The Tiger (虎, Hǔ) is the third animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle. Revered as a symbol of strength, courage, and passion, the Tiger is seen as a fearless leader and natural-born adventurer.

People born in the Year of the Tiger are known for their confidence, bold spirit, and rebellious energy—they charge forward in life with enthusiasm and charisma.

Tiger Zodiac Years

If you were born in one of the following years, you may be a Tiger:

Tiger Years: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034...

Note: Chinese zodiac years follow the lunar calendar. If your birthday falls in January or early February, double-check the lunar new year start date.

Personality Traits of the Tiger

Strengths Challenges
Brave and charismatic Impulsive and restless
Ambitious and driven Rebellious and headstrong
Independent and confident May dislike authority
Protective and generous Easily bored or distracted

Tigers are admired for their magnetism and ambition, often inspiring those around them. They have strong ideals, and once they believe in a cause, they pursue it fiercely—sometimes to the point of recklessness.

Tiger Compatibility

Most Compatible Least Compatible
Horse, Dog, Pig Monkey, Snake
  • Best Match: Horse – Energetic and spontaneous like the Tiger
  • Great Ally: Dog – Loyal and dependable, balances the Tiger’s wild side
  • Clashing Pair: Monkey – Too competitive and unpredictable

Lucky Signs for Tigers

Element Lucky Numbers Lucky Colors Lucky Flowers
Wood (frequent) 1, 3, 4 Blue, orange, grey Cineraria, plum blossom

Lucky Directions: East, North, South

Each Tiger year also pairs with one of the Five Elements, influencing personality: Wood Tigers are kind; Fire Tigers are passionate; Metal Tigers are ambitious, etc.

Tigers in Chinese Culture

  • In Chinese folklore, the Tiger is the King of All Beasts (百兽之王), second only to the Dragon in power.
  • Often seen as a protector against evil, Tigers are printed on talismans and children's hats to ward off bad luck.
  • The Tiger is also a symbol of military strength, featured on battle flags, weapons, and uniforms throughout Chinese history.

In the Zodiac Race Legend, the Tiger crossed the river with determination, coming in third place after the Rat and Ox—showing strength and perseverance.

Career & Life Path

Tigers do well in careers that allow independence, leadership, and action, such as:

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Politics & activism
  • Law enforcement or military
  • Sports and performance arts
  • Emergency response or high-stakes roles

Tigers thrive when they feel challenged and respected.

If you’re a Tiger, you’re born to lead, protect, and explore. While your energy may sometimes feel intense to others, your courage, loyalty, and charisma make you unforgettable. As long as you channel your passion with wisdom, there’s little that can stand in your way.