Vietnamese Zodiac plays a key role in traditional local culture, special birthdays, or pretty much any sort of anniversaries are celebrated in twelve-year cycles linked to the signs of the zodiac. Similar to the Chinese zodiac there are twelve animals each representing a year.

The origins of Vietnamese astrology, including the Vietnamese zodiac and horoscope, date back to 1645 BC, drawing influence from the 12 zodiac signs first developed by ancient Babylonian astrologers. Ancient astrology conceptualized the zodiac as a 360-degree circle, divided into 12 equal branches, each representing an arc of 30 degrees. These 12 branches correspond to the 12 months of the year, aligning the zodiac with the annual calendar system.

The zodiac signs are equally divided based on the four primary elements of the heavens and earth: Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth. In essence, the zodiac signs correspond to the four seasons of the year. Each group, consisting of three elements, shares similar characteristics. For precise zodiac interpretations, one may use a Vietnamese zodiac calculator

Animals of the Vietnamese Zodiac & The 12 year cycle

The use of 12 zodiac signs & elements is to predict the character, life as well as career & romance, the horoscope in Vietnam has become very popular in the cultural life of  every Vietnamese. Which zodiac do you belong to? You want to discover the mysteries of how you and your life will progress in the future?

Although old traditions may not be as strong as they once were, most Vietnamese know their zodiac animal & signs. They typically also know the day of the week they were born and their associated ‘lucky colour,’ often linked to astrology elements.

Unlocking 12 Vietnamese zodiac elements: Origin & Animal signs

It’s all about the astrology & usual vague horoscope that predictions ‘expect new opportunities’ or ‘you will go to a place and do a thing’ and provides an astrological exploration of the symbols and archetypes that define the reader’s sun sign. Animal signs and meaning of each zodiac sign—and what they reveal about your personality.

Year Of Rat – Clever & quick-witted

The Rat represents smart and quick witted – is the first of all animals in the Vietnamese zodiac. According to myth, when the Jade Emperor sought palace guards, he announced a competition among the animals to determine their order. The rat animal sign, known for its cleverness. In Vietnamese astrology, Rats are regarded as quick-witted, intelligent, and adept at getting what they want. As the first sign, they are associated with yang energy and the early hours after midnight, symbolising the start of a new day.

If you were born in 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996 or 2008 you were born during the Year of the Rat.

The Buffalo – symbolizing hard work and patience

Those were born in 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997 & 2009, are belong to the year of buffalo as a zodiac animal (Year of the Ox).

In Vietnamese zodiac, those with the buffalo sign are known for their hard-work and reliability. Honest and earnest, they often prefer working in the background without seeking attention or praise. Despite their modesty, they are consistently recognized for their hard work, even though they tend to downplay their talents. Humble leaders!

Year of Tiger – brave & intelligence

If you were born in 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998 or 2010, you were born during the Year of the Tiger.

The Vietnamese Zodiac referencing to over 2,000 years to the Qin Dynasty in China, is deeply rooted in zoolatry (animal worship). According to legend, a “Great Race.” The Year of the Tiger is symbol of confident in winning but ended up third after being outsmarted by the clever Rat and hardworking Ox. Tigers are fiercely competitive, known for their courage and ambition. Though they strive to succeed, they are also generous and driven by a strong sense of justice, always seeking to help others.

Cat animal sign – Talent & goal achieving

If you were born in 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023 & 2035, you were born during the Year of the Cat, only in Vietnamese calendar.

The Cat is the 4th animal symbol in the 12-year cycle of the Vietnamese zodiac, and Gurung zodiac, taking place of the Rabbit in the Chinese zodiac. As such, the traits associated with the Rabbit are attributed to the Cat.

Honest & dynamic –  The year of the Dragon

According to the Vietnamese zodiac years & chart, those were born in years of 1964, 1976 , 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024 & 2036 are belonging to the animal zodiac sign of Dragon.

In both Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, the dragon is revered as a mystical creature. However, according to the Mường tribes of northwest Vietnam, dragons were once real animals living underwater, feeding on carrion. Over time, dragons were deified, becoming the most revered of all holy creatures in the East.

In Vietnamese zodiac beliefs, those born in the Year of the Dragon are seen as naturally gifted but often arrogant and insensitive. As a symbol of royalty, the dragon is frequently linked to palaces and royal robes. Will lead financially comfortable lives & dragon individuals balance their grand ambitions with life’s mundane details, they can achieve true greatness.

Snake on Vietnamese Zodiac animals

Based on Vietnamese zodiac animals, those were born in years of 1965 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037 are belonging to the animal zodiac sign of Snake.

While snakes are often linked to danger, their venom and skin have proven valuable in traditional medicine. People born under the Vietnam zodiac animal of the snake year are known for their luck, one of the sign’s most distinctive traits. Additionally, those born in the Year of the Snake possess exceptional charm. If you fall in love with a snake woman, it can be difficult to break free from the relationship due to her captivating allure.

The Goat zodiac sign

The Vietnamese zodiac signs for those were born in years of 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027 & 2039 are related to the year of the Goat.

People born in the Year of the Goat sign typically exhibit a calm and humble demeanor, along with a reserved nature. Though they may struggle in roles requiring extensive communication or eloquence due to occasional awkwardness in speech, their natural compassion and readiness to help others stand out. Their kindness often becomes one of their greatest strengths, making them highly valued in personal and professional relationships.

Horse Zodiac

If you were born on one of he 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026 & 2038, your animal zodiac sign belongs to the Horse.

Horses once played a key role in transportation in Vietnamese society. People born under the horse sign zodiac are meant to be constantly on the move. They are often generous and maintain a large circle of friends, whom they treat like family. Independence is highly important to horse individuals, and their confidence helps them succeed in life.

Year of the Monkey

Year of the Monkey is for those were born on one of he 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028 & 2040.

A person born in the Year of the Monkey has a cheerful, lively personality that easily brings smiles to anyone around them. As a zodiac animal sign closely resembling humans, monkeys are known for their intelligence and eagerness to explore new experiences. Those were born in the year of Monkey could fit in various fields, yet they remain content with their achievements and rarely compare themselves to those with more wealth.

The Year of Rooster

Rooster animal sign with confident and diligent personality is referred to those were born on years of 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029 and 2041.

In Vietnamese astrology and horoscope, the rooster sign holds significant importance, being one of the animals that govern human life and is often used in religious offerings during festivals and funerals. People with rooster sign are known for their mischievous nature, which can sometimes lead to trouble. They may struggle to control their temper when provoked, but those who master this challenge often excel in many areas. Check out Religion in Vietnam

Year of the Dog

Those who were born on the year of the dog are belong to years of 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030 & 2042.

The dog sign is revered for its loyalty & being best in companionships and those born under the dog zodiac are known for their trustworthiness and are often entrusted with secrets others might hesitate to share.

Individuals with dog horoscope  tend to worry unnecessarily, which can make them anxious and irritable. If you’re dating someone born under the dog sign, patience is key—give them time to adjust and build trust with you, as trust is essential for them.

In Vietnamese tradition, many dog zodiac peoples face challenges in relationships & marriages. It is believed that a dog sign groom should visit and bring the bride home twice to ensure a harmonious marriage and avoid future marital issues.

Pig signs & horoscope

If you was born on the year of the pig are belong to kind and generous groups of people from the years of 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031 and 2043.

The year of the pig zodiac sign, where individuals maintain a positive outlook in nearly every situation tend to be carefree, viewing life as a beautiful, rosy-colored experience with food as a top priority. Known for their generous and forgiving nature, they easily let go of grievances if given an apology. While their honesty and optimism might not always lead to as much success as other zodiac signs, pig individuals don’t mind—they happily live in their cheerful, pink-tinted world.

12 Vietnamese Zodiac Signs: Dates, Personality Traits & Meanings

Aries in Vietnamese Zodiac Horoscope (March 21 – April 19)

Date of Birth: March 21 -April 19

Strength: hopeful, active, energetic, honest, versatile, brave, adventurous, passionate, generous, cheerful, argumentative, curious.

Weakness: impulsive, naive, self-willed, belligerent, impatient.

Symbol: Ram

Element: Fire

Sign Ruler: Mars

Lucky Color: Red

Lucky Number: 5

Jewelry: Ruby

Best Match: Leo, Sagittarius and Aries

Taurus Zodiac (April 20 – May 20)

Date of Birth: April 20 – May 20

Strength: romantic, decisive, logical, diligent, ardent, patient, talented in art, perseverant, benevolent.

Weakness: prejudiced, dependent, stubborn

Symbol: Bull

Element: Earth

Sign Ruler: Venus

Lucky Color: Pink

Lucky Number: 6

Jewelry: Emerald, Jade

Best Match: Capricorn, Virgo and Taurus

Gemini Zodiac (May 21 – June 20)

Date of Birth: May 21 – June 21

Strength: multifarious, perspicacious, smart, cheerful, quick-witted, clement, charming.

Weakness: fickle, gossipy, amphibian

Symbol: Twins

Element: Air

Sign Ruler: Mercury

Lucky Color: Yellow

Lucky Number: 7

Jewelry: Opal

Best Match: Aquarius, Libra and Gemini

Cancer Zodiac (June 21 – July 22)

Date of Birth: June 21 – July 22

Strength: with strong sixth sense, subjective, gentle, swift, imaginative, careful, dedicated, perseverant, kind, caring.

Weakness: greedy, possessive, sensitive, prim

Symbol: Crab

Element: Water

Sign Ruler: Moon

Lucky Color: Green

Lucky Number: 2

Jewelry: Pearl

Best Match: Pisces, Scorpio and Cancer

Leo zodiac (July 23 – August 22)

Date of Birth: July 23 – August 22

Strength: proud, charitable, reflective, loyal and enthusiastic
Weakness: arrogant, vainglorious, indulgent, wasteful, willful, and self-complacent

Symbol: Lion

Element: Fire

Sign Ruler: Sun

Lucky Colors: Red, Gold, Yellow

Lucky Number: 19

Jewelry: Gold

Best Match: Aries, Sagittarius and Leo

Virgo zodiac elements (August 23 – September 22)

Date of Birth: August 23 – September 22

Strength: helping, elegant, perfectionist, modest, practical, clearheaded, Weakness: picky, nosey, tortuous, confining

Symbol: Virgin maiden

Element: Earth

Sign Ruler: Mercury

Lucky Color: Gray

Lucky Number: 7

Jewelry: Sapphire, Amber

Best Match: Sagittarius, Taurus and Gemini

Libra horoscope (September 23 – October 22)

Date of Birth: September 23 – October 22

Strength: idealistic, equitable, just, strong social skills, aesthetic, charming, artistic, beautiful, kind-hearted

Weakness: hesitant, narcissistic, lazy, perfunctory, freewheeling

Symbol: Scales

Element: Air

Sign Ruler: Venus

Lucky Color: Brown

Lucky Number: 3

Jewelry: Coral, Amber

Best Match: Aquarius, Gemini and Libra

Scorpio zodiac elements (October 23 – November 21)

Date of Birth: October 24 – November 21

Strength: mysterious, rational, intelligent, independent, intuitive, dedicated, insightful, charming, sensible

Weakness: suspicious, fanatical, complicated, possessive, arrogant, self-willed, extreme

Symbol: Scorpion

Element: Water

Sign Ruler: Pluto, Mars

Lucky Colors: Purple, Black

Lucky Number: 4

Jewelry: Jasper, Black Crystal

Best Match: Cancer, Capricorn and Pisces

Sagittarius horoscope (November 22 – December 21)

Date of Birth: November 22 – December 21

Strength: excellent, intelligent, practical, reliable, perseverant, generous, optimistic, cute, persistent

Weakness: stubborn, lonely, and suspicious

Symbol: Goat

Element: Earth

Sign Ruler: Saturn

Lucky Colors: Brown, Black, Dark Green

Lucky Number: 4

Jewelry: Black Jade

Best Match: Virgo, Taurus and Pisces

Capricorn zodiac elements (December 22 – January 19)

Date of Birth: November 22 – December 21

Strength: Responsible, Discipline, Self-control & Good managers

Weakness: Pessimism, Greed & Stubbornness

Symbol: Sea goat

Element zodiac: Earth

Sign Ruler: Saturn

Zodiac power colors: Gray

Lucky Number: 6, 9 and 8

Jewelry: Garnet stone

Best Match: Virgo make one of the most harmonious pairings in the zodiac, and is probably the Capricorn best match.

Aquarius horoscope and elements (January 20 – February 18)

Date of Birth: January 20 – February 18

Strength: original, tolerant, ideal, calm, friendly, charitable, independent, smart, practical

Weakness: changeful, disobedient, liberalistic, hasty, rebel

Symbol: Water carrier

Element: Air

Sign Ruler: Uranus

Lucky Color: Bronze

Best matched Number: 22

Jewelry: Black Pearl

The best Match: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius

Pisces zodiac & horoscopes (February 19 – March 20)

Date of Birth: February 19 – March 20

Strength: conscious, aesthetic, platonic, dedicated, kind, with good temper

Weakness: recessive, sentimental, indecisive, unrealistic

Symbol: Fish

Element: Water

Sign Ruler: Neptune

Lucky Color: White

The Lucky Number: 11

Jewelry: Ivory Stone

The Best Match: Scorpio, Cancer and Capricorn

How to Calculate Zodiac Ages in Vietnam

In Vietnam, calculating “Zodiac Ages” refers to determining age based on the lunar calendar (âm lịch) and the 12-animal zodiac cycle (twelve-year cycle). This traditional method often results in a different age calculation than the typical Western system, where age is counted based on birthdays in the Gregorian calendar.

Steps to Calculate Zodiac Age in Vietnam

Find the birth year in the Lunar calendar: In Vietnam, people’s ages are often counted by the lunar calendar rather than the solar (Gregorian) calendar. To calculate a person’s age, you first need to find the Vietnamese lunar year of birth. Each year corresponds to one of the 12 animals of the zodiac (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig), repeating every 12 years.

Add one year to their Western age: In Vietnam, a person is traditionally considered to be one year old at birth, which means that their “lunar age” (tuổi mụ) is typically one year older than their actual age. This is because the Vietnamese believe that a child has already lived for a certain period in the womb.

Add one year to their Western age

In Vietnam, a person is traditionally considered to be one year old at birth, which means that their “lunar age” (tuổi mụ) is typically one year older than their actual age. This is because the Vietnamese believe that a child has already lived for a certain period in the womb.

Identify the current year’s Zodiac animal: Each year in the lunar calendar is represented by an animal from the 12-year cycle. By knowing the birth year and its corresponding animal sign, you can trace the person’s age relative to the current animal sign.