Chinese Zodiac: 12 Zodiac Signs, Horoscope 2022, Compatibility

Home Chinese Culture Chinese Zodiac Written by Ruby Zhao Updated Aug. 29, 2025

Chinese zodiac, or shengxiao (/shnng-sshyao/ 'born resembling'), is represented by 12 zodiac animals. In order, they are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Chinese zodiac years begin/end at Chinese New Year (in January/February). Each year in the repeating zodiac cycle of 12 years is represented by a zodiac animal, each with its own reputed attributes.

2026 is the year of the Horse, starting from February 17th, 2026 to February 5th, 2027.

Chinese people believe that a person's horoscope, personality, and love compatibility are closely associated with his/her Chinese zodiac sign, determined by his/her birth year.

Here you can learn all about the Chinese zodiac, including your Chinese zodiac sign, your 2025 horoscope, and predictions for 2026.

Content Preview

• What is My Chinese Zodiac Sign?
• Personality
• Lucky Things
• Love Compatibility
• The Luckiest/Unluckiest Zodiac Sign
• Chinese Horoscope 2025/2026
• Chinese Zodiac Story
• Chinese Zodiac in Other Asian Countries
• Chinese Zodiac vs Western Astrology

What is My Chinese Zodiac Sign?

Each Chinese zodiac year is represented by an animal. The calendar of Chinese zodiac years below will help you find your zodiac sign fast.

For example, 1991 is a year of the Goat. If you were born in 1991, your Chinese zodiac sign is the Goat, and you are known as a "Goat".

Chinese Zodiac Years

Rat

2032, 2020, 2008

1996, 1984, 1972

1960, 1948, 1936…

Ox

2033, 2021, 2009

1997, 1985, 1973

1961, 1949, 1937…

Tiger

2034, 2022, 2010

1998, 1986, 1974

1962, 1950, 1938…

Rabbit

2035, 2023, 2011

1999, 1987, 1975

1963, 1951, 1939…

Dragon

2036, 2024, 2012

2000, 1988, 1976

1964, 1952, 1940…

Snake

2025, 2013, 2001

1989, 1977, 1965

1953, 1941, 1929…

Horse

2026, 2014, 2002

1990, 1978, 1966

1954, 1942, 1930…

Goat

2027, 2015, 2003

1991, 1979, 1967

1955, 1943, 1931…

Monkey

2028, 2016, 2004

1992, 1980, 1968

1956, 1944, 1932…

Rooster

2029, 2017, 2005

1993, 1981, 1969

1957, 1945, 1933…

Dog

2030, 2018, 2006

1994, 1982, 1970

1958, 1946, 1934…

Pig

2031, 2019, 2007

1995, 1983, 1971

1959, 1947, 1935…

You may want to read more about Chinese zodiac years.

For the starting date of a zodiac year, there are two schools of thought in Chinese astrology: Chinese New Year or the Start of Spring.

• Chinese New Year, day 1 of the Chinese lunar year, falls somewhere in the period January 21st to February 20th.
• The Start of Spring is the 1st of the 24 Solar Terms, beginning on February 3rd or 4th.

Most Chinese people use Chinese New Year as the start of the zodiac year. This is popular Chinese astrology. Only traditionalists and professional astrologers use the first solar term. Therefore, for example if you were born in January or February in 1997, you might be an Ox or a Rat.

You can use our free Chinese zodiac sign calculator below to be sure.

Chinese Zodiac Calculator

Chinese Zodiac Caculator Choose your date of birth and find out about your Chinese zodiac sign. JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930311920192119221923192419251926192719281929193019311932193319341935193619371938193919401941194219431944194519461947194819491950195119521953195419551956195719581959196019611962196319641965196619671968196919701971197219731974197519761977197819791980198119821983198419851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022202320242025 Find Your Zodiac Sign You are a:

• Personality:
• Lucky numbers:
• Lucky colors:
• Lucky flowers:

Click the zodiac sign below to check each animal sign's horoscope, personality, love compatibility, etc. in detail.

Rat Ox Tiger Rabbit Dragon Snake Horse Goat Monkey Rooster Dog Pig

Chinese Zodiac Signs' Personality

Chinese zodiac animals have astrological and cultural meanings. Chinese people associate each animal sign with certain characteristics. It's believed that people born in a given year have the personality of that year's animal.

• Rat: quick-witted, resourceful, versatile, kind.
• Ox: diligent, dependable, strong, determined.
• Tiger: brave, confident, competitive, unpredictable.
• Rabbit: quiet, elegant, kind, responsible.
• Dragon: confident, intelligent, enthusiastic.
• Snake: enigmatic, intelligent, wise.
• Horse: animated, active, energetic.
• Goat: calm, gentle, sympathetic.
• Monkey: sharp, smart, curious.
• Rooster: observant, hardworking, courageous.
• Dog: lovely, honest, prudent.
• Pig: compassionate, generous, diligent.

Chinese Zodiac Signs' Lucky/Unlucky Things

Lucky Things

Chinese Zodiac Sign	Lucky Numbers	Lucky Colors	Lucky Flowers
Rat	2, 3	blue, gold, green	lily, African violet
Ox	1, 4	white, yellow, green	tulip, peach blossom
Tiger	1, 3, 4	blue, gray, orange	yellow lily, cineraria
Rabbit	3, 4, 6	red, pink, purple, blue	plantain lily, jasmine
Dragon	1, 6, 7	gold, silver, grayish white	bleeding-heart glory bower, dragon flowers
Snake	2, 8, 9	black, red, and yellow	orchid and cactus
Horse	2, 3, 7	yellow and green	calla lily and jasmine
Goat	2, 7	brown, red, and purple	carnations and primroses
Monkey	4, 9	white, blue, gold	chrysanthemum, crape myrtle
Rooster	5, 7, 8	gold, brown, and yellow	gladiola, cockscomb
Dog	3, 4, 9	red, green, and purple	rose, cymbidium orchids
Pig	2, 5, 8	yellow, gray, brown, gold	hydrangea and daisy

Unlucky Things

Chinese Zodiac Sign	Unlucky Numbers	Unlucky Colors
Rat	5, 9	yellow, brown
Ox	5, 6	blue
Tiger	6, 7, 8	brown
Rabbit	1, 7, 8	dark brown, dark yellow, white
Dragon	3, 8	blue, green
Snake	1, 6, 7	brown, gold, white
Horse	1, 5, 6	blue, white
Goat	4, 9	blue, black
Monkey	2, 7	red, pink
Rooster	1, 3, 9	red
Dog	1, 6, 7	blue, white, gold
Pig	1, 7	red, blue, green

Chinese Zodiac Love Compatibility

Best Matches for the 12 Chinese Zodiac Signs

Is He/She Right for You?

An important use of the Chinese zodiac is to determine if two people are compatible in a romantic relationship... or any kind of relationship. Zodiac compatibility is usually checked before getting married in China.

People born in a certain zodiac animal year are believed to have attributes of that animal, which determines their personality traits and could either help or hinder a relationship.

Chinese Zodiac Compatibility Caculator Enter date of birth and test now Boy's date of birth: Girl's date of birth:

and 's Love Compatibility result:

The compatibility rating is: % ()

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What is the luckiest/unluckiest Chinese zodiac sign?

In Chinese culture, the top 5 luckiest/most popular zodiac signs are Dragon, Snake, Pig, Rat, and Tiger conventionally.

There is a popular Chinese folk saying that 9/10 Goats are inadequate (十羊九不全 '10 Goats 9 incomplete'), which implies that most people born in a year of the Goat are destined for bad luck. Most Chinese people also believe that people born in a Goat year will grow up to be followers rather than leaders. Although this is an outdated superstition, it has a real effect on Chinese society.

Conversely, the Dragon is the most coveted zodiac sign, with Chinese births peaking in Dragon years.

Rationally, it's hard to identify the luckiest or unluckiest zodiac signs, as each sign has its own advantages and disadvantages. Socially, different combinations of zodiac signs cause different relational dynamics, which may affect someone's life more, as we don't live in isolation.

For more insights, we present the fortunes of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs below.

Chinese Horoscope 2025/2026 Predictions for 12 Zodiac Signs

As we move forward in time, we're stepping into the fresh vibes of 2025 and beyond! The coming years are bringing a mix of opportunities and challenges for each zodiac sign. So, how's the luck looking for the 12 zodiac signs in 2025 and 2026?

• Rat
• OX
• Tiger
• Rabbit
• Dragon
• Snake
• Horse
• Goat
• Monkey
• Rooster
• Dog
• Pig

Rats' Horoscope 2025

Rats, you're also in for a solid year in 2025. Your quick thinking and unique perspectives will lead you to some successful decisions, pushing your career to new heights. Entrepreneurship and career advancements are on the cards for you, along with building positive relationships with your crew, pals, and fam.

Rats' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, you'll face challenges due to Tai Sui, leading to potential conflicts at work. Patience is key. Financial prospects are average, with no significant gains in regular or side income. In love, if you're single, you may meet someone special, so take the initiative. Your health might decline with emotional fluctuations; focus on mental well-being. Maintain stable relationships and avoid impulsive actions to protect your health.

Oxes' Horoscope 2025

Oxen, you're marching into a stable and fruitful year in 2025, marked by your diligence and responsibility. Your steady progress in your career and harmonious relationships with your peeps will keep that success train chugging along smoothly.

Oxes' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, you may face challenges due to Tai Sui, leading to difficulties and stagnation at work. It's important to stay optimistic and adjust your mindset. Avoid conflicts with colleagues and manage heavy workloads by staying calm. Financially, be cautious with spending and plan carefully to avoid stress. Consider saving regularly to build stability. In love, single individuals should look for potential partners with similar interests, while those married should address any conflicts proactively. Health-wise, watch for minor issues, especially abdominal, and maintain good habits. Pay attention to mental health, rest well, and exercise to relieve stress.

Tigers' Horoscope 2025

Tigers, brace yourselves for some challenges in 2025. Hard work and a low-key approach will help you seize opportunities and manage your finances effectively. Stay positive, focus on personal growth, and you'll conquer any obstacles that come your way.

Tigers' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, you'll benefit from Tai Sui, enhancing your life and stability. Your career will thrive, with opportunities for promotion and salary increases due to your decision-making skills. Financially, you'll enjoy stable income and good fortune, with valuable projects and investments coming your way. In love, your charm will attract potential partners, leading to meaningful relationships. Existing relationships will deepen, possibly welcoming new family members. Health-wise, you'll be energetic; maintain a regular routine and exercise to boost your well-being and support your ambitions.

Rabbits' Horoscope 2025

Rabbits, 2025 is gonna be a game-changer for you with everything falling into place effortlessly. Your hard work is laying a solid foundation for future success, leading to financial stability and smart spending habits.

Rabbits' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, as a Rabbit, your career will be stable, but you should stay cautious, especially in autumn. Seek mentors for guidance. Financially, invest in winter or spring for the best returns, and avoid unnecessary spending. Entrepreneurs should focus on improving products and services. In love, patience is key to avoiding misunderstandings. Be careful with interactions to prevent conflicts. Health-wise, women will generally be stable, but men should watch for health issues and spend more time with family. Regular check-ups are recommended, especially for heart health.

Dragons' Horoscope 2025

Dragons, 2025 is gonna be your year of positivity, success, and financial stability. Put in the hard work, and you'll reap the rewards, leading to a harmonious and fulfilling year ahead with a renewed focus on family responsibilities.

Dragons' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, as a Dragon, you are eager for career success and constantly seek opportunities. With the help of lucky stars, opportunities may arise, but your judgment will be tested. Choosing the wrong industry or investment can lead to disappointment. You need a broad perspective to make the right decisions for good outcomes. Financially, your income may not meet expectations despite your efforts, but it remains stable compared to the previous year. You have a clear financial plan and can earn more with hard work, though setbacks may occur. In relationships, challenges with elders might arise, possibly leading to conflicts. Relaxation is important, but maintain boundaries. Health-wise, you should rest well to recover from work fatigue. Be mindful of mental health and avoid unhealthy habits. Pay attention to your and your family's health, especially female elders.

Snakes' Horoscope 2025

Snakes, you might face some hurdles in career and finances in 2025, but stay optimistic and adaptable to overcome setbacks and achieve success. Keep those negative vibes at bay, prioritize your health, and you'll navigate the year like a pro.

2025 is the benmingnian (本命年 'origin of life year') for those people born under the Snake sign.

Snakes' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, your career will be stable and steadily improving, with help from benefactors and lucky stars, allowing success in any industry, especially in finance and investment. Your wealth will grow significantly, but you should have a long-term perspective on investments. In terms of romance, opportunities for singles are limited, so enhancing personal charm is important. Health-wise, ensure you rest properly and maintain a balanced routine to avoid overexertion.

Horses' Horoscope 2025

Horses, get ready for a stellar year in 2025! Luck is on your side in both your career and relationships. Your charm is gonna draw success at work and love in your personal life, making this year a total win for you.

Horses' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, your career will see an upswing. You're sociable and quickly form good relationships with colleagues, excelling in teamwork and potentially meeting a benefactor. Financially, you'll be stable with steady income and possible unexpected gains, but manage your wealth carefully. In relationships, expect some conflicts; married individuals should communicate to resolve issues. Health-wise, be extra cautious and watch for accidents.

Goats' Horoscope 2025

Sheep, get ready to shine in 2025! You'll be effortlessly raking in wealth and recognition without breaking a sweat. Your stable finances and flourishing career will bring you contentment and success as you crush it in your professional pursuits.

Goats' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, your career will rise steadily, whether you're employed or running a business, with potential for promotions. Business owners will see increased orders and profits. Financially, you'll experience growth in both regular and investment income. In love, singles might meet their ideal partner while traveling, leading to a sweet relationship. Health is stable, but ensure home security during travel to avoid theft.

Monkeys' Horoscope 2025

Monkeys, you're in for a stable year ahead in 2025. Despite your sometimes unreliable and arrogant vibes, your adaptability and ambition are gonna shine through. Your cleverness and wisdom will be your superpowers, helping you tackle work and life challenges like a boss. Get ready to prosper financially, make new connections, and hit some major breakthroughs with the support of your benefactors.

Monkeys' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, you'll face both opportunities and challenges in your career. Your courage and quick thinking will help you seize opportunities, but beware of jealousy and potential false accusations. Financially, your income will be stable, with potential bonuses if you remain diligent. However, your luck with investments may not improve, so plan your expenses wisely. In love, your prospects are rising, with a high chance of meeting someone special at social events. Health-wise, be cautious as work stress may lead to serious issues. Balance work and rest to maintain your well-being.

Roosters' Horoscope 2025

Roosters, 2025 is looking mighty fine for you. Your hard work and perseverance are gonna pay off big time, leading to career growth and financial wins. Brace yourself for unexpected windfalls and fulfilling relationships that will make you feel on top of the world.

Roosters' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, you'll have a laid-back attitude but may face competitive challenges, which will push you to try new things. You might transition from an administrative role to sales, enhancing your skills and gaining recognition. Financially, you'll see growth with potential salary increases and bonuses. Entrepreneurs, especially in female-focused industries, may achieve significant profits. In love, singles may find a compatible partner, while married Roosters gain respect and independence. Your career and finances will thrive, providing strength and energy. However, remember to maintain good health habits for continued well-being.

Dogs' Horoscope 2025

Dogs, you're in for a stable and rewarding year in 2025! Surprises and financial growth are coming your way. Your dedication and professionalism will pave the path for success in both your career and relationships, ensuring a worry-free and prosperous year.

Dogs' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, your career will be stable with good opportunities and smooth collaborations. By seizing these chances, you may get promoted. Communication with family will be positive. You might travel often, so be cautious to avoid disruptions. Financially, income will rise due to good job performance and side ventures, but manage expenses wisely to prevent losses. In relationships, you'll feel loved and single individuals will find suitable partners. Married individuals will maintain stable relationships. Health might be an issue, so focus on self-care, regular meals, and rest to avoid stress and fatigue. Adopt healthy habits and stay positive.

Pigs' Horoscope 2025

Pigs, you might encounter some interpersonal challenges in 2025, but keep your cool and handle conflicts with grace to maintain harmonious relationships. Stay level-headed, focus on solutions, and you'll sail through the year with success and positivity.

Pigs' Horoscope 2026

In 2026, you will experience steady career growth with the help of a benefactor. This support will help you find clarity and achieve success. Financially, while your regular income increases, be cautious with investments as you might face deceit. In relationships, be wary of fleeting romances and choose partners carefully to avoid being misled. Health-wise, you may face declines due to stress or recurring issues, necessitating frequent medical attention. Focus on maintaining balance and self-care.

Chinese Zodiac Story: Explaining the Order and Why There's No Cat

Do you know why the 12 Chinese zodiac animals are in their fixed sequence from Rat to Pig?

The sequence of the 12 signs is popularly explained by a myth about when the Jade Emperor (the supreme immortal) wanted to select 12 animals to be his guards. All creatures on Earth were summoned to participate in a race. The earlier one went through the Heavenly Gate, the better the rank one would have.

• Rat and Ox got up very early. On the way to the Gate, Rat jumped onto the back of the Ox to cross the river. He won first place by suddenly jumping down from Ox's back and dashed to the feet of the Emperor when they're near to the Heavenly Gate. Ox was second.
• Tiger and Rabbit came third and fourth because both are fast and competitive, but Tiger was faster.
• Good-looking Dragon was fifth and was immediately noticed by the Jade Emperor, who said Dragon's son could be sixth. Just then, Snake came forward and said Dragon was his adoptive father; so Snake ranked sixth.
• Horse and Goat arrived. They were very kind and modest and each let the other go first. They were ranked seventh and eighth.
• Monkey had fallen well behind. But he jumped between trees and stones, and caught up to be ninth. Last were Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Why is the cat not one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals? It is said that Cat and Rat got as far as crossing the river together on Ox's back, but Rat pushed Cat into the water. Cat was washed away and didn't get to the Heavenly Gate in time to get a ranking. After that a great enmity grew between Cat and Rat, so that rats scatter in all directions when a cat appears.

The story is widespread (and widely varying) among Chinese. Though it is made up, it might be interesting for you to tell your children and friends.

Actually, the 12 Chinese zodiac animals were chosen very deliberately by the ancients, after many revisions. The zodiac animals are either closely related to ancient Chinese people's daily lives or have lucky meanings in ancient Chinese culture.

What are the differences between Chinese zodiac and western astrology?

The main similarity between the two systems is that both systems are based on time periods of birth, and they both have 12 symbols or signs with associated personalities and fortunes.

However, there are big differences in their origins and astrological theory.

With the Chinese zodiac, the 12 signs are derived from the ancients' musings about archetypal animals, people's personalities and fortunes, and their relationships with one another and years of birth. A myth about a celestial race was later developed to explain the Chinese zodiac sequence.

This differs from Western astrology, where the 12 zodiac signs are based on constellations' positions relative to the earth. The constellations were named according to Greek mythology and astrological theory was developed based on the stars supposed influence on human personalities and lives.

In addition, the Chinese zodiac is calculated on a year-by-year base while the Western zodiac corresponds with "months".

Chinese Zodiac in Other Asian Countries

The Chinese zodiac has a great influence on several other Asian countries, such as the South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and Myanmar. In some countries, the zodiac signs are the same as the Chinese ones, while some of the animals differ in other countries.

The 12 Chinese zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. These animal signs are exactly the same in South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, and Cambodia.

• The 12 Japanese zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar.
• The 12 Vietnamese zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Buffalo, Tiger, Cat, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
• The 12 Thai zodiac animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Naga (a mythical half-human-half-snake spirit), Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
• The 8 Burmese zodiac animals are: Garuda (a mythical bird), Tiger, Lion, Elephant (with tusks), Rat, Guinea Pig, and Dragon.

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