The Year of the Dragon in Chinese Astrology

The Chinese zodiac grasps the imagination, with many of us wanting to know our own Chinese zodiac animal sign and who we are compatible with. So, in this article, learn about zodiac Chinese compatibility, what personality traits the Dragon possesses and what other signs the Dragon is best matched with. In this article we will explore

• What is the ‘Year of the Dragon’ in Chinese Astrology?
• Year of the Dragon Personality
• Chinese Astrology Matches with the Dragon
• What are the Year of the Dragon Elements?

The intelligent and driven Dragon is the fifth of the 12 animal signs within the Chinese zodiac and the Dragon’s energy imparts certain traits and compatibilities onto those born under its sign. Knowing this, what is the symbolic meaning of the Year of the Dragon? What does it mean when we relate it to the Five Elements and what other signs make the best match for the Dragon?

What is the ‘Year of the Dragon’ in Chinese Astrology?

The Chinese zodiac is an integral feature of ancient Chinese culture and has existed for over 2000 years. The zodiac is a repeating astrological cycle composed of 12 symbolic animals and the cycle is broken down into yearly increments following the passing of every Chinese New Year, meaning a full zodiac circle takes 12 years. Unlike Western astrology, with each zodiac sign lasting roughly one month, everyone born within the same Chinese calendrical year shares a Chinese zodiac animal. These animal zodiac signs are believed to be fundamental in influencing not just our personality, but also our luck, destiny and other events that may occur in our lives. The animals in the Chinese zodiac include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. These animal signs are also believed to have natural compatibility with some signs and not others.

When is the Year of the Dragon?

The last time it was the Year of the Dragon, it was 2012. Before this, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952 and 1940 were all Dragon years too. The next time will be 2 years from now, on February 11th, 2024.

Year of the Dragon Personality

The Dragon in the Chinese zodiac is interesting as he is the only mythical creature. In Chinese culture too, the Dragon is revered as highly symbolic and is central to many different myths and legends for thousands of years. In fact, it is a common belief amongst the Chinese that they are all descendants of two ancient emperors who were immortalized as dragons upon their death. As such, it is no surprise that the Dragon is a particularly special character within Chinese astrology. Those born under this zodiac sign are considered noble, powerful, ambitious and intelligent. Their traits are said to embody that of the dragon itself in Chinese culture - a figurehead with immense responsibility and importance. Due to these traits, Dragons find that people naturally follow their demands and turn to them for support during difficult times. They exude a calm, kind authority and inspire those who look up to them. With an innate eloquence and brilliant communication skills, Dragons are also able to command a room simply by their words. What's more, Dragons are meticulous when it comes to their goals and ambitions; once they’ve decided on what success looks like to them, they will create a plan of action and stop at nothing to complete it. But with hard work aside, as one of China’s luckiest symbols, good fortune never passes the Dragon by. However, many of the Dragon’s greatest qualities lead to their biggest downfalls. In some ways, Dragons expect success and fortune because of their natural luck, but when fate does not work on their side, they are known to fly off the rails and kick up a fuss. In short, one of the Dragons most toxic traits is expecting life to always go their way. There is a sense of arrogance with these people at times, and as a result, they are subject to some harsh realities at times.

Dragon Woman Personality

The Dragon woman is one of the most fiercely independent of all women in the Chinese zodiac. She suffers when tied down to commitments or expectations as it does not allow her freedom of thought to thrive. At work, she provides innovative ideas rather than sitting back as a wallflower. As such, she easily earns the respect of her peers and can quickly climb the career ladder. This woman knows exactly what she wants and exactly what is good for her, so it is imperative that a partner can respect these qualities when entering into a relationship with her. That said, while some powerful women enjoy the back and forth between themselves and an equally dominant partner, she doesn’t like this competition; she much prefers to take the lead and wear the trousers meaning the Dragon man is probably not her perfect match. Despite her fiercer qualities, the Dragon woman has no problem attracting love. She is dynamic and magnetizing and her sharp intellect is admired by colleagues and suitors alike. She may have a tough exterior, but deep down, the Dragon lady is ready to love unconditionally and be vulnerable with her divine life partner.

Dragon Man Personality

Dragon men are stubborn to say the least. Once they have their mind set on a course of action, they will take it regardless of the repercussions. Luckily though, Dragon men are intelligent and think with others in mind. They are keen to make bold, decisive moves, but always for the betterment of everyone. Success and fame may be the Dragon man’s kryptonite though, as being seen as the best of the best can be allconsuming for this man; he not only wants to see his ambitions come to fruition, but wants everyone else to witness this is in the process. When it comes to love and relationships, the Dragon man is a pretty proficient bachelor. He sees his success with women as a measure of his success overall, so can often be found messaging multiple potentials and serial dating throughout the week. That said, when the Dragon man meets his match, he has no problem cutting ties with his old life and putting his all into the new. The Dragon man loves his partner unconditionally and as he feels it is his duty to care, protect and lead his loved ones, he will jump at the opportunity to take on the role of provider.

Chinese Astrology Matches with the Dragon

The animals of the Chinese zodiac all have intricate and unique couple compatibility with one another. The positioning of each animal on the zodiac wheel is important in shaping these relationships, but in the simplest terms, each animal has between two and four highly compatible matches and between two and four incompatible, ‘unfriendly’ matches. For instance, the Dragon and the Pig are known to make a very strong duo, while the Dragon and the Rabbit don’t fare nearly as well. 

Dragon and Rooster Compatibility

Dragon and Rooster soulmate matches are possible but not guaranteed. For one, these two are similar in many ways as they are both hardworking and resourceful. However, their ambitious personalities can clash with one another as both parties strive to be the relationship’s ‘problem solver’. They both need to let go of the reins a little if there is to be love destiny for these two.

Dragon and Ox Compatibility

Ox Dragon compatibility is challenging but there is plenty of love potential. These two are both intense by nature and can find letting go difficult. However, if the Ox and Dragon learn compromise, their mutual intensity will morph into a fierce devotion that will last a lifetime. When it goes right, these two are the definition of ride or dies.

Dragon and Pig Compatibility

Pig Dragon compatibility works on the basis of their differences. Pigs are warm, loving and quiet in nature while the fiery Dragon is authoritative and confident. What unites these two is their love for their opposite offerings to the relationship. They create a harmonious, loving balance and the opportunity for self-growth for both partners. 

Dragon and Tiger Compatibility

Dragon Tiger compatibility is powerful, competitive and all-consuming. Both zodiac signs exist in the same compatibility triangle and share scarily similar traits - they are quick-thinking, driven and constantly looking to solve problems. These shared characteristics can work nicely in a relationship but you can expect explosive arguments with these two. However, as neither of their feelings are easily bruised, these two are able to bury it and move on with ease. As such, Tiger and Dragon compatibility scores pretty highly.

Dragon and Dog Compatibility

Chinese Dragon and Dog compatibility is strained to say the least. This is because Dogs are impulsive and erratic, whereas the Dragon prefers to use logic and reasoning to come to a conclusion. Dragons are also social and confident creatures, whereas the Dog fares much better in solitude.

Dragon and Rabbit Compatibility

Rabbit Dragon compatibility is mostly hit or miss, especially in the context of a Dragon man - Rabbit woman relationship. This is because the Dragon’s assertive, domineering personality can often fail to nurture their softer, more sensitive Rabbit partner. However, these two may find success if they both make an effort to communicate better.

What are the Year of the Dragon Elements?

Another core component of the Chinese zodiac is that each zodiac year falls under one of the Five Chinese Elements; Wood, Earth, Metal, Water and Fire. Traditional Chinese astrology uses the Five Elements to describe interactions within the universe with the belief that each element influences our personality, love, fate, and destiny. As such, while the year in which we were born corresponds with one of 12 animal zodiac signs, we are also ruled by a particular element. For example, this year is the Year of the Tiger but simultaneously the year of Water. This makes 2022 the year of the Water Tiger.

The Year of the Wood Dragon

February 13th, 1964 - February 1st, 1965

The Wood Dragon is the more contemplative and quiet of all the Dragons. They are strong minded and steadfast with their opinions, but are less likely to shout from the rooftops. Some may see these traits as a sign of an arrogant, aloof character, but in reality, the Wood Dragon has a quiet confidence and is truly humble at heart. That said, these people may struggle with being overly pessimistic at times. They would benefit by looking for the good in all before assuming the worst. 

The Year of the Fire Dragon

January 31st, 1976 - February 17th, 1977

As the name might suggest, the Fire Dragon embodies all of the Dragon’s qualities most intensely. This person is the most ambitious, the most confident and the most driven amongst all Dragons and can ruffle quite a few feathers as a result. Also, although incredibly helpful people themselves, the Fire Dragon struggles most with accepting help from others. They see their way as the only way and can sometimes fail to appreciate a different point of view.

The Year of the Earth Dragon

February 17th, 1988 - February 5th, 1989

The Earth Dragon is probably most similar to the Wood Dragon in that they are both fairly introverted. They are knowledgeable, driven and have many ideas in the pipeline, but executing these plans can be hindered by their less-than-sociable natures. That said, they fare very well in the workplace as they are viewed as quiet but diligent employees. It won’t take long for an Earth Dragon to climb the ranks though and exert his calm and collected authority in a leadership role. 

The Year of the Metal Dragon

February 5th, 2000 - January 23rd, 2001

Metal Dragons are fantastic with people. They are charismatic and optimistic, meaning others are drawn to them and respect what they have to say. Metal Dragons have no problem commanding a room or being the center of attention, yet still remain humble in the way they carry themselves. As highly moralistic and humanitarian by nature, Metal Dragons are on a constant quest to solve people’s problems and make life better for all.

The Year of the Water Dragon

January 23rd, 2012 - February 9th, 2013

Water Dragons are fun, friendly and calm. Unlike most other Dragons, Water Dragons have a better appreciation for the emotions of others; they can read people incredibly well and empathize with whatever may be ailing them. Cooperation also comes naturally with Water. Full of bright ideas and a cheeky attitude, Dragons make a brilliant addition to a team rather than taking the stand as a leader. 

By now you will know that people born under the different Chinese zodiac signs have certain personality traits corresponding to that animal. Some of the zodiac signs are very compatible but others do not fare as well. If you are curious about whether you are compatible with your partner, friends, family and colleagues, make sure to find out within which Chinese zodiac year they were born!

Do you still want to know more about the Year of the Dragon in Chinese astrology? There are many resources at Mysticsense that can guide you with your learning and provide insight for any other questions you may have. Get started learning more about Chinese astrology at Mysticsense today!