The five elements
The Chinese zodiac also uses five elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water – which combine with the animals to create a sixty-year cycle. So someone might be a “Fire Horse” or a “Water Rabbit”. Each element is said to add its own flavour: Wood is growth, Fire is passion, Earth is stability, Metal is determination and Water is wisdom.
Compatibility in the Chinese zodiac
Traditional Chinese astrology groups the animals into four “trines” – groups of three that are said to get along naturally – for example Rat, Dragon and Monkey, or Ox, Snake and Rooster. As with Western astrology, these are traditional ideas meant for reflection and fun.
Western and Chinese together
Many people enjoy combining both systems: an “Aries Dragon” or a “Pisces Rabbit”. It is a playful way to build a more detailed picture of your personality.
Find your animal and element instantly with our Chinese Zodiac Calculator – just enter your birth year.
