Chinese Zodiac Calculator

The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle with animal signs, while Western astrology uses a 12-month cycle based on constellations. Chinese zodiac signs are determined by birth year (lunar calendar), while Western signs are determined by birth month/date. The Chinese system also incorporates the Five Elements and Yin-Yang concepts.

The Chinese zodiac follows the Chinese lunisolar calendar, which has been used in China for thousands of years. This means the Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year (between January 21 and February 20). If you were born in January or early February, you might belong to the previous year's zodiac sign.

If you were born before the Chinese New Year in your birth year, your zodiac animal is actually from the previous year. For example, if you were born on January 15, 2000, the Chinese New Year hadn't occurred yet, so you would be a Rabbit (1999's sign) instead of a Dragon (2000's sign). Our calculator accounts for this.

The Dragon is traditionally considered the most auspicious sign, symbolizing power, strength, and good fortune. Many families in China prefer to have children in Dragon years, leading to mini baby booms. However, each sign has its own strengths, and fortune depends on many factors including the element and specific year.

Zodiac compatibility is based on the relationships between the 12 animals in the cycle. Generally, animals that are four positions apart form the most harmonious relationships (the "San He" or Three Harmonies groups: Rat-Dragon-Monkey, Ox-Snake-Rooster, Tiger-Horse-Dog, Rabbit-Goat-Pig). Animals that are six positions apart are said to clash.

The Five Elements add complexity to your zodiac sign. Each element has its own characteristics: Wood represents growth and creativity, Fire represents passion and energy, Earth represents stability and practicality, Metal represents determination and strength, and Water represents wisdom and flexibility. Your element is determined by your birth year.

Yes, Chinese astrology (Bazi or Four Pillars of Destiny) uses your birth year, month, day, and hour to create a detailed astrological chart. While the zodiac animal is one component, a complete reading considers multiple factors. Many people consult astrologers for major life decisions, though it's often treated as guidance rather than absolute prediction.

Tradition holds that your zodiac year can bring bad luck because you "offend" Tai Sui (the God of Age). Wearing red - the color of good fortune in Chinese culture - is believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. This tradition is still widely followed, with people wearing red underwear, socks, or accessories throughout their zodiac year.