The Japanese zodiac, called Eto, is a traditional system based on a 12-year cycle, where each year is represented by an animal.Unlike Western astrology, which is based on months and star signs, the Japanese zodiac is based on the year you are born.The zodiac sign for 2026 is the Year of the Horse.
The 12 Animals
In order, they are:Rat → Ox → Tiger → Rabbit → Dragon → Snake → Horse → Sheep → Monkey → Rooster → Dog → Boar
Each animal repeats every 12 years.
Why it Matters in Japan
The Eto is still used in everyday life:
- New Year cards show that year’s animal
- Shrines sell animal charms for luck
- People believe your animal reflects personality traits
It’s less like strict fortune-telling and more like a cultural tradition that connects people to time and nature.
Twelve Eto Guardian Deities in Japan
A Cultural Guide for Travelers
In Japan, many people believe that each birth year of the 12-animal Eto has a special Buddhist guardian deity. This tradition is called “Eto Mamori Honzon” and is especially popular when visiting temples for blessings, protection, or good luck.
If you know your Eto animal, you can visit the temple and pray to your personal guardian Buddha for success, health, and peace of mind.
Eto Animals and Their Guardian Deities
| Zodiac | Guardian Deity | Meaning / Blessings |
|---|---|---|
| Rat | Senju Kannon | Protection, compassion |
| Ox & Tiger | Kokūzō Bosatsu | Wisdom, memory, intelligence |
| Rabbit | Monju Bosatsu | Learning, knowledge |
| Dragon & Snake | Fugen Bosatsu | Virtue, action, success |
| Horse | Seishi Bosatsu | Insight, clear judgment |
| Sheep & Monkey | Dainichi Nyorai | Universal protection, truth |
| Rooster | Fudō Myōō | Protection from evil, strength |
| Dog & Boar | Amida Nyorai | Peace, salvation, comfort |
How Travelers Can Experience This Tradition
Find Your Zodiac Sign
Your zodiac sign is based on the year (not month) you were born.
Visit a Temple
Find and visit a temple that enshrines the guardian deity statue corresponding to your zodiac sign.
Make a Prayers
Bow lightly, clasp your hands together, and silently express gratitude for your daily life.
Temple Etiquette
Speak quietly; avoid conversations on mobile phones or other devices.
Refrain from photography as much as possible; do not use flash.
If other visitors are present, line up and wait your turn to worship.
Why This Is Special
Unlike Western astrology, which focuses on personality traits, the Japanese zodiac guardian system emphasizes spiritual protection and guidance throughout life.
Traveler Insight:
If you want a meaningful cultural experience beyond sightseeing, visiting your zodiac guardian at a temple is a memorable and personal way to connect with Japanese spirituality.
People Also Ask about Japanese Zodiac (Eto)
How do I find my Japanese zodiac sign?
Check your birth year and match it to the zodiac animal cycle.
Can you tell someone’s age from their zodiac sign?
You can estimate age differences because the cycle repeats every 12 years.
What is this year’s zodiac animal?
Each year has one animal. Check a zodiac calendar for the current year’s sign.
Does the zodiac change on January 1?
Traditionally it changes around Lunar New Year, but in modern Japan it usually follows January 1.
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