Editor's note: The Chinese zodiac, or "shengxiao," consists of 12 animal signs that mark the years. Each animal represents one year in a repeating 12-year cycle, which is calculated based on the Chinese lunar calendar.

The 12 animals, in order, are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. These animals, along with the 10 Heavenly Stems and 12 Earthly Branches, are traditionally believed to significantly influence human personalities, marriages, careers and fortunes, thereby holding great importance in individuals' lives.

Some historians believe the Chinese zodiac took shape during the Han dynasty (206 B.C.-A.D. 220), while others trace its origins back to the Western Zhou dynasty (1046 B.C.-771 B.C.). Throughout its development, the Chinese zodiac has inspired a variety of widely accepted animal-related legends and folktales.

Folktales suggest that the tiger, known as the "King of the Mountain," had no friends and was very lonely. The only animal brave enough to speak to it was the monkey, its neighbor. One day, the tiger fell into a trap, and the monkey came to its rescue, prompting the tiger to repay the monkey's kindness. When the selection of the 12 zodiac animals began, the tiger voted for the monkey because of its wit and wisdom. In traditional Chinese culture, the monkey symbolizes wisdom, agility, flexibility and good luck.

Older generations often believe that people born in the Year of the Monkey are clever, curious, adaptable, sociable and creative, making them well-suited for business, law, training, athletics and acting, as well as roles that require quick thinking and strong interpersonal skills.

The Monkey years include 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028 and 2040.

According to the Chinese lunar calendar, the 2025 Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, falls on Jan. 29, 2025. This day marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake, which will last until Feb. 16, 2026. Since 2025 overlaps with most of the Year of the Snake, it is commonly referred to as such.