The Chinese horoscope is based on the movement of the moon, which explains the origin of the term "lunar year". A lunar year does not necessarily last for 365 days - the moon needs 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 2 seconds to circumnavigate the earth. Therefore a lunar month last 29 or 30 days, but never 31 days. Thus, according to the western calendar, the Chinese New Year never falls on the same day from one year to the next. The actual date can always be located at the end of January or the beginning of February.

Chinese astrology has a cycle of twelve years, each one represented by twelve animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. Why have these specific animals been chosen? According to the legend, the Buddha invited all the animals in the world to come to a meeting one day. Only twelve animals answered the invitation and appeared before the Buddha. In order, these animals were the rat, ox, tiger and so on. The Buddha decided to show gratitude for the presence of the animals by awarding each a year in its name.

In addition, there are five elements which have an important influence upon our lives: metal, wood, water, fire and earth. Our universe consists of these elements. Thus, we assign an element to each sign, resulting in a cycle of sixty years (12 X 5). Each year associated with an element will return only once every sixty years. For example, the year 1989 is the year of earth snake; the year 2001 will be the year of metal snake, and the year of earth snake will reappear only in 2049.

Generally speaking, Chinese astrology plays an important part in the daily lives of all Asians, particularly the Chinese and Southeast Asians. Whether concerned about a marriage, a move or the opening of a business, people consistently look to astrology when seeking a lucky date for these activities. In terms of marriage, people must find a partner with a compatible astrological sign. This is a serious matter which has torn apart many couples. A tradition which has survived for thousands of years is still the current practice.