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Japanese Shrine Gate

Discover Japanese Culture

The 12 Japanese
Zodiac Animals

Jûnishi, the twelve signs of the Japanese zodiac are borrowed from the Chinese lunar calendar.  Although the present day Chinese have adopted the Western Calendar,  the twelve signs of the zodiac related to it are still very present in Japanese culture.

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History

Traditional Japanese Gate

An image of the sun surrounded by a calendar showing seasons and the symbols of the zodiac that appear on the title page of an 1814 almanac written by Nathanael Low, M.D., and published by Munroe and Francis in Boston, Mass.VCG Wilson—Bettmann Archive

History of Zodiac Signs

Humans have long used the stars to help them plan their lives. The use of the sky as a calendar by farmers dates back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians, who saw the rising of Sirius, the Dog Star, in mid-July as a sign of the impending annual flooding of the Nile. Following the stars in the sky served as a compass for travelers deciding where to go. In addition, a lot of people looked to the heavens for mystical guidance. 

Numerous ancient cultures' belief systems contain some sort of astrology. Although it's believed that these signs had less bearing on other people's lives, in ancient China, noblemen read eclipses or sunspots as omens of good or bad times for their emperor.

The origins of the Japanese Zodiac beliefs are derived from the Chinese concept of the zodiac and the adoption of the twelve-year cycle. The Japanese zodiac animals are a collection of ancient Chinese calendar symbols that were brought to Japan. Based on Jupiter's orbit, which takes the planet almost twelve earth years to complete, each animal stands for a year in a twelve-year cycle. The cyclical order of these animals, which are still used as symbols today, is as follows: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and boar. A Japanese zodiac animal was believed to be associated with particular personality qualities that affected the personality of anyone born in that year.

The Junishi was introduced into Japan around the 4th c. A.D. Juni means “twelve” in Japanese, the zodiac is referred to as juni-shi, “the twelve branches”, because of the cycle of twelve years.

The Animals

The 12 animals of the Japanese zodiac system and their specific character traits

🐀 Rat ネズミ(nezumi) :  The rat symbolizes intelligence and charm. It’s renowned for strategic thinking. Those born under this sign shine brightly, with intelligence and charm that gives them leadership skills. Their innovative strategies are widely admired, and they are often liked and praised by those around them. What sets them apart is their focus and rapid decision-making.

🐂 Ox 牛 (ushi) : The Ox epitomizes hard work and the fruits it bears. Representing diligence and trustworthiness, ox-born individuals are the bedrock of their communities. They’re patient, determined, and tenacious. Once they set their mind on something, they pursue it with unmatched determination. Their presence brings stability, and people often seek their counsel.

🐯 Tiger 虎 (tora) : The Tiger represents strength and dynamic energy. Those born under this sign are adventurous. Their charisma is magnetic. People are drawn to them and they are often well-liked by their peers, and often find themselves in positions of influence. They’re brave, both in mind and body. They face challenges with fresh, innovative approaches. Yet, their attitude can sometimes lead to hasty choices. Above all, they champion justice, always standing up for what they believe in.

🐰 Rabbit 兎 (usagi) The Rabbit embodies grace, kindness, and fortune. A symbol of peace and diplomacy, and it has its own unique charm. Those born under this sign are gentle and wise. Their calmness is unmatched. They’re excellent mediators, thanks to their thoughtful approach – their intuition guides them. They read social cues effortlessly, building strong relationships. Their advice is invaluable – with a sharp intellect lying underneath their calm facade.

🐉 Dragon竜 (tatsu) : The Dragon is a symbol of strength, energy, and mystery. It is known for its grandeur, with a presence that is felt by all around them. Those born under this sign are dynamic and confident. They love the limelight and are not afraid to tackle challenges. Their determination is unwavering. They think outside the box, often bringing fresh perspectives and new ideas. While they’re confident, introspection is also a part of their nature. They seek deeper truths. Their passion is infectious, often inspiring those around them.

🐍 Snake 蛇 (hebi) : The Snake is often revered for wisdom and mystery, it’s been a muse for countless tales. Those born under the Snake sign are perceptive and intuitive. They see patterns others overlook, making them brilliant problem solvers. People trust them and seek their advice. Their exterior might be calm, but deep down they are incredibly complex. They value deep connections, choosing their close ones carefully.

🐴 Horse 馬 (uma) : The Horse is the embodiment of freedom in the zodiac. It’s the seventh animal in the Japanese zodiac chart. It’s all about spirited adventure, quick thinking, and action. Horse-born individuals are vivacious and cherish their independence. They make decisions swiftly, thriving in fast-paced scenarios. Their energy is contagious, often making them the life of the party. Exploration drives them, and adventure calls to them. Despite this, amidst their free spirit, they remain deeply loyal to their loved ones.

🐏 Sheep 羊 (hitsuji) : The Sheep is the zodiac’s artist and is the eighth Japanese zodiac sign. The sheep is a symbol of tranquillity and beauty. Those born under this sign see art everywhere. They’re imaginative, creative, and compassionate. They are often capable of transforming the mundane into the extraordinary. They listen with empathy, making them well respected and confided in by those close to them. Their sensitivity is both a gift and a vulnerability. Artistic pursuits call to them, offering an escape from their troubles and problems.

🐵  Monkey 猿 (saru) : The Monkey, “Saru”, is the ninth Japanese zodiac sign. Bursting with energy, cleverness, and adaptability, monkeys are innovators. Their curiosity is insatiable. Those born under this sign are sharp, often making swift decisions. They’re problem solvers, connecting dots others miss. Always learning and growing, their charm is magnetic, often lighting up gatherings. They’re sociable yet tenacious, and competitive when the situation demands. Their versatility is their strength, juggling tasks with flair.

🐓 Rooster 鶏 (tori) : The Rooster is the tenth Japanese zodiac sign, symbolizing dawn and fresh beginnings. Beyond timekeeping, Roosters are hard workers. Sincere and grounded, those born under this sign are meticulous. They value truth, speaking candidly. They’re reliable, with a clear-eyed view of reality. While they’re goal-driven, they also cherish genuine interactions. Their directness is their hallmark, often cutting through pretense.


🐶 Dog 犬 (inu) : The Dog is loyalty personified in the zodiac. It’s the eleventh animal in the Japanese zodiac signs. Representing trustworthiness and justice, those born under this sign are steadfast. They have a strong moral compass and are loyal to the core. They stand by you, prioritizing loved ones. Their honesty makes them pillars of trust. Calm yet intuitive, they fiercely protect their pack. Their commitment to justice is unwavering, making them invaluable teammates.

🐗 Boar 猪 (inoshishi) : The Boar concludes the zodiac with a flourish. It’s the twelfth and final Japanese zodiac sign. Symbolizing courage, tenacity, and resilience. Boar-born individuals are brave, honest, and responsible.Their charisma draws people in. They chase goals with unmatched determination. Generosity defines them. They’re trustworthy, forming deep bonds. While they exude strength, they also have a nurturing side, full of compassion.

 

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12 Japanese zodiac signs. Source: rd.com

Japanese zodiac animal year table. Source: Kyoto Asahiya

The 12 eto depicted in order on the ceiling of the front gate of Osaka’s Tenmangū Shrine. (© Pixta)

The 12 eto depicted in order on the ceiling of the front gate

of Osaka’s Tenmangū Shrine. (© Pixta)

Gallery

Bibliography

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