All About the Japanese Zodiac Signs
Written by Team MUSUBI
In Japan, the eto, or Japanese zodiac, for the coming year becomes a topic of conversation at the end of the year. Illustrations and photographs of the 12 animals appear on New Year’s cards, calendars, and various decorations. Fortune-tellers make predictions about the year’s events based on the eto, and some people think personalities are connected to the animal of their birth year.
The Japanese zodiac refers to the system known asjikkan junishi, which consists of ten calendar signs and twelve zodiac signs. It is said that these ten calendar signs and twelve zodiac signs were originally used as a type of calendar in ancient China before the first century, which was later introduced to Japan.
What exactly are the ten calendar signs and the twelve zodiac signs? Many people may not be familiar with the ten calendar signs, which were originally used as a numerical system to count from one to ten. The twelve zodiac signs, on the other hand, are represented by a set of animals that form the basis of the zodiac calendar. The Japanese zodiac combines both the ten calendar signs and the twelve zodiac signs. As the least common multiple of ten and twelve is sixty, this creates a system called the sexagenary cycle, which has sixty unique zodiac signs. In Japan, turning sixty is called kanreki, symbolizing a return to one’s original zodiac sign after completing the sixty-year cycle.
The Japanese zodiac system is believed to have its origins in ancient China. In that tradition, Jupiter, regarded as the most significant planet, takes roughly twelve years to complete its orbit of the celestial sphere. To track Jupiter's position in the sky, each of the twelve divisions was given the name of an animal.
The order of the animals in the twelve signs of the Japanese zodiac is said to come from an ancient legend. The sequence is: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and boar.
In ancient times, it is said that a god decided to gather twelve animals to form the zodiac. The god instructed the animals to meet on January 1, explaining that the order of the zodiac would be determined by the sequence of their arrival. While details vary across versions of the story, the central narrative remains consistent: a rat cleverly jumped off the back of an ox, which was striving to be first, and claimed first place. Meanwhile, a dog and a monkey engaged in a fight for a better position. The cat, however, was deceived by the rat and mistakenly arrived on the wrong date. This story explains why the cat is absent from the twelve signs of the Japanese zodiac.
The Year of the Snake
The zodiac sign for 2025 is the Snake, a symbol of revival and renewal in Japan. Its image of shedding old skin represents new beginnings, growth, and the emergence of life. Historically, the Snake has been revered as a deity of fertility and weather, associated with longevity and a strong life force. Its ability to survive without food also earned it the title of a divine messenger.
Bringing snake motif items into your home can invite renewal and good fortune. Explore our collection to welcome the Year of the Snake with elegance and tradition.
Discover Your Zodiac Animal Items
At MUSUBI KILN, you’ll find items decorated with animal motifs from other zodiac years as well. A figurine of the zodiac animal for your birth year is believed to bring you extra luck. Be sure to read the description for each motif and check out the ones that catch your interest!
Rat/Mouse
Mice have historically been regarded as animals that bring good fortune in Japan. During the Edo period (1603 CE–1868 CE), mice were known as the messengers of Daikokuten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods originally rooted in Indian mythology. Additionally, because mice are known for having many offspring, they are also seen as symbols of prosperity and family growth.
Ox
The ox is one of the oldest companions of humankind and has played a vital role in agriculture and transportation throughout history. In Japan, oxen are also considered the messengers of Tenjin, the deity of learning. Statues of oxen can be found at many Tenmangu shrines, including the famous Dazaifu Tenmangu in Kyushu. Their hardworking and diligent nature makes them enduring symbols of sincerity and honesty.
Tiger
In Asian cultures, the tiger has long been seen as an emblem of power and dignity. At the same time, tigers are known for their strong bond with their cubs, caring for them with great affection. Inspired by this nurturing trait, Japanese people have traditionally given tiger-themed toys to children as a wish for their healthy growth. Although tigers are not native to Japan, they have been a familiar and beloved motif in Japanese art and culture for centuries.
Rabbit
The rabbit has long been regarded as an auspicious animal, believed to bring good luck with its lively jumps and attract good fortune with its long ears. The rabbit is also considered a symbol of peace and safety in the home because of its gentle, calm appearance. Arranging your table with rabbit-themed items is a charming way to bring good fortune into your daily life and home.
Dragon
The dragon is the only mythical creature among the twelve zodiac animals. In Japan, the dragon has long been revered as a deity of water and the sea, with a belief that its appearance is a sign of auspicious events. Thought to be responsible for natural phenomena such as tornadoes, lightning, and rainbows, the dragon serves as a powerful emblem of the vibrant and awe-inspiring energy of the natural world.
Horse
Horses have had a close relationship with humans since ancient times. They have been valuable helpers, and in return, people have always treated them with care and respect. Because of this bond, horses are often associated with abundance and prosperity. Known for their strength and vitality, horses also represent the essence of life force. Displaying a horse figurine in the home is thought to bring fame and success, making horses a cherished motif in Japanese culture.
Sheep
Sheep have shared a deep connection with humans for thousands of years, even appearing in ancient texts such as the Nihon Shoki. Domesticated for over 10,000 years, sheep are admired for their strong social bonds and flocking nature, which have led them to represent family harmony and enduring peace.
In Christianity, sheep are considered messengers of God, with lambs often representing the "Lamb of God," a symbol of purity and divinity. In China, sheep have been valued alongside oxen as important livestock animals, playing a significant role in agriculture.
Monkey
Monkeys hold a significant place in Japanese culture, with the Three Wise Monkeys of Nikko Toshogu Shrine ("see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil") being particularly famous. Known for their intelligence, monkeys are traditionally regarded as messengers of the mountain gods.
Rooster
The rooster has been highly esteemed in Japan as a symbol of good fortune and wealth. Additionally, the rooster’s crow at dawn signals the arrival of a new day, leading people to view it as a sacred creature that guides the world from darkness into the light of the sun.
Dog
In Japan, dogs were depicted as early as the Choju-giga, a famous set of four picture scrolls from Kozan-ji temple in Kyoto. Their cute and stylized appearance has charmed people for centuries. In recent years, Japanese breeds like Shiba Inu and Akita Inu have gained worldwide popularity. Why not bring a touch of their charm to your dining table for a delightful addition?
Boar
The boar has been highly valued in Japan for its fearless charge, symbolizing the power to overcome any obstacle or misfortune. Additionally, because boars are prolific breeders, they have been cherished as a good-luck charm for abundant harvests and prosperity.
A Japanese zodiac home decoration is a good-luck talisman believed to protect the family and ensure safety throughout the year. From traditional designs to modern styles, there are many options to suit contemporary homes. Why not decorate your home this year with zodiac-themed items to ward off bad luck and welcome good fortune?
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