I always knew that there were 12 Chinese zodiac signs—rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig—which repeat on a 12-year cycle. But my understanding of the ...

Similar to traditional Western astrology, the Chinese zodiac has 12 zodiac signs that can determine a person's personality, compatibility, career and fortunes.

Each Chinese zodiac sign benefits from specific lucky colors such as blue, green, brown, and gold, aligning with elemental energies to enhance harmony, luck, and success throughout the year.

The 12-year Chinese zodiac calendar cycle is represented by 12 different animals, in this order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

In Chinese custom, the zodiac operates on a 12 year cycle of animals paired with one of five elements, wood, fire, Earth, metal or water.

The Wood element encourages development and innovation, urging the Ox to explore new ideas and strategies in their personal and professional lives.

As we enter the Year of the Snake for Chinese New Year on January 29, find out what's in store for 2025 based on your Chinese zodiac sign.

In addition to 12 zodiac signs, Chinese astrology recognizes Wu Xing’s Five Elements theory based on the respective nature and interactions of metal, water, wood, fire, and earth.