Chinese Astrology is based on the 12 animals that were said to have obeyed The Buddha’s call.  They are given in the order to which they came to Him. 
The Astrology also makes use of the concepts of Yin and Yang, the 2 polarities +/- of Nature and the 5 elements with which Nature is formed water, wood, earth, fire and metal.  Altogether the Astrology goes in a 60 year cycle.  Each animal has it’s year of Yin or Yang and one of the 5 elements, so over 60 years each animal appears 5 times, each time with a different polarity and element.

You need your month, day and hour of birth which are also given one of these animals, polarities and elements, so these form the 4 Pillars of the Astrology Charts. China has various calendars of various weeks and year divisions. China also nowadays uses the Western Calendar.  Hence there is a lot of confusion when considering Chinese Astrology.  There are divisions called ‘stems’ and ‘branches’.

The birth chart describes you as a person and the likely destiny.  This was much valued when picking a bride or having a specific event.  The compatibility of those involved was essential.  The Feng Shui of the place of the event as well as the Chart of the date/time of the event had to be compatible with those taking part.
The Chinese Chart is designed as a paddy (rice) field divided into 12 sections.  Each section tells you about a different area of your life and what can be expected.  Advice can be suggested to maximise your potential.

CHINESE ASTROLOGY CYCLE X 2
Years start between January 20th & February 20th