Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Origins & Character Traits

When it comes to Eastern astrology, most people in the West are familiar with the Chinese zodiac. However, Vietnam has its own unique take on the 12-year cycle, rich with cultural symbolism, mythological roots, and fascinating character interpretations. The Vietnamese zodiac signs mirror many of those in the Chinese system, but with key differences that reflect Vietnam’s history, values, and folklore. In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of the Vietnamese zodiac, and what personality traits are associated with each of the 12 Vietnamese zodiac animals. For travelers joining True Indochina Tours across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, understanding these zodiac symbols adds rich cultural context and deeper connection to the local way of life.

Vietnamese Zodiac Origins

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Rat Zodiac Animal

The Rat, smallest of all creatures, was clever beyond measure. Knowing it couldn’t outrun or outswim the others, it quietly climbed onto the Water Buffalo’s back without his knowing. As they neared the finish line, the Rat sprang forward and claimed first place. Thus, the calendar begins with the one no one expected.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Buffalo Zodiac Animal

The Buffalo, symbol of Vietnam’s agrarian spirit, was steady and hardworking. He crossed the river diligently and should have finished first. But his good nature was taken advantage of—he carried the Rat unknowingly, only to watch it leap to the finish line. The Buffalo accepted second place with silent grace.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Tiger Zodiac Animal

The Tiger, strong and bold, fought hard against the river’s wild currents. Though known for his might, he found swimming far more challenging than expected. Huffing and puffing, he crossed the finish line third – proving that strength alone does not always win the race.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Cat Zodiac Animal

In the Vietnamese zodiac, the Cat replaces the Rabbit from Chinese tradition. Once a friend of the Rat, the Cat trusted it to wake him up for the race. But the Rat “forgot,” and the Cat woke up late. Racing furiously, the Cat still made it to fourth place – just behind the traitor. Since that day, the Cat and Rat have been bitter enemies.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Dragon Zodiac Animal

The Dragon, majestic and powerful, could have easily claimed the first place—it could fly, after all. But as the story goes, the Dragon paused mid-race to summon rain for a village gripped by drought. Only after bringing life to the land below did it soar to the finish line, arriving fifth. It’s not that the Dragon couldn’t be first—it simply had greater duties to fulfill.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Snake Zodiac Animal

In the shadows of the race slithered the Snake – quiet, patient, and calculating. Knowing its slim frame couldn’t battle the river alone, it found refuge in the Horse’s hoof. As they neared the finish line, the Snake sprang forth from its hiding spot, startling the Horse and slipping across the line just before him. Sixth place wasn’t won with muscle – but with guile.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Horse Zodiac Animal

The Horse, wild and free, galloped bravely through the river. Nearing the end, it was just about to sprint forward – until it got the scare of its life. A Snake shot out from under its own hoof! Startled, the Horse stumbled, falling back to seventh.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Goat Zodiac Animal

The Goat wasn’t the fastest, nor the strongest – but it had friends. Along with the Monkey and Rooster, it spotted a raft tangled in marsh grass. Using its sharp teeth, the Goat helped clear the path, and the trio crossed the river together. Out of humility, the Goat let the others choose their rankings. It came in eighth.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Monkey Zodiac Animal

The Monkey, smart and playful, formed a team with the Goat and Rooster. Together, they maneuvered the raft to the finish line. With a smile and a handshake, they let fate decide the rest. The Monkey landed ninth.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Rooster Zodiac Animal

It was the Rooster who first spotted the raft. Instead of flying or swimming solo, it called out to the Goat and Monkey and worked with them to make it across. The teamwork paid off. The Rooster, polite and calm, took tenth place—proving kindness doesn’t come last.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Dog Zodiac Animal

The Dog was a great swimmer and should have finished earlier. But it was too easily distracted. Along the way, it played in the water, enjoyed the view, and forgot all about the race. By the time it remembered, it had to rush – earning eleventh place, but with a happy heart.

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs – Pig Zodiac Animal

Last came the Pig. Sweet and simple, it stopped midway to eat and nap. Only when it woke up did it remember the race, rushing to the finish line in a flurry. Still, it crossed, smiling and content. The twelfth and final zodiac sign went to the most carefree of all.

Vietnamese Zodiac Character Traits

Vietnamese zodiac signs are not only symbolic but also represent a detailed portrait of personality types. Each animal is associated with both strengths and weaknesses and can vary in interpretation between men and women.

Rat Zodiac Sign – The Smart One

Buffalo Zodiac Sign – The Reliable One

Tiger Zodiac Sign – The Brave One

Cat Zodiac Sign – The Graceful One

Dragon Zodiac Sign – The Powerful One

Snake Zodiac Sign – The Mysterious One

Horse Zodiac Sign – The Free Spirit

Goat Zodiac Sign – The Gentle Soul

Monkey Zodiac Sign – The Playful Genius

Rooster Zodiac Sign – The Perfectionist

Dog Zodiac Sign – The Loyal Guardian

Pig Zodiac Sign – The Warm-Hearted One

Vietnamese Zodiac Signs by Birth Year