ABOUT
Heavenly Stem: Bing 丙
Earthly Branch: Wǔ 午
Energy: Yang
In Chinese culture, the Horse stands for energy, strength, and speed. People admire the Horse for being strong and determined. Because of these good qualities, the Horse also stands for success and good luck. There’s a saying that compares quick success to a winning horse on the battlefield. That’s why some people use horse pictures or decorations in their homes or clothes to bring good luck and positive energy.
In Chinese astrology, people born in the Year of the Horse are believed to be like the Horse. They are confident, friendly, and responsible. They like both physical and mental challenges. However, they don’t like being told what to do and may sometimes be impatient or easily influenced. Still, they are known for being smart, active, and hardworking.
In the past, horses were very important in China. They were the main way people traveled and were one of the six most valued animals. Horses were seen as strong, beautiful, and heroic. People born in the Year of the Horse are thought to be brave, talented, and independent. Their element is Fire, which means they are full of energy and passion.
Why is Horse the seventh zodiac sign?
There’s an interesting legend about how the Horse became one of the twelve Chinese zodiac animals.
A long time ago, the Horse had wings and could run, swim, and fly. It was called the "heavenly horse" and was the favorite of the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven. But because it was treated so well, the Horse became proud and reckless. One day, it escaped from the Heavenly Palace and tried to enter the Dragon Palace in the East Sea. The guards, including a tortoise, tried to stop it. Angry, the Horse kicked the tortoise to death. When the Jade Emperor heard about it, he was furious. As punishment, he removed the Horse’s wings and locked it under the Kunlun Mountains for 300 years.
After over 200 years, the first human ancestor passed by and heard the Horse crying for help. The Horse said, “Kind human, please free me. I will serve you forever.” Touched by this, the human ancestor rescued the Horse. To thank him, the Horse followed him into the human world. It worked hard—plowing fields, pulling carts, and carrying heavy loads. In war, it bravely fought beside its master. From then on, the Horse became one of humanity’s closest friends.
Later, when the Jade Emperor was choosing the twelve zodiac animals, people highly recommended the Horse for all its good deeds. The Jade Emperor agreed, and the Horse became one of the zodiac signs.
The Horse is number seven in the zodiac. One reason is based on the ancient Chinese way of telling time. The day was divided into 12 time periods, and the seventh one, called “Wu,” is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.—when the sun is strongest. The Horse, with its fiery spirit and strength, matches this time of day, like a red-maned horse full of energy. So, the Horse was linked to this time and placed seventh.
Another story tells that the zodiac order came from a race set up by the Jade Emperor. He said the first 12 animals to cross a river would become the zodiac signs. The Horse was a favorite to win, but it spent too much time enjoying the crowd's cheers at the start. It started late but still managed to finish seventh, ahead of the Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
HORSE YEARS
When is the Year of Horse?
The Horse is the 7th animal in the Chinese zodiac, coming after the Snake and before the Goat. If you were born in one of the following years, your Chinese zodiac sign might be the Horse:
1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, or 2026 (which will be the Year of the Fire Horse).
But the Chinese zodiac is based on the Chinese New Year, which usually falls between late January and mid-February. So, if you were born in January or February of one of those years, your zodiac sign could be either the Horse or the Snake.
Also, if you were born in early January or February of the year after (like 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, etc.), you might be a Horse or a Goat, depending on the exact date.
To find out your true Chinese zodiac sign, it’s best to check a Chinese zodiac chart or use an online zodiac calculator with your full birthdate.
PERSONALITY
Understanding the Horse Zodiac Sign
People born in the Year of the Horse are lively, energetic, and full of enthusiasm. They enjoy being around others and love social events like concerts, parties, and sports games. Friendly and talkative, they easily make new friends thanks to their warm and open personalities.
Horses are adventurous and curious. They like trying new things, taking risks, and facing challenges. Their excitement for life often leads them to explore the unknown.
Honesty and loyalty matter deeply to them. They are sincere and straightforward, making them dependable and trustworthy companions.
Horses also have strong leadership qualities. They’re determined and hardworking, always striving to do their best. While this drive is admirable, it can sometimes make them seem stubborn.
As they mature and learn to manage their energy, they become even more capable. Intelligent and quick-witted, Horses understand others well and often focus their efforts on meaningful goals. They stand up for what’s right and aren’t afraid to speak their minds.
Their cheerful, outgoing nature makes them fun to be around. They express themselves confidently and don’t pretend to be modest just to fit in.
Compared to other zodiac signs, Horses are especially bold, enthusiastic, and emotionally open. They don’t hide their feelings, which adds to their charm and draws people in.
Another strong trait is their sharp mind. They think logically, understand situations quickly, and are sensitive to the emotions of others.
Overall, Horses are romantic, optimistic, and socially skilled. They communicate well, work hard, and build strong connections with a wide range of people.
Strengths of the Horses
People born in the Year of the Horse are energetic, honest, and stand up for what’s right. They often help others, especially those in need, and are sometimes seen as heroes for their actions.
They are friendly, outgoing, and courageous. With a strong sense of justice and passion, they’re well-liked and often make good leaders. Their charm and confidence help them succeed in both work and relationships.
Horses are cheerful, smart, creative, and quick learners. These qualities make them admired and popular in their social circles.
Weaknesses of the Horses
Sometimes, people born in the Year of the Horse can be too ambitious, too confident, or try to act too clever.
They often start things with great excitement, but if they lose interest, they may quit halfway—not because they fear failure, but because they get bored easily. This can happen in both work and relationships.
Horses may also care too much about looks and praise. They like being in the spotlight and enjoy attention, which can make them ignore the efforts of others around them. This can lead to hurt feelings and tension in their teams or families, especially with people who are close to them.
Horse Men
Men born in the Year of the Horse are energetic, confident, and charming. They are quick thinkers, decisive, and often seize good opportunities. With a strong sense of justice, they enjoy helping others and standing up for what's right.
Independent and bold, Horse men are natural leaders who enjoy attention and staying fashionable. They are friendly, sociable, and enjoy both physical and intellectual activities. Their cheerfulness and wit make them popular and fun to be around.
In love, they fall quickly but may also lose interest just as fast. They prefer relationships that grow from friendship and are sensitive to emotional changes. Though romantic, they can be unsure and easily affected by feelings.
They handle many tasks well and rely on their instincts, though they may get tired easily. They’re generous, humorous, and welcoming—often the center of attention. Even when hurt, they tend to forgive and try to make others happy.
However, they can be impatient, impulsive, and stubborn. They often ignore advice and may care too much about appearances. Money management is a weakness, as they prefer spending over saving and may form friendships for personal gain.
Horse men mature slowly and may not value family deeply until later in life. Though full of ideas, they sometimes lack follow-through and overestimate themselves. Emotionally sensitive, they can struggle to move on from strong feelings.
Despite their flaws, they are optimistic, communicative, and helpful—bringing warmth and hope even in dull moments.
Horse Women
Women born in the Year of the Horse are stylish, energetic, and confident. They are known for their fashion sense, independence, and active lifestyle. They manage time well, balancing work and family efficiently. Nature and outdoor activities bring them joy.
Horse women are cheerful, optimistic, and stay calm under pressure. They are hardworking, creative, and turn routine tasks into enjoyable ones. At work, they are focused, fast-acting, and dislike distractions.
Honest and straightforward, they clearly express their likes and dislikes. Friends and family trust and rely on them.
In love, Horse women fall easily and take relationships seriously. While breakups can hurt, they recover quickly. They seek love that feels safe and genuine but are encouraged to stay focused on their own goals, as they may give up too soon when things get hard.
They tend to prefer partners who are stable and strong, and they dream of a happy, balanced family life. However, if they feel unloved or ignored, they won’t stay in a relationship just for appearances.
Horse women are attractive, lively, and mentally sharp. They love animals, the outdoors, and find peace in nature. They need freedom and dislike being confined to a narrow life. While they value family, they won’t give up their individuality for it.
Their efficiency and ability to stay organized can sometimes unintentionally pressure those around them.
FIVE ELEMENTS
In Chinese astrology, each zodiac sign is linked to one of five elements: Metal (Gold), Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. For example, a Wood Horse appears once every 60 years.
People believe that a person’s traits come from both their zodiac sign and its element. So, there are five kinds of Horses, each with different personalities:
Metal Horse: Kind, honest, calm, logical, helpful, and well-liked by friends.
Water Horse: Emotional and sometimes moody, reliable, friendly, helpful, and very charming to others.
Wood Horse: Moody and emotional, very imaginative, and good at understanding things deeply.
Fire Horse: Smart, lively, full of energy, and very charming, but also stubborn.
Earth Horse: Optimistic, kind, and fair, but can be short-tempered; responsible and helpful.
CAREER
Horses enjoy jobs where they can interact with others and make their own decisions. They are natural leaders who don’t like being told what to do.
They are outgoing and need to feel appreciated, so they don’t do well in quiet or lonely work. Horses are creative, enthusiastic, and multi-talented, making them well-liked and in demand.
They get bored easily and avoid routine or unappreciated tasks. They thrive in roles where their efforts are noticed, though they may move on once they lose interest.
Money isn’t usually a big concern, but their income can be inconsistent. Boredom, not pressure, is what stresses them most.
Smart and quick-thinking, Horses often find good opportunities, though their impulsiveness can cause setbacks. If they develop more patience and persistence, they can be very successful.
Their lively and independent nature suits jobs that allow creativity and freedom. They do well in adventurous roles or ones where they can express themselves, like being tour guides, artists, writers, or businesspeople.
Ideal careers for Horses
- Architect
- Content Creator
- Entertainer
- Entrepreneur
- Travel vlogger
- Publicist
- Journalist
- Language teacher or translator
- Performer
- Tour operator
- Librarian
- Pilot
- Scientist
- Politician
Less Suitable Careers for Horses
- Investor
- Data analyst
- Executive assistant
- Research scientist
- Government official
These roles may feel too rigid or slow-paced for a Horse’s dynamic personality.
❗Note: These job suggestions are general guidelines. Your best career fit also depends on other factors in your full birth chart.
COMPATIBILITY
Love Compatibility for Horses
Horses are lively, fun, and generous, which makes them appealing to others. In relationships, their strong and sometimes stubborn nature means they’re often attracted to calm and gentle partners.
They like to take charge in love and enjoy the thrill of winning someone over. However, since they value their independence, they may feel uncomfortable if their partner is too dependent or clingy.
❤️ Best Matches for Horses
Horse and Tiger
Horses can be a bit stubborn, but they usually listen to the Tiger’s advice, and together they make a great match. Tigers may show traits that Horses don’t like in themselves—like being moody, quick-tempered, and overly confident. But together, they help each other grow and improve. Both are energetic and fast-paced, so being with someone who can keep up is exciting for the Horse, who might get bored with a calmer partner.
Horse and Dog
The Dog is almost a perfect match for the Horse in love. The energetic and intense Horse has always wanted a calmer partner who can help them relax—and the Dog does just that. In return, the Horse naturally takes the lead in the relationship, giving the steady Dog direction and excitement in life, which is exactly what the Dog needs.
Horse and Goat
No one calms the fiery Horse better than the gentle Goat. A few kind words and a caring touch from the Goat, and the Horse quickly relaxes. Some people think Goats lack ambition, but the Horse knows that’s not true. They see how hardworking and determined the Goat can be when something matters, and they truly admire that. Because Horses are full of energy, they don’t get along well with people who are easily annoyed. That’s why they match well with the calm and patient Goat, creating a peaceful and loving relationship.
💔 Bad Matches for Horses
Horse and Rat
Horse and Rat usually don’t last long as a couple. Even if things start out well, both are too stubborn to compromise. The Horse wants the Rat to meet their needs, but the Rat often responds by pulling away. This causes constant arguments that neither of them wants to fix, making the relationship hard to maintain.
Horse and Ox
Horse and Ox might be drawn to each other at first, but problems soon show up. The Horse values freedom, which makes the Ox feel uneasy. Meanwhile, the Ox’s calm and steady nature feels boring to the Horse. What begins as a strong attraction often ends in a breakup rather than a lasting relationship.
Horse and Rooster
Horse and Rooster often struggle to understand each other because they have very different personalities. The Rooster likes order, routines, and paying attention to details, while the Horse is spontaneous, full of energy, and doesn’t like being restricted. The Rooster may see the Horse as too carefree or messy, while the Horse may feel annoyed by the Rooster’s need for control or constant criticism. For the relationship to work, both need to be patient and willing to compromise.
Summary of Love Compatibility for Horses
💓Best Matches: Tiger, Goat, or Dog
💔Bad Matches: Rat, Ox, or Rooster
Each zodiac sign has its own special traits. In Chinese zodiac love compatibility, the traits of each animal are considered. Only signs that match well can be good partners. Below is how the Dragon matches with other signs.
You can check your compatibility using an online Chinese zodiac calculator.
❗Note: Compatibility isn’t determined solely by your zodiac sign—it also depends on the effort you put into the relationship.
How to Get Along with Horse People
Horses don’t like boring lives—they are full of energy and excitement. They are attracted to creative and interesting people. When spending time with a Horse, it’s important to create romantic moments and say sweet things to keep the relationship strong. But one thing Horses can’t stand is lying, even small white lies. Being honest is very important to them.
Horses work very hard every day to support their families. Because of this, their marriage can sometimes face problems. It’s important for their partner to take care of the relationship and watch out for the Horse’s health as well.
HEALTH
Horses are usually healthy because they have a positive outlook on life. They're full of energy, especially when young, and often seem strong and unstoppable. However, too much work, stress, or a busy social life can wear them down over time.
They tend to push themselves too hard, which can lead to both physical and mental strain. Their digestive, heart, and breathing systems are especially sensitive, so it's important they take care of themselves.
Horses should:
- Avoid working late too often
- Say no to some late-night parties
- Stick to regular meals and avoid skipping or eating at odd hours
- Get enough sleep and rest
- Make time to relax and exercise regularly
Young Horses should build healthy habits early, like eating well and getting enough sleep.
Middle-aged Horses need to find a better balance between work and rest to avoid burnout.
Even though Horses are energetic and lively, they need to slow down sometimes and take care of their health to stay strong in the long run.
FAMOUS PEOPLE
Horse Year People
Horses are very passionate and charming, making them natural leaders, performers, and activists.
Here’s a list of famous Horses:
Metal Horse
- Frederic Chopin: Mar 1, 1810 (Composer)
- Pope Leo XIII: Mar 2, 1810
- PT Barnum: Jul 5, 1810 (Entrepreneur)
- Vladimir Lenin: Apr 22, 1870 (Former Premier of Soviet Union)
- Maria Montessori: Aug 31, 1870 (Teacher)
- Mbah Gotho: Dec 31, 1870 (Supercentenarian)
- Grandma Droniak: Mar 18, 1930 (YouTube Star)
- Clint Eastwood: May 31, 1930 (Actor)
- Neil Armstrong: Aug 5, 1930 (Astronaut)
- Princess Margaret: Aug 21, 1930
- Sean Connery: Aug 25, 1930 (Actor)
- Ray Charles: Sep 23, 1930 (Singer)
- Jacksepticeye: Feb 7, 1990 (YouTube Star)
- The Weeknd: Feb 27, 1990 (Singer)
- Alex Wassabi: Mar 28, 1990 (YouTube Star)
- Kristen Stewart: Apr 9, 1990 (Actress)
- Emma Watson: Apr 15, 1990 (Actress)
Water Horse
- Ulysses S. Grant: Apr 27, 1822 (18th US President)
- Rutherford B. Hayes: Oct 4, 1822 (19th US President)
- Emmy Noether: Mar 23, 1882 (Mathematician)
- Getúlio Vargas: Apr 19, 1882 (Former President of Brazil)
- Umberto Boccioni: Oct 19, 1882 (Painter)
- Christian Mortensen: Aug 16, 1882 (Supercentenarian)
- Louis Pasteur: Dec 27, 1822 (Virologist)
- Paul McCartney: June 18, 1942 (Musician)
- Bob Ross: Oct 29, 1942 (Painter)
- Calvin Klein: Nov 19, 1942 (Fashion Designer)
- Joe Biden: Nov 20, 1942 (46th US President)
- Jimi Hendrix: Nov 27, 1942 (Musician)
- HamzahTheFantastic: Mar 5, 2002 (TikTok Star)
- Chase Hudson; May 15, 2002 (TikTok Star)
- Caleb Logan LeBlanc: Jul 13, 2002 (YouTube Star)
- xDemon: Jul 25, 2002 (YouTube Star)
- Tyler Vitelli: Dec 11, 2002 (TikTok Star)
- Greta Thunberg: Jan 3, 2003 (Activist)
Wood Horse
- Gottlieb Daimler: Mar 17, 1934 (Entrepreneur)
- William Morris: Mar 24, 1934 (Novelist)
- Frederic Auguste Bartholdi: Aug 2, 1834 (Sculptor)
- Abigail Scott Duniway: Oct 22, 1834 (Activist)
- Hetty Green: Nov 21, 1834 (Entrepreneur)
- Edward VIII: June 23, 1894 (Former King of England)
- Nikita Khrushchev: Apr 17, 1894 (Former Soviet Premier)
- Bessie Smith: Apr 15, 1894 (Singer)
- John Travolta: Feb 18, 1954 (Actor)
- Recep Tayyip Erdogan: Feb 26, 1954 (12th President of Turkey)
- Jackie Chan: April 7, 1954 (Actor)
- Dennis Quaid: Apr 9, 1954 (Actor)
- Ruby Bridges: Sep 8, 1954 (Civil Rights Leader)
- Angela Merkel: Jul 17, 1954 (Chancellor of Germany)
- Tony Todd: Dec 4, 1954 (Actor)
- Annie Lennox: Dec 25, 1954 (Singer)
- Denzel Washington: Dec 28, 1954 (Actor)
Fire Horse
- Wilhelm Grimm: Feb 24, 1786 (Novelist)
- John Franklin: Apr 16, 1786 (Explorer)
- Carl Maria von Weber: Nov 18, 1786 (Composer)
- Alexandre de Serpa Pinto: Apr 20, 1846 (Explorer)
- Lars Magnus Ericsson: May 5, 1846 (Entrepreneur)
- Naim Frasheri: May 25, 1846 (Poet)
- Peter Carl Faberge: May 30, 1846 (Entrepreneur)
- George Westinghouse: Oct 6, 1846 (Engineer)
- Clyde Tombaugh: Feb 4, 1906 (Astronomer)
- Puyi: Feb 7, 1906 (The Last Emperor of China)
- Lou Costello: Mar 6, 1906 (Actor)
- Josephine Baker: June 3, 1906 (Dancer)
- Satchel Paige: Jul 7, 1906 (Baseball Player)
- Soichiro Honda: Nov 17, 1906 (Entrepreneur)
- Grace Hopper: Dec 9, 1906 (Computer Scientist)
- Cindy Crawford: Feb 20, 1966 (Model)
- Janet Jackson: May 16, 1966 (Singer)
- Mike Tyson: June 30, 1966 (Boxer)
- Jordan Matter: Oct 6, 1966 (YouTube Star)
- Gordon Ramsay: Nov 8, 1966 (Chef)
Earth Horse
- Charles Wilkes: Apr 3, 1798 (Explorer)
- Eugene Delacroix: Apr 26, 1798 (Painter)
- Thomas Hodgkin: Aug 17, 1798 (Doctor)
- George Fletcher Moore: Dec 10, 1798 (Explorer)
- Rudolf Diesel: Mar 18, 1858 (Entrepreneur)
- Max Planck: Apr 23, 1858 (Physicist)
- Franz Boas: Jul 9, 1858 (Anthropologist)
- Theodore Roosevelt: Oct 27, 1858 (26th US President)
- Robert Wadlow: Feb 22, 1918 (Known as the Giant of Illinois)
- Sam Walton: Mar 29, 1918 (Entrepreneur)
- Nelson Mandela: Jul 8, 1918 (Former President of South Africa)
- Katherine Johnson: Aug 26, 1918 (Mathematician)
- Riley Smith: Apr 12, 1978 (Actor)
- Jillzfoodz: May 25, 1978 (YouTube Star)
- Evan Britton: May 26, 1978 (Entrepreneur)
- Link Neal: June 1, 1978 (YouTube Star)
- Scott Cawthon: June 4, 1978 (Game Designer)
- James Corden: Aug 22, 1978 (Comedian)
- Kobe Bryant: Aug 23, 1978 (Basketball player)
- Usher: Oct 14, 1978 (Singer)
- Diplo: Nov 10, 1978 (DJ)
- John Legend: Dec 28, 1978 (Singer)
