What is the Chinese Zodiac?

The Chinese Zodiac (Sheng Xiao) is a 12-year cycle where each year is represented by an animal: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each animal has distinct personality traits, and the year of your birth is believed to influence your character, compatibility, career prospects, and fortune throughout life.

Why isn't my Chinese Zodiac animal based on January 1st?

The Chinese Zodiac follows the traditional Chinese Lunar Calendar, not the Gregorian calendar. Chinese New Year falls between January 21 and February 20, varying each year. If you were born in January or early February, you might belong to the previous year's animal. Always check the exact date of Chinese New Year for your birth year.

What are the five elements in Chinese astrology?

Chinese astrology combines the 12 animal signs with five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element appears in a 2-year cycle (Yin and Yang years), creating a 60-year grand cycle. Your element adds another layer of personality traits - for example, a Fire Dragon is more passionate and aggressive than a Water Dragon, who is calmer and more intuitive.

Is my Chinese Zodiac animal compatible with others?

Yes, Chinese astrology includes detailed compatibility analysis. Generally, signs four years apart are highly compatible (forming a 'trine'), while signs directly opposite (six years apart) may experience challenges. For example, Rats are compatible with Dragons and Monkeys but may clash with Horses. However, compatibility also depends on elements and individual circumstances.

What happens during my Ben Ming Nian (zodiac year)?

Your Ben Ming Nian occurs every 12 years when the zodiac cycle returns to your birth animal. Traditional belief suggests this is a year of challenges, obstacles, or significant changes. Many people wear red (considered lucky and protective) during their zodiac year, especially red underwear or accessories, to ward off misfortune and attract good luck.

Everyday

Chinese Zodiac Calculator

Find your Chinese Zodiac animal and element based on your birth year.

Enter Birth Year

How to Use This Calculator

Enter Your Birth Date

Input your complete date of birth including year, month, and day. The day and month are important because Chinese New Year changes dates annually, affecting which zodiac animal represents early January and February births.

Discover Your Animal and Element

The calculator will determine your Chinese Zodiac animal and your corresponding element (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water). Together, these create your specific sign, like 'Wood Rat' or 'Fire Dragon'.

Explore Your Characteristics

Read detailed information about your animal sign's personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, lucky numbers, colors, and compatible signs. Learn how your element modifies your animal's basic characteristics.