Japan is a country steeped in rich cultural traditions and folklore. The Japanese have a deep connection with nature, reflected in their symbolic use of animals.
These creatures, whether real or mythical, have profound meanings in Japanese society. Over time, they have been woven into 12 zodiac animals known as juunishi, each representing a year in a 12-year cycle.
Difference between the Japanese and Chinese zodiac
The Japanese zodiac (Eto) is based on an ancient Chinese zodiac concept that was introduced to Japan in the 4th and 5th centuries. In this Chinese concept, the system of time measurement is divided into 12 units that draw their inspiration from the rotation of Jupiter — an important planet in Ancient China.
Since Jupiter takes 12 years to rotate around the celestial sphere, the Chinese adopted a 12-year cycle. It also became part of the Japanese zodiac signs, but there’s a slight difference: the Japanese have a wild boar as their 12th animal instead of the pig in the Chinese zodiac.
People born in a particular year have the personality of the animal representing that year. So which Japanese zodiac animal are you?
What does each Japanese zodiac sign mean?
Rat (Nezumi): 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972
The rat is the first animal in the Japanese zodiac. There are several stories about why the rat became the first animal. In one story, the gods announced they would offer a spot in the zodiac for the first 12 animals that offer New Year greetings. So the rat tricked the cat and gave him the wrong date, and the cat arrived earlier and missed a spot — and that’s why they are sworn enemies to the present time.
People born in the year of the rat are ambitious, quick-witted, and adaptable. From the story, the rat knew it couldn’t win against mightier animals, so it used its intelligence to navigate the situation with ease. However, if not checked, the byproducts of these positive characteristics may be greed and rudeness.
Ox (Ushi): 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973
People born under this zodiac sign are considered reliable, diligent, and patient. They are willing to put in the effort to achieve their goals and were likened to the ox — one of the most valuable and reliable agricultural animals in Ancient Asia.
However, these positive aspects come with negative traits like stubbornness and unwillingness to adapt to the situation like the rat.
Tiger (Tora): 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974
Tigers, known for their beauty, boldness, and confidence, are highly significant in Asian cultures. People born in the year of the tiger are adventurous, passionate, and brave. They make great leaders, but can also be unpredictable, hot-tempered, and impulsive.
Rabbit (Usagi): 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975
The rabbit is one of the most popular animals in the zodiac, and people born this year have several positive traits. They are gentle, artistic, and compassionate, since rabbits were thought to love beauty and have a keen sense of intuition.
People born this year also avoid conflict, which may make them vulnerable to trickery, manipulation, or coercion.
Dragon (Tatsu): 2024, 2012, 2000. 1988, 1976
The dragon is one of the most iconic animals in the Japanese zodiac, carrying a presence that’s felt all around them — they love the limelight. People that fall under this sign are powerful, charismatic, and inspiring. They are also generous, and it’s said that the dragon arrived late to the zodiac party because it stopped on the way to help people.
Sometimes, this strong personality may also mean they are short-tempered and unpredictable.
Snake (Hebi): 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977
In Western culture, the snake is associated with negative traits, since it’s said to have tricked Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. However, in the Japanese zodiac, the snake has positive traits, such as wisdom, grace, and intuition.
Snakes are also deep thinkers who approach life with a strategic mindset. So they are often successful in money matters and financially lucky. However, their quiet nature may make them seem indifferent and cold.
Horse (Uma): 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978
Horses are associated with enthusiasm, energy, and a love for freedom. People born this year are dynamic, friendly, and adventurous. They embrace change and are known for their outgoing nature.
However, they may be quick-tempered and impatient. Also, their outgoing nature may overwhelm other zodiac signs.
Sheep (Itsuji): 2027, 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979
Sheep or goats are the most artistically gifted in the zodiac signs and are known for their love for beauty. People born in the Year of the Sheep are kind, gentle, and creative. They also value peace and are known for their nurturing personalities.
But this gentle nature may lead to a lack of conviction or indecisiveness.
Monkey (Saru): 2028, 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980
This is another interesting animal known as the erratic genius. People born under this sign are curious, playful, and intelligent. They are also quick learners and can solve complex problems with ease.
But these people can also be short-sighted and inconsiderate of the consequences of their actions on themselves and the people around them.
Rooster (Tori): 2029, 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981
Those born in the Year of the Rooster are confident, hardworking, and punctual. They have a keen sense of responsibility and aren’t afraid to speak their mind. Also, they have a keen attention to detail and if they want to achieve something, they put all their effort into it.
However, this meticulous approach may sometimes fail, leaving them very disappointed.
Dog (Inu): 2030, 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982
These people are loyal, honest, and protective. It may take time to trust others, but once they form that bond, people born this year are reliable since they form lasting bonds with those around them.
However, their honest traits may cause conflict with others. Plus, they may also be stubborn.
Pig (I or Buta): 2031, 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983
Pigs also have negative traits in some cultures, but not in the Japanese zodiac. People born in the Year of the Pig are associated with honesty, genuine affection for the people around them, and great inner strength.
However, these people are quick to anger and may be naive because of their tremendous sincerity.
Takeaway
The Japanese zodiac adds a layer of richness to horoscopes and cultural celebrations. It’s a lighthearted lens that you can use for entertainment and self-reflection. However, it’s important to understand that these traits are not scientific predictors of individual traits.
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