Celebrating the Spring Festival in Beijing offers a view of numerous transformations in the populace, the surroundings, and the city’s overall vibe. A palpable tension and buzz of anticipation fill the air from the frenzy of preparations, but this sense of anxiety is really rooted in excitement — the opportunity to reunite with loved ones and enjoy a much-needed respite. The city is adorned with lanterns and lights, and many will start to notice a familiar animal emerging. The Chinese zodiac plays a captivating role in the culture during the Spring Festival, so let’s delve into its origins and explore its profound history!
In ancient China, the Earthly Branches (地支 dìzhī) were used to segment the 24 hours of each day. The time was split into 12 two-hour intervals, with an animal representing each period. Furthermore, a specific animal corresponds to each month, and these animals are the same ones that appear in the Chinese zodiac to denote each year.
The Great Race
The Great Race is a traditional Chinese folktale passed down through generations, likely to introduce the Earthly Branches to children. There are various renditions of this tale, but essentially, it tells the story of how the Jade Emperor invited all animals to race across the river to reach his palace. The first 12 animals to cross would earn a spot in the zodiac. According to the story, the rat secured first place by requesting the ox to carry it across the river, along with the cat. However, the cat fell off and drowned, which many Chinese believe is why cats dislike rats.
The ox finished a close second, utilizing its strength to cross the river. The tiger swam swiftly to take third place, while the rabbit jumped over rocks to secure fourth. In fifth place was the dragon, which flew across the river, although according to the tale, it stopped to help some people and animals along the way. The snake managed to catch a ride on the horse's leg, surprising it just enough to finish sixth, ahead of the horse in seventh. The goat, monkey, and rooster collaborated to build a raft, placing them in eighth, ninth, and tenth positions, respectively. The dog placed eleventh after getting distracted and playing in the water, and finally, the pig came in last because it took a nap following a meal.
This delightful tale is shared each year during the Spring Festival, especially in schools. Although it is an entertaining story seemingly aimed at children, it carries deep philosophical and symbolic meanings. The manner in which each animal reaches the emperor’s palace reflects its character, and individuals born in each year are believed to embody the same traits as their zodiac animal. Themes of teamwork, adaptability, and resourcefulness also emerge in this narrative. Despite their differences, all animals gained the reward of arriving at the Jade Emperor’s palace.
Zodiac Polarity and Elements
This year marks the Year of the Snake. Known for being stealthy, wise, resourceful, mysterious, and intuitive, the snake’s characteristics are influenced by its polarity (yin/yang), which alternates yearly, and its associated element. Yang polarity represents active energy, while yin denotes a more passive nature. The snake’s primary polarity is yin, indicating a subtle, introverted, and calm energy.
Additionally, the elements contribute to the traits of each animal. Earth embodies stability and grounding; water signifies intuition and flexibility; metal symbolizes strength and resilience, while fire represents passion and vitality. Lastly, wood is associated with gentleness and cooperation. However, the snake also has another element based on the year. The primary element for the snake is fire, which lends it ambition and determination. Yet for 2025, we will see a wood snake even though fire is its main element. This is due to the allocation of the five elements to each year, changing every two years. For instance, 2024 and 2025 are wood years, while 2022 and 2023 were water years. Fire years will follow with 2026 and 2027. This cycle is significant in Chinese culture, marking a major milestone at the age of 60, which is celebrated with a grand event.
The Significance of the Chinese Zodiac
So, how do people utilize this information? The Chinese zodiac serves more than just a festive entry into the New Year. Many individuals consult the zodiac for matchmaking, fortune-telling, selecting auspicious dates for events such as business openings and weddings, and even for choosing the ideal year for childbirth. The Year of the Dragon is regarded as particularly lucky and prestigious, with a history of increased birth rates during dragon years, though it’s notable that 2024 may not follow this trend.
Not every Chinese person strictly adheres to these traditional practices, but a sufficient number do so to influence societal behaviors. Conversations with friends, coworkers, and family members revealed that those from smaller towns or villages often plan their wedding dates around the zodiac, while long-time residents of Beijing tend
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Beginning at the Great Wall and concluding with a nightcap at a bar with views of the Forbidden City, Preston Thomas' 24 hours in Beijing are filled with a diverse range of experiences.
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The Chinese Zodiac is a fascinating aspect of the culture during the Spring Festival, so let’s explore its origins and uncover its rich history!