年 of the Snake

Almost everyone knows that there are twelve zodiac signs in the Chinese astrology, namely rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, 羊 (ram または goat), monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. However, the history of the Chinese zodiac signs, i.e. how they came into existence, is still unknown to the majority. Actually, there is an interesting legend that explains the full story behind the history and origin of the Chinese Zodiac.

The most 人気 legend surrounding the origin of Chinese zodiac goes that Jade Emperor decided to hold a swimming race in order to select the 動物 that were to be...