Japanese Zodiac Calculator
Your eto sign, element and compatible years.
Enter your values
Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.
Results
- Zodiac animal
- Horse 午
- Element
- Metal (yang 兄)
- Sexagenary position
- 7 of 60
- Same sign years
- 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
- Your next zodiac year
- 2,014
Quick answer
The Japanese zodiac (eto) runs on a 12-animal cycle starting with the Rat; the animal repeats every 12 years and pairs with one of five elements.
animal = (year − 4) mod 12
At a glance
| What it does | Your eto sign, element and compatible years. |
|---|---|
| Category | Fun |
| Inputs needed | Birth year |
| Main output | Zodiac animal |
| Formula | animal = (year − 4) mod 12 |
| Cost | Free — no sign-up, no download |
How to use the Japanese Zodiac Calculator
- 1Enter your birth year in full.
- 2Read your animal sign and element.
- 3Check which years share your sign.
Inputs explained
- Birth year
- Enter the birth year you are working with.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Birth year1990
Results
- Zodiac animalHorse 午
- ElementMetal (yang 兄)
- Sexagenary position7 of 60
- Same sign years1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
- Your next zodiac year2,014
Frequently asked questions
When does the zodiac year start?
Modern Japan uses January 1, while the traditional Chinese calendar starts at the lunar new year in late January or February.
What is the sexagenary cycle?
The 60-year cycle formed by pairing 12 animals with 10 heavenly stems (five elements in yin and yang forms).
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.