The Chinese zodiac, also known as sheng xiao (literally meaning “born resembling”), consists of 12 animal signs. In sequence, they are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Zodiac years in the Chinese calendar commence and conclude with Chinese New Year (falling in January or February). Each year within the repeating 12-year cycle is associated with one of these animals, each embodying unique perceived traits. For a deeper dive into the timeline of Chinese zodiac years, further exploration is recommended.
Regarding the starting date of a zodiac year, two perspectives exist in Chinese astrology:
- Chinese New Year: The first day of the Chinese lunar year, which falls between January 21st and February 20th.
- Start of Spring (Lichun): The first of the 24 Solar Terms, initiating on either February 3rd or 4th.
Most Chinese people adhere to Chinese New Year as the zodiac year’s starting point—a widely accepted practice in popular astrology. Only traditionalists and professional astrologers follow the Start of Spring. For instance, individuals born in January or February 1997 may be categorized as either an Ox or a Rat, depending on the chosen starting date.
To confirm your zodiac sign, feel free to use our free Chinese zodiac calculator below.
Personality Traits of Chinese Zodiac Signs
Each Chinese zodiac animal carries profound astrological and cultural significance. Chinese tradition links each sign to distinct personality characteristics, with the belief that people born in a specific year inherit the traits of that year’s animal:
- Rat: Quick-witted, resourceful, versatile, and kind.
- Ox: Diligent, dependable, strong-willed, and determined.
- Tiger: Brave, confident, competitive, and spontaneous.
- Rabbit: Quiet, elegant, compassionate, and responsible.
- Dragon: Confident, intelligent, and enthusiastic.
- Snake: Enigmatic, intelligent, and wise.
- Horse: Animated, active, and energetic.
- Goat: Calm, gentle, and sympathetic.
- Monkey: Sharp, clever, and curious.
- Rooster: Observant, hardworking, and courageous.
- Dog: Affectionate, honest, and prudent.
- Pig: Compassionate, generous, and diligent.
