We know the planets in Western Astrology each rule one of the 12 signs in the zodiac, but which planets rule each sign in the Chinese Zodiac?

　　To find this out, we need to look at the Western counterpart to each Chinese Zodiac sign. The Chinese Zodiac, just like the Western one, is made up of 12 signs. Each one is governed by an element and each one displays unique characteristics. Each one also has a Western Equivalent which shares similarities with it.

　　Check it out: The Chinese Zodiac Signs & Their Western Zodiac Equivalent Signs

　　For example, the Rat is the equivalent to Sagittarius. Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter. The Rat’s ruling element is also Water, which gives us added insight into the make-up of the Rat.

　　So which planet rules your Chinese Zodiac sign? Knowing this information can help you understand more about yourself, especially when you take a look at your natal chart and spot where your planets are!

　　

Chinese Zodiac Signs & Their Ruling Planets:

If you’re not sure what your Chinese Zodiac sign is, click to use our calculator right here.

　　

Rat: Jupiter

The Rat is ruled by Jupiter, a planet of expansion and benevolence.

　　Jupiter is often looked on as a favorable planet and so is the Rat in Chinese Astrology, which is viewed as a fortunate sign, one of luck and money. Jupiter is all about abundance and opportunity and Rats are the same. They are the ones to seize the day and go forward with optimism and faith in their hearts.

　　

Ox: Saturn

The Ox is ruled by Saturn, the planet of tough life lessons and discipline.

　　Remember that teacher at school that you really didn’t like because they were hard on you, but years later you thanked the universe for them because if they hadn’t taught you those vital lessons you wouldn’t be where you are today? That’s Saturn and that’s the Ox as well. A character of strong discipline, focus, and commitment, Ox people embody the spirit of Saturn. They are people who are not afraid of hard work or challenges in order to get things accomplished.

　　

Tiger: Uranus

The Tiger is ruled by Uranus, the planet of individuality and freedom.

　　As the ultimate rebel of the Chinese Zodiac, the Tiger defines the qualities of Uranus in abundance. Uranus is all about questioning authority and working towards change. This is why Tigers are the humanitarians of the zodiac. They march to the beat of their own drum and are especially known for their courage – and they need plenty of it if they wish to be the change they wish to see in the world!

　　

Rabbit: Neptune

The Rabbit is ruled by Neptune, the planet of healing and intuition.

　　The Rabbit is a peacemaker, someone who dislikes conflict. Rabbits are also incredible healers and nurturers, often putting the needs of others before their own. Their gentle characters embody the spirit of Neptune, whose role is to help transcend the physical into the spiritual. Rabbits are famous for their humility and grace.

　　

Dragon: Mars

The Dragon is ruled by Mars, the planet of passion and strength.

　　This is no surprise, for the mighty Dragon is revered and respected in Chinese Astrology for their courage and determination. Mars is the ultimate planet of self-empowerment and Dragons are all about coming into their own power and unleashing it onto the world. There is a great strength to someone with this sign.

　　

Snake: Venus

The Snake is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty and love.

　　The Snake is traditionally viewed as the most physically beautiful of the Chinese Zodiac and they also have a love of aesthetics. Like Venus, Snakes appreciate the finer things in life. Venus is about giving and receiving love and Snake people have a charming and delightful air about them which makes others feel it is a pleasure to be in their company.

　　

Horse: Mercury

The Horse is ruled by Mercury, the planet of intelligence and information.

　　It is no surprise that the quick-thinking Horse has this planet as its ruler. Mercury gives them the ability to think on their feet and communicate effectively. A Horse person will often be charming in their communication and they will often be gifted writers and artists.

　　

Goat: Moon

　　The Goat is ruled by the Moon, the planet of feelings and nurture.

　　The Goat is the most creative sign of the Chinese Zodiac and the Moon bestows them with the ability to access their subconscious, where their creativity streams from. The Moon also provides the Goat with powerful intuition. As the Moon is the planet of emotions, the Goat is a highly emotional individual with a heart of gold.

　　

Monkey: Sun

The Monkey is ruled by the Sun, the planet of self-identity and ego.

　　Monkeys often appear to be brimming with confidence and as members of the First Trine, they have the ability to shine in the spotlight. This is the power of the Sun, which is the basis of our ego and who we are. Monkeys are passionate and confident people; they are there to be seen and heard!

　　

Rooster: Mercury

The Rooster is ruled by Mercury, just like the Horse. It is the planet of information and intelligence.

　　Roosters are also highly-communicative individuals and they are more expressive in the way they do it. You will always know when a Rooster is around – there presence is hard to miss! They like to talk and are often very engaging and dynamic.

　　

Dog: Venus

The Dog is ruled by Venus, just like the Snake.

　　However, the Dog is motivated more by Venusian values, while the Snake is influenced more by the Venus love of beauty and pleasure. The Dog is a person with strong morals. They desire the world to be a better place, a beautiful place. Venus gives them the ability to see the world in a beautiful light but to recognize where it needs improvement. This is why Dogs are driven by justice and balance.

　　

Pig: Pluto

　　The Pig is ruled by Pluto, the planet of transformation.

　　While Pigs may seem like simple and cheerful individuals on the outside, there is a great depth to their character. Pluto reminds us that life is short, so the Pig is someone who relishes in the pleasures of life. At the same time, Pluto reminds the Pig that because life is short, it is important to do something memorable while on earth. Therefore, the Pig’s desire for transformation on all levels is an innate one.

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