The Chinese zodiac (or "shengxiao") is a repeating 12-year cycle, each year represented by an animal sign with its own personality and fortune. Unlike Western star signs, your Chinese sign comes from your year of birth.
Clever and adaptable, Rats are quick thinkers who spot opportunity everywhere and charm their way to success.
Patient and hardworking, the Ox earns trust through steady effort and quiet, unshakeable strength.
Bold and magnetic, Tigers are natural leaders who chase their goals with fearless energy.
Graceful and compassionate, Rabbits value peace, beauty and warm, harmonious relationships.
Powerful and lucky, Dragons are born to stand out, dreaming big and inspiring everyone around them.
Mysterious and intelligent, Snakes are deep thinkers with sharp intuition and quiet elegance.
Free-spirited and lively, Horses crave adventure and freedom, winning hearts with their warmth.
Tender and artistic, Goats (or Sheep) are gentle souls with a rich imagination and a kind heart.
Witty and inventive, Monkeys are playful problem-solvers who never run out of bright ideas.
Sharp and honest, Roosters are confident perfectionists who take pride in everything they do.
Faithful and sincere, Dogs are the loyal protectors of the zodiac, valuing fairness above all.
Kind and generous, Pigs (or Boars) enjoy life's pleasures and give wholeheartedly to those they love.
A note on Chinese New Year
The Chinese year does not begin on January 1. It starts with the Chinese New Year, which falls between late January and mid-February. If you were born in January or early February, your animal sign may belong to the previous year, so double-check the exact New Year date for your birth year.
Looking for your Western star sign instead? Use our zodiac sign calculator or browse all 12 zodiac signs.
FAQ
What are the 12 Chinese zodiac signs?
In order, they are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Each rules one year in a repeating 12-year cycle.
How do I find my Chinese zodiac sign?
Your Chinese zodiac animal is set by your year of birth. Use the calculator above, but note: the Chinese New Year falls in late January or February, so if you were born in January or early February, your sign may be the previous year's animal.
What is the Chinese zodiac sign for 2026?
2026 is the Year of the Horse. 2025 is the Year of the Snake and 2024 was the Year of the Dragon.
Is the Chinese zodiac the same as the star signs?
No. Western star signs (Aries, Taurus, etc.) are based on your birth month and day, while the Chinese zodiac is based on your birth year and a 12-animal cycle.