What Are Chinese Zodiac: 12 Animal Signs & Compatibility Guide, 2025 Lunar Year
Ever wondered what are Chinese zodiacs and why they’re such a big deal? You’re not alone.
These ancient symbols have fascinated people for centuries, and they’re more than just cute animal mascots. Let’s dive into the world of Chinese zodiacs and uncover their secrets together.
What are Chinese zodiacs in order?
The 12 Chinese zodiac signs in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Origin Stories
Chinese zodiacs aren’t just a random collection of animals. They’ve got a rich history and some pretty cool stories behind them. Let’s explore where they came from and how they spread across Asia.
The Great Race
Picture this: the Jade Emperor, ruler of all gods, decides to throw a cosmic party. But he needs a way to keep track of time, so he comes up with a brilliant idea – a race across a river. The first twelve animals to cross would each get a year named after them.
The rat, being clever (and a bit sneaky), hitched a ride on the ox’s back. Just before reaching the shore, it leaped off and claimed first place.
The ox, being a good sport, settled for second.
The tiger came in third, followed by the rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and finally, the pig.
This story explains not just the order of the zodiac animals, but also gives us a glimpse into their personalities. It’s like a celestial soap opera, and we’re all part of the cast.
History of Chinese Zodiac Sign
The Chinese zodiac, or 生肖 shengxiao, has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Here are some key historical facts about its development and use:
- Origins: The earliest known reference to the zodiac animals appears in the Zhan Guo Ce, a collection of anecdotes from the Warring States period (475-221 BCE).
- Han Dynasty (202 BCE – 220 CE): The zodiac system became more formalized and widely used for timekeeping and divination.
- Sui Dynasty (581-618 CE): The complete 60-year cycle, combining the 12 animals with the 10 Heavenly Stems, was established.
- Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE): Zodiac animals began to appear in artwork and literature, gaining cultural significance beyond timekeeping.
- Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE): Detailed astrological texts emerged, linking zodiac signs to personality traits and fortune-telling.
Chinese Zodiac in Other Asian Countries
The Chinese zodiac didn’t stay in China. It spread like wildfire across Asia, each culture adding its own flavor to the mix.
In Japan, it’s known as Jūnishi, while Koreans call it Sipsiganji. Vietnam has its own version too, swapping out a few animals to better fit their culture.
It’s fascinating how one system can adapt and thrive in different cultures, proving that we’re all more connected than we think.
Chinese Lunar Calendar
The Chinese New Year, which marks the change of zodiac animal, is based on the lunisolar calendar. It falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice, typically between January 21 and February 20 on the Gregorian calendar.
This means Chinese New Year doesn’t always fall on January 1st. It usually happens between late January and mid-February.
Each year is associated with one of the twelve animals, and the cycle repeats every 12 years. So, if you were born in the Year of the Dragon, you’ll share that sign with anyone born 12 years before or after you.
Animal Trines
In Chinese astrology, the twelve animals are divided into four trines, or groups of three.
These animals are thought to have similar characteristics and get along well with each other. It’s like the zodiac’s own clique system.
- First Trine: Rat, Ox, Monkey
- Second Trine: Tiger, Dragon, Horse
- Third Trine: Rabbit, Goat, Pig
- Fourth Trine: Snake, Rooster, Dog
Knowing your trine can give you insights into your personality and help you understand why you click with some people more than others.
12 Chinese Zodiac Signs’ Personality Traits
Each zodiac sign is associated with certain personality traits. While these aren’t set in stone (we’re all unique, after all), they can be fun to explore and might even offer some insights into your character.
Zodiac Animal: Rat
Born in 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032
Rats are quick-witted, resourceful, and adaptable. They’re great at seizing opportunities and making the most of any situation. If you’re a Rat, you probably have a knack for turning challenges into successes.
Discover how Rats can leverage their adaptability in various professions.
Zodiac Animal: Ox
Born in 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033
Oxen are dependable, patient, and hardworking. They have great strength and determination, able to see things through to the end. If you’re an Ox, you likely have a talent for achieving long-term goals through steady effort.
There’s more to learn about Oxen’s professional potential.
Zodiac Animal: Tiger
Born in 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034
Tigers are brave, charismatic, and natural leaders. They have a strong sense of justice and aren’t afraid to stand up for what they believe in. If you’re a Tiger, you probably have a magnetic personality that draws people to you.
Find out how Tigers can use their leadership skills to excel in their careers.
Zodiac Animal: Rabbit
Born in 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035
Rabbits are gentle, refined, and have a keen eye for beauty. They’re diplomatic and prefer harmony in their surroundings. If you’re a Rabbit, you likely have a talent for creating peaceful, beautiful environments.
Curious about how Rabbits can thrive in various professional settings? There’s more to explore about their career paths.
Zodiac Animal: Dragon
Born in 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Dragons are charismatic, confident, and natural leaders. They’re the rock stars of the zodiac, always drawing attention and admiration. If you’re a Dragon, you probably have big dreams and the drive to achieve them.
Read more about how Dragons can harness their natural leadership skills.
Zodiac Animal: Snake
Born in 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Snakes are wise, intuitive, and a bit mysterious. They’re great at reading people and situations, making them excellent advisors. If you’re a Snake, you likely have a knack for seeing beneath the surface.
Curious about how Snakes can use their intuition in the workplace? There’s more to explore.
Zodiac Animal: Horse
Born in 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Horses are energetic, independent, and always on the move. They love freedom and adventure. If you’re a Horse, you probably can’t sit still for long and are always looking for the next exciting experience.
Discover how Horses can channel their energy into successful careers.
Zodiac Animal: Goat
Born in 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Goats are creative, gentle, and peace-loving. They have a strong artistic streak and value harmony in their surroundings. If you’re a Goat, you likely have a talent for making people feel comfortable and at ease.
Want to know how Goats can thrive in creative industries? There’s more to learn about their professional potential.
Zodiac Animal: Monkey
Born in 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
Monkeys are clever, curious, and mischievous. They’re quick learners and love to tackle new challenges. If you’re a Monkey, you probably have a great sense of humor and enjoy keeping people on their toes.
Find out how Monkeys can use their wit to excel in various career fields.
Zodiac Animal: Dog
Born in 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
Dogs are loyal, honest, and always ready to lend a helping hand. They have a strong sense of justice and are protective of their loved ones. If you’re a Dog, you probably make a great friend and are always there when someone needs you.
Learn more about how Dogs can use their loyalty to build successful careers.
Zodiac Animal: Rooster
Born in 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Roosters are confident, hardworking, and love to be in the spotlight. They have a keen eye for detail and take pride in their appearance. If you’re a Rooster, you likely have high standards for yourself and others.
Curious about which careers suit Roosters best? There’s more to discover about their professional strengths.
Zodiac Animal: Pig
Born in 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
Pigs are kind, generous, and enjoy the good things in life. They have a great capacity for enjoyment and love to make others happy. If you’re a Pig, you likely have a talent for bringing people together and creating a warm atmosphere.
There’s more to explore in how Pigs can turn their social skills into career success.
Five Elements of Each Zodiac Sign
But wait, there’s more! Each zodiac sign is also associated with one of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. These elements add another layer of complexity to your zodiac profile.
Think of it like this: your zodiac animal is the main ingredient, but the element is the secret sauce that makes you uniquely you. Here’s a taste of how it works:
- Wood: The creative powerhouse. Wood Dragons might be sprouting ideas left and right!
- Fire: The passionate spark. Fire Tigers? Watch out, they’re blazing trails!
- Earth: The steady rock. Earth Oxen are as dependable as, well, the earth beneath your feet.
- Metal: The sharp and shiny. Metal Roosters could cut through any problem with laser precision.
- Water: The fluid adaptor. Water Rats flow around obstacles like they’re not even there.
But that’s just the appetizer! Your element changes the whole zodiac recipe. A Wood Dragon and a Fire Dragon? They’re as different as a bonsai and a bonfire!
The Five Elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water – form the cornerstone of Chinese astrology, each bringing unique energies to your life path.
In 2025, these elemental forces will weave an intricate tapestry of influence, shaping your destiny in profound ways. Your birth year’s element adds another layer to this cosmic interplay, potentially amplifying or tempering the Year of the Snake’s wood essence.
Are you born with a Metal element, steadfast and resilient? Or perhaps a Wood tone, flexible yet strong? Your elemental nature holds the key to unlocking your true potential in 2025.
This is an in-depth reading that requires the expertise of a Feng Shui & Bazi master. Curious about how your specific element will dance with 2025’s Wood Snake energy? You can get your FREE Five Elements Feng Shui Horoscope Forecast now.
Chinese Zodiac Sign Compatibility Chart
Ever wonder why you click with some people and clash with others?
| Zodiac Sign | Soulmate Material | Promising Prospects | Proceed with Caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rat | Ox | Dragon, Monkey | Horse |
| Ox | Rat | Snake, Rooster | Tiger |
| Tiger | Pig | Horse, Pig | Ox |
| Rabbit | Dog | Goat, Pig | Rooster |
| Dragon | Rooster | Rat, Monkey | Dog |
| Snake | Ox | Rooster, Monkey | Pig |
| Horse | Tiger | Dog, Goat | Rat |
| Goat | Rabbit | Horse, Pig | Ox |
| Monkey | Dragon | Rat, Snake | Tiger |
| Rooster | Dragon | Ox, Snake | Rabbit |
| Dog | Rabbit | Tiger, Horse | Dragon |
| Pig | Tiger | Rabbit, Goat | Snake |
There’s a whole zodiac compatibility chart based on how well different animal signs get along.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 Predictions for 12 Zodiac Signs
As we slither into the Year of the Snake in 2025, get ready for a time of wisdom, intuition, and transformation. The Snake’s energy encourages deep thinking and strategic moves. It’s a year to shed old skins and embrace new opportunities with a mix of caution and confidence.
For a deeper dive into what 2025 has in store for your sign, check out our detailed forecast horoscope for 2025 Year of the Snake.
Here’s a quick glimpse of what each sign might expect.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Rat
Born in: 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Baby Rats, get ready for a rewarding year in 2025!
The Year of the Wood Snake brings opportunities for those born in the Year of the Rat. Your clever nature aligns well with the snake’s wisdom, potentially making this a prosperous year for your career and finances in 2025.
Curious about how this snake year will affect your money, career, and love life? Check out your detailed Rat horoscope for 2025 to navigate this stable and fruitful year with confidence.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Ox
Born in: 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
For those born under the Ox sign, the Chinese horoscope 2025 predictions suggest a stable year ahead. While the snake’s unpredictable energy might challenge your steady nature, your reliability will be your greatest asset in this snake zodiac year.
Want to know how to make the most of your dependable nature in your career and relationships this snake year? Dive into your comprehensive Ox horoscope for 2025 for insights on fortune, study, and more.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Tiger
Born in: 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Tigers, you’re set to shine in 2025! The Year of the Wood Snake amplifies your natural leadership qualities. This could be a particularly good year for Tigers’ career and personal growth.
But Tiger in 2025 is in the spot of Harm Tai Sui 害太岁, which could encounter some blocks in financial stability and relationship tensions.
Ready to harness your potential in all areas of life during this snake year? Explore your in-depth Tiger horoscope for 2025 to understand how this energy affects your money, relationships, and personal development.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Rabbit
Born in: 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Rabbits, the 2025 Chinese zodiac predictions suggest a harmonious and fulfilling year ahead. The snake’s energy complements your gentle nature, making this a potentially rewarding year in 2025 for personal relationships and self-discovery.
Wondering how to balance your personal growth with career advancement in this snake year? Your detailed Rabbit horoscope for 2025 offers guidance on relationships, fortune, and study opportunities.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Dragon
Born in: 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Dragons, as we transition from the Year of the Dragon to the Year of the Wood Snake, you’re in for an exciting ride! The snake’s wisdom, combined with your charisma, could lead to a prosperous year, especially in career and finances in 2025.
Excited to make the most of your cosmic power boost in this snake year? Check out your comprehensive Dragon horoscope for 2025 for specific insights on money, career moves, and relationship dynamics.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Snake
Born in: 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
For those born in the year of the Snake, 2025 is your year to shine! This Year of the Wood Snake is particularly auspicious for you. The Chinese horoscope 2025 predictions suggest this could be an incredibly rewarding year in 2025 for Snakes in all aspects of life.
Want to maximize your potential in your star year? Dive into your detailed Snake horoscope for 2025 for tailored advice on career advancement, financial opportunities, and love prospects.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Horse
Born in: 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Horses, the Year of the Wood Snake encourages you to slow your gallop and embrace introspection. While this might feel challenging, it could lead to a stable and rewarding year, particularly in personal growth and relationships.
Curious about how to balance reflection with your usual energy this snake year? Your in-depth Horse horoscope for 2025 offers guidance on career, relationships, and personal development.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Goat
Born in: 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Goats, your creative nature aligns beautifully with the Wood Snake’s energy. The Chinese zodiac predictions for 2025 suggest this could be a fruitful year in 2025 for artistic pursuits and personal projects.
Ready to turn your creativity into tangible success in this snake year? Explore your comprehensive Goat horoscope for 2025 for insights on career opportunities, financial prospects, and romantic possibilities.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Monkey
Born in: 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Monkeys, your quick wit pairs well with the snake’s wisdom in 2025. This Year of the Wood Snake could bring exciting intellectual challenges and growth opportunities, making it potentially rewarding for your career and personal development.
Meanwhile, Monkey this year is in the spot of Torturing Tai Sui (刑太岁) and Destruction Of Tai Sui (破太岁). So you need to pay attention to detailed do’s and don’ts in our forecast to ward off the bad luck.
Want to know how to channel your cleverness into success across all areas of life in this snake year? Check out your detailed Monkey horoscope for 2025 for specific advice on money, career, and relationships.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Rooster
Born in: 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Roosters, the 2025 Chinese horoscope predictions suggest a year of potential career advancements and personal achievements. The snake’s intuitive energy complements your practical nature, possibly leading to a stable and fruitful year in 2025.
Eager to make the most of your career momentum in this snake year? Your comprehensive Rooster horoscope for 2025 offers valuable insights on financial opportunities, relationship dynamics, and personal growth.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Dog
Born in: 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
Dogs, the Year of the Wood Snake encourages you to trust your instincts more than ever. While you might face some interpersonal challenges in 2025, your loyalty and honesty will guide you toward a harmonious and fulfilling year ahead.
Wondering how to leverage your intuition for success in all areas during this snake year? Dive into your detailed Dog horoscope 2025 for guidance on career moves, financial decisions, and relationship matters.
Chinese Horoscope 2025 for Chinese Zodiac Pig
Born in: 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Pigs, while the snake year might feel intense at times, your optimism will be your greatest asset. The Chinese zodiac predictions for 2025 suggest a year of personal growth and strengthened relationships, potentially making this a rewarding year in 2025 for the emotional and social aspects of your life.
However, the Pig this year is in Conflict With Tai Sui (冲太岁) according to the Chinese astrology prediction. So, there are specific actions Pig should be aware of.
Ready to turn challenges into opportunities for growth in this snake year? Explore your in-depth Pig horoscope for 2025 for tailored advice on navigating career, finances, and relationships in this transformative year.
FAQs
1. What are the 12 Chinese zodiacs in order?
The 12 Chinese zodiac signs in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
2. How do I know my Chinese zodiac sign?
To find your Chinese zodiac sign, simply look up your birth year in the Chinese lunar calendar. Each year corresponds to one of the 12 animal signs, repeating in a 12-year cycle.
3. What is the difference between zodiac and Chinese zodiac?
The Western zodiac is based on constellations and birth months, while the Chinese zodiac uses a 12-year cycle with animal signs. Western zodiac changes monthly; Chinese zodiac changes yearly.
4. How do I find my Chinese birth element?
Your Chinese birth element is determined by the last digit of your birth year:
0 or 1 = Metal
2 or 3 = Water
4 or 5 = Wood
6 or 7 = Fire
8 or 9 = Earth
More Feng Shui Wisdom to Flip your 2024 & Attract Better Luck in 2025
In 2025, the elemental forces will intricately shape your destiny. The Wuxing Five Element tied to your birth year adds a unique layer to this cosmic energy, influencing how the Wood Snake year will affect you.
Are you grounded by the strength of Metal? Or do you carry the flexible, resilient force of Water? Your personal Wuxing Five Element holds the key to unlocking your full potential in 2025!
Curious about how your element will interact with the powerful energies of 2025? I will guide you to find out your zodiac element yourself.
As a Feng Shui & Bazi master, I can offer you a FREE personalized Five Elements Horoscope tailored specifically to your zodiac element—no need to share your birthdate.
