How is the Chinese zodiac different from Western zodiac?

The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle with each year represented by an animal, while Western zodiac is based on months and constellations. Chinese zodiac is determined by birth year, not birth date.

When does the Chinese zodiac year start?

The Chinese zodiac year follows the lunar calendar and typically starts between late January and mid-February, coinciding with Chinese New Year. The exact date varies each year.

What are the 12 Chinese zodiac animals in order?

The 12 animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. The cycle repeats every 12 years.

Do zodiac traits really affect personality?

Chinese zodiac traits are part of cultural tradition and entertainment. While many people find them interesting and relatable, they should be viewed as cultural insights rather than scientific personality assessments.

The Only Tools I Need

Chinese Zodiac Year Finder

Discover your Chinese zodiac animal based on your birth year. Learn about the 12-year zodiac cycle and explore the traits, lucky numbers, and colors associated with your zodiac sign.

Birth Date

Chinese zodiac is based on lunar calendar. Enter your full birth date for the most accurate result.

Your Chinese Zodiac

Year of the Snake

Element: Fire

Personality Traits

Wise, discreet, agile, attractive, graceful

Lucky Numbers

289

Lucky Colors

blackredyellow

Recent Years of the Snake

1965197719892001201320252037

Complete Chinese Zodiac Reference

Rat

Element: Water

Recent: 2008, 2020

Element: Earth

Recent: 2009, 2021

Tiger

Element: Wood

Recent: 2010, 2022

Rabbit

Element: Wood

Recent: 2011, 2023

Dragon

Element: Earth

Recent: 2000, 2012, 2024

Snake

Element: Fire

Recent: 2001, 2013, 2025

Horse

Element: Fire

Recent: 2002, 2014, 2026

Goat

Element: Earth

Recent: 2003, 2015, 2027

Monkey

Element: Metal

Recent: 2004, 2016, 2028

Rooster

Element: Metal

Recent: 2005, 2017, 2029

Dog

Element: Earth

Recent: 2006, 2018, 2030

Pig

Element: Water

Recent: 2007, 2019

About the Chinese Zodiac

The Chinese zodiac, known as Sheng Xiao (生肖), is a repeating 12-year cycle where each year is represented by an animal and its reputed attributes. The zodiac animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

According to Chinese folklore, the order was determined by a race organized by the Jade Emperor. Each animal has specific personality traits, lucky numbers, colors, and compatibility with other signs. The zodiac is deeply integrated into Chinese culture and is used for fortune telling, matchmaking, and understanding personality characteristics.