or maybe even as a professional cuddle buddy; you’re a pro in making people feel good.
What does 2023 mean for the Rabbit?
DRAGON
Dragons in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate powerhouses; healthy, outspoken, dynamic, and full of vitality; they are always ready to unleash their fire. They are born leaders, and their aggressive and persistent nature makes them unstoppable. They fiercely pursue what they desire and get it; nothing can stand in their way.
But with great power comes excellent unpredictability, so watch out! They are like a box of chocolates; you never know what you will get. But one thing’s for sure, their ambition and hard work are supported by tremendous luck, making them financially fortunate.
So if you were born in the Year of the Dragon, you might want to consider a career in politics, business, or maybe even as a dragon tamer; you were born to lead and conquer.
SNAKE
Snakes in the Chinese zodiac are diplomatic and popular and they are also the life of the party. They have an exciting mixture of friendliness and intuitive reasoning, making them the ultimate problem solvers. They are the definition of a lucky person, always living life to the fullest.
But don’t let their party-animal persona fool you; they are more mentally active than physically. They are like the ultimate detectives, always analyzing a situation before jumping into it, making them the ultimate cautionary tale. They are hard workers with keen intelligence, making them the ultimate brainiacs.
So if you were born in the Year of the Snake, you might want to consider a career in politics, business, or maybe even as a party planner; you know how to make things happen and how to have a good time.
HORSE
Horses in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate social butterflies, charming, physically active, friendly, quick-witted, independent, and decisive. They prefer to be on the move, always looking for the next adventure. They have a great sense of style and are known for their sartorial choices, making them the fashion icons of the zodiac.
But their charm and style aren’t their only strengths; they are gifted orators and make great communicators. They are natural leaders, always pushing for progress and change, with an idealistic and humanitarian outlook.
So if you were born in the Year of the Horse, you might want to consider a career in fashion, public speaking, or maybe even as a travel blogger; you were born to be on the move and inspire others to do the same.
SHEEP (GOAT)
Sheep (Goat) in the Chinese zodiac is like the ultimate creative geniuses, a bundle of creativity, charm, and elegance. They are naturally popular, and their artistic talents make them the life of the party. They thrive in social gatherings, artistic environments, and stimulating conversation; they are the ultimate culture vultures.
But they also have a gentle spirit; they desire a peaceful spot to vent their creative thoughts and feelings. They prefer to carry themselves undisturbed and unpressurized, making them the ultimate introverted artists.
So if you were born in the Year of the Sheep, you might want to consider a career in the arts, fashion, or maybe even as a social butterfly artist, you were born to create and inspire others to do the same.
Is 2023 a good year for Sheep?
MONKEY
Monkeys in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate tricksters, intelligent, manipulative, and gifted with a high skill level. They can use their manual or verbal dexterity to their advantage; they are the ultimate multitaskers.
But sometimes, their cleverness can get them into trouble, they can weave a tangled web of confusion, and their vanity and lack of trustworthiness can make them appear immature.
But don’t let that fool you; they are incredibly resourceful, full of humor, and tend to be unconventional, making them the ultimate wild cards. They often lack sufficient self-esteem to follow up on their good ideas, but in the right relationship, they can significantly benefit from encouragement and assistance.
So if you were born in the Year of the Monkey, you might want to consider a career in sales, marketing, or maybe even as a con artist; you were born to manipulate and make things happen.
How is the year 2023 for Monkey?
ROOSTER
Roosters in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate detectives, known for their accuracy and observational powers. They crave social recognition and are known for their flashy dress sense, making them the ultimate peacocks. They are dreamy people, always looking for ways to stand out.
But their love for attention and flashiness doesn’t make them shallow; they are also military strategists, able to plan and think on their feet. They enjoy life in a lively and outgoing manner, but they also have a sense of efficiency; they devote themselves entirely to whatever they do.
So if you were born in the Year of the Rooster, you might want to consider a career in fashion, public relations, or maybe even as a detective; you were born to stand out and think ahead.
Rooster 2023 Chinese Horoscope Overview
DOG
Dogs in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate protectors, the most dutiful and loyal of the bunch. They are highly devoted to the people they serve and have zero tolerance for dishonesty, making them the ultimate watchdogs. They are the watchful warriors of the Chinese Zodiac and the champions of the underdogs, always standing up for what’s right.
They possess loyalty and protectiveness towards loved ones and fiercely defend them from harm. On the other side, they can be intense and fierce towards the enemies of their loved ones, making them the ultimate loyal and protective companions.
So if you were born in the Year of the Dog, you might want to consider a career in security, law enforcement, or maybe even as a bodyguard; you were born to protect and serve.
Brighter side
Highly loyal, protective, faithful, attentive, helpful, warm-hearted, generous, modest, devoted, dutiful, discrete, intelligent, and enthusiastic
Darker side
On the negative side, you are not a person who welcomes socializing. You are nasty, mean-spirited, disagreeable, bad-tempered, self-righteous, judgemental, quarrelsome, accusing, nervous, anxious, anxious, and tend to get digressed by small things.
What is in store for the Dog in 2023?
PIG
Pigs in the Chinese zodiac are like the ultimate knights in shining armor, motivated by their conscience and highly meticulous in their dealings and work. They have a resigned attitude towards fate and accept life without pushing too hard, particularly not at the cost of others.
On the exterior, they seem to be honest people, but beneath that lies a strong-willed and determined individual. They may be laid back but have a sense of purpose and will fiercely defend their beliefs.
So if you were born in the Year of the Pig, you might want to consider a career in law, finance, or maybe even as a mediator; you were born to be honest and strong-willed.
What does 2023 hold for the Pig?
What is My Chinese zodiac Element?
The Chinese zodiac has five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.
Each of these elements also has a Yin phase and a Yang phase. This means the qualities embraced by each element will either be Yin (hidden, muted, recessive) or Yang (asserted, aggressive, dominant).
For example, someone born in 1974, under the sign of the Tiger, will also have Wood qualities in their Yang phase.
This is the first step in gaining insights into your personality, ideal matches in romance and business, prospects for the future, your destiny, and other important information about you and your journey.
Here is how to find your element and what are the Five Elements’ primary meanings :
Metal
Birth years: Ending number of your birth is 0 or 1
It means: “concentration and self-discipline.”
Water
Birth years: Ending number of your birth is 2 or 3
It means: “tolerance and seduction
Wood
Birth years: Ending number of your birth is 4 or 5
It means: “ingenuity and quickness.”
Fire
Birth years: Ending number of your birth is 6 or 7
It means: “devotion and vitality.”
Earth
Birth years: Ending number of your birth is 6 or 7
It means: “modesty and high motivation.”
What Chinese Zodiac Signs Do Go Well Together?
First, we have the fiery combination of the Tiger and the Dragon. These two signs are natural leaders and will keep each other on their toes. But watch out; their competitiveness may lead to some heated arguments. But don’t worry; the passion will be worth it.
Next, we have the Rat and the Ox. These two signs are known for their intelligence and hardworking nature. Together, they’ll make a power couple sure to climb the corporate ladder and live a life of luxury. But don’t be surprised if they’re too busy making money to cuddle.
Then we have the Snake and the Sheep. These two signs are known for their creativity and artistic talents. Together, they’ll make beautiful music and art, but don’t be surprised if they’re too busy creating to pick up the dry cleaning.
And last but not least, we have the Rooster and the Monkey. These two signs are known for their love of socializing and sharp wit. Together, they’ll make the life of the party, but don’t be surprised if they’re too busy socializing to remember your birthday.
So, if you’re looking for excitement in your love life, try dating outside your zodiac sign and see if the stars align. Remember, love is wild and unpredictable, but it’s always worth the journey.
Compatible and Opposite Sign Animals
| Animal | Compatible | Opposite |
|---|---|---|
| Rat | Monkey, Dragon | Horse |
| Ox | Rooster, Snake | Sheep |
| Tiger | Dog, Horse | Monkey |
| Rabbit | Pig, Sheep | Rooster |
| Dragon | Rat, Monkey | Dog |
| Snake | Rooster, Ox | Pig |
| Horse | Dog, Tiger | Rat |
| Sheep/Goat | Pig, Rabbit | Ox |
| Monkey | Rat, Dragon | Tiger |
| Rooster | Ox, Snake | Rabbit |
| Dog | Horse, Tiger | Dragon |
| Pig | Sheep, Rabbit | Snake |
Four Pillars of Destiny
The Four Pillars of Destiny, also known as the Four Pillars of Birth, is a traditional Chinese astrological system that uses a person’s birth date and time to determine their destiny and personality. The four pillars are the year, month, day, and hour, each corresponding to a different aspect of a person’s life and character.
For example, the year pillar represents a person’s overall destiny and direction in life, the month pillar represents their personality and temperament, the day pillar represents their physical health and well-being, and the hour pillar represents their intellectual abilities and talents. Together, these four pillars provide a comprehensive picture of a person’s characteristics and potential.
The Luckiest/Unluckiest Zodiac Sign
The Chinese zodiac sign reveals our main personality traits, and we know without a doubt that whether a person is lucky or not has a lot to do with how they behave when they encounter difficulties and opportunities.
You have to know your way in life, and don’t hesitate to take advantage of the opportunities that come your way, especially in 2023, the year of the Rabbit.
In this regard, it is not so important what your zodiac sign is because each of us has the skills to attract more luck.
However, we will present below what are considered the luckiest signs according to Chinese astrology.
Dragon, Snake, Pig, Rat, Tiger, and Dog are the luckiest signs as they have ideal intuitions and enough ambition to follow them, even if they have to take a small risk.
Monkeys, Roosters, and Goats aim to be the least lucky signs because they often fail or do not dare to take advantage of the good opportunities that arise.
Which zodiac is luckiest in 2023?
Chinese Zodiac in Other Asian Countries
It is interesting to note that there are many variations of the Chinese Zodiac depending on your country. In Vietnam, the Rabbit is replaced by the Cat.
Also, the Ox is replaced by the Water Buffalo in the Chinese Zodiac. In Japan, the Pig is replaced by the Wild Boar. In Thailand, the Dragon is replaced by the Naga, the Sanskrit and Pali word for a deity or class of entity or being, taking the form of a giant snake, found in Hinduism and Buddhism.
Differences Between the Chinese Zodiac and Western Astrology
Chinese astrology also emphasizes the lunar calendar, which includes the traditional lunar new year and the moon’s cycles. This means the Chinese zodiac year begins on a different date than the Western astrological year.
Chinese astrology also emphasizes the individual’s birth year, as opposed to just their birth date in Western astrology. This means that someone born in January may have a different Chinese zodiac sign than someone born in December of the same year.
Another difference is that Western astrology is based on the concept of the individual and their personality traits, while Chinese astrology focuses more on the individual’s fate and future. Chinese astrology also includes the concept of the “four pillars,” which considers the individual’s birth year, month, day, and time to make predictions about their future.
What is your Chinese Zodiac sign equivalent in Western Astrology?
- Rat -> Sagittarius.
- Ox -> Capricorn.
- Tiger -> Aquarius.
- Rabbit -> Pisces.
- Dragon -> Aries.
- Snake -> Taurus.
- Horse -> Gemini.
- Sheep -> Cancer.
- Monkey -> Leo.
- Rooster -> Virgo.
- Dog -> Libra.
- Pig -> Scorpio.
Western vs. Eastern Perceptions of the Animals in the Chinese Zodiac
Regarding the Chinese zodiac, it seems that different cultures have different perceptions of the animals that make up the zodiac.
In the Western world, the dragon is seen as a fierce and terrifying creature, often associated with burning villages, snatching princesses, and eating villagers. It’s no wonder it took legendary knights to slay these fire-breathing beasts.
But in Asia, dragons are seen in a completely different light. They are associated with clouds and life-sustaining rains and are considered helpful and friendly creatures. According to the Chinese zodiac, dragons are associated with luck, power, and wisdom.
Next on the list, we have the rat. In the West, rats are associated with disloyalty, cheating, and spreading disease. If you’ve ever cheated or swindled by someone, you might call them a “dirty rat.” But in the Chinese zodiac, rats are held in high esteem for their sharp wits, natural charm, ability to hold on to items of value, and cleverness. In Japan and China, rats symbolize wealth and good luck.
Lastly, we have the pig. In the West, pigs are often associated with filth, being overweight, and laziness. If you ever hear the phrase “happy as a pig in the slop” or “this place is as messy as a pigpen,” you’ll know what I mean. But in the Chinese zodiac, pigs are considered the most honorable and generous of the zodiac signs. According to the Chinese zodiac, children born in the year of the Pig are predicted to have a comfortable and carefree childhood.
It’s funny to think that these animals, often seen as negative symbols in the Western world, are viewed in such a positive light in the Chinese zodiac. But it just goes to show that perception is everything. So, next time you’re feeling down, try looking at things from a different perspective; who knows, you might just see the world in a new light. And if all else fails, remember that the Chinese zodiac has your back!