What do Chinese Zodiac Animals say about you?
Many of us are intrigued by Western horoscopes and what they say about us, but have you ever considered Chinese zodiac animals and whether they give a more accurate representation?
We are now in the Year of the Pig, just one of the animals within the 12-year zodiac system, which has been an integral part of Chinese culture for the past 2000 years (ages right)!
It is believed that there is a path for everyone to follow to achieve a fulfilled life, decided by your zodiac. This includes compatibility with others, personality traits and fortune, to name a few (takes the pressure off a bit doesn’t it). So, what’s your sign?
Rat (鼠—Shǔ): 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Personality: Rats are intelligent, quick thinkers, who are extremely successful. They are happy with living a quiet and peaceful life and are likable by all.
Best matches: Ox, Monkey, Dragon
Incompatible: Horse
Ox (牛—Niu): 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Personality: Oxen are hard workers who often drift into the background. They are clever and extremely reliable, but never demand praise.
Best matches: Rat, Snake, Rooster
Incompatible: Goat
Tiger (虎—Hǔ):1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Personality: Tigers are brave and enjoy a challenge. They are very active people and love going on adventures.
Best matches: Pig, Horse, Dog
Incompatible: Monkey
Rabbit (兔—Tù): 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Personality: Rabbits are caring and treat everyone with kindness. Their only wish is to be treated the same way.
Best matches: Dog, Pig, Goat
Incompatible: Rooster
Dragon (龙—Lóng):1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Personality: Dragons are independent and strong-willed individuals, but they still desire love and support.
Best matches: Rooster, Monkey, Rat
Incompatible: Dog
Snake (蛇—Shé):1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Personality: Snakes are deep thinkers with a complex mind, they love with their whole heart.
Best matches: Monkey, Rooster, Ox
Incompatible: Pig
Horse (马—Mǎ):1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
Personality: Horses are free spirts who enjoy their own company
Best matches: Goat, Tiger, Dog
Incompatible: Rat
Goat (羊—Yang): 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027
Personality: Goats are loving and generous. They always put others happiness before their own.
Best matches: Horse, Pig, Rabbit
Incompatible: Ox
Monkey (猴—Hóu): 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Personality: Monkeys are mischief- makers who use their charm to achieve goals
Best matches: Snake, Rat, Dragon
Incompatible: Tiger
Rooster (鸡—Jī): 1922, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Personality: Roosters are complex individuals but appear strong to others. However, they seek the most support from loved ones.
Best matches: Dragon, Snake, Ox
Incompatible: Rabbit
Dog (狗—Gǒu): 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
Personality: Dogs are the most loyal and trustworthy friends and partners to have.
Best matches: Rabbit, Tiger, Horse
Incompatible: Dragon
Pig (猪—Zhū): 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971,1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Personality: Pigs are charming individuals, blessed with good fortune in life.
Best matches: Tiger, Rabbit, Goat
Incompatible: Snake
Could your year be your unluckiest?
The simple answer is yes, so good luck if you’re the year of the pig! It’s believed that your zodiacal year known as your benming year (本命年—běn mìng nián) is when you are the unluckiest out of the 12-year cycle. It is seen as a time of rebirth so many incorporate the colour red as it’s seen as a weapon of defence. Some decorate their home red, others wear red clothing, some even go as far as to wear red underwear the entire year, now that’s dedication!
1 in 5 people across the world are Chinese, and for that reason there are Chinatowns dotted around the globe with London, San Francisco and Sydney all claiming to have to the best New Year Festivals outside of Asia.
So, if you’re unsure where your next adventure should take you, why not be a part of Chinese New Year? Alpha single trip travel insurance policies start at under £5, so what’s stopping you? Be part of the celebration!
Prices and information correct as at January 2019.
