Frequently asked questions

What is the Japanese zodiac (eto)?

Eto is a cycle of 12 animals that repeats every 12 years. Japan pairs it with 10 stems, which makes a 60-year cycle called kanshi.

Does the eto year start on 1 January?

In everyday Japanese use, yes. The Chinese zodiac starts at Lunar New Year, so people born in January or February may have a different Chinese animal.

What is Kanreki?

Kanreki is the 60th birthday, when the 60-year cycle returns to the birth year. It is traditionally celebrated with red clothing.

What is Hinoe-uma?

Hinoe-uma (丙午, Fire Horse) comes every 60 years, most recently in 1966 and again in 2026. A superstition about it caused a sharp drop in Japanese births in 1966.