Chinese Zodiac Calculator
Discover your Chinese zodiac animal sign and element. Based on the lunar calendar, your animal sign reveals personality traits, compatibility, and fortune.
12 Zodiac AnimalsRat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each year is ruled by one animal in a repeating 12-year cycle.
Enter your birth date above to discover your Chinese zodiac animal!
Understanding Chinese Zodiac
The Chinese zodiac, known as Sheng Xiao (生肖), is based on a 12-year cycle where each year is represented by an animal and its associated attributes. Unlike Western astrology which follows the solar calendar, Chinese astrology follows the lunar calendar.
Your animal sign is determined by your birth year according to the Chinese lunar calendar. Since the Chinese New Year falls between late January and mid-February, those born in January or early February should check whether they fall before or after the New Year date for their birth year.
The Five Elements
Each animal sign is further influenced by one of five elements, creating a 60-year cycle:
Wood
Growth, creativity, compassion, cooperation
Fire
Passion, energy, adventure, leadership
Earth
Stability, practicality, reliability, hard work
Metal
Determination, independence, strength, focus
Water
Wisdom, flexibility, intuition, empathy
Yin and Yang
Yang (阳) Years
Rat, Tiger, Dragon, Horse, Monkey, Dog
Yang energy is active, outgoing, bright, and masculine. Yang years bring growth, expansion, and external action.
Yin (阴) Years
Ox, Rabbit, Snake, Goat, Rooster, Pig
Yin energy is receptive, introspective, dark, and feminine. Yin years favor reflection, consolidation, and internal work.
FAQ
Why doesn't my Chinese zodiac match my birth year?
The Chinese New Year doesn't start on January 1st. It begins on the second new moon after the winter solstice, usually between January 21 and February 20. If you were born in January or early February, you may belong to the previous year's animal.
How is Chinese zodiac different from Western astrology?
Chinese zodiac is based on your birth year and follows the lunar calendar, while Western astrology is based on your birth month and follows the solar calendar. Both systems offer unique insights and can be used together.
What is my "Ben Ming Nian" (本命年)?
Your Ben Ming Nian is your zodiac year - every 12 years when your animal sign comes around again. It's traditionally considered a year requiring extra caution. Many people wear red for protection during this year.
Can I combine Chinese zodiac with my Western birth chart?
Absolutely! Many people find that combining both systems provides deeper insight. Your Chinese animal sign adds another layer to your astrological profile alongside your Western Sun, Moon, and Rising signs.