Discover the Japanese zodiac signs through Takeuchi Seihō’s exquisite paintings. Learn about each zodiac sign and download free printable artwork.
The Japanese Zodiac Signs
The Japanese zodiac signs, or Jūnishi, have been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, deeply tied to astrology, folklore, and art. Similar to the Chinese zodiac, the Japanese zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, with each Year assigned to a specific animal: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar.
Each sign is believed to shape the personality and destiny of those born in its Year, offering a unique glimpse into one’s character and future.
One artist who masterfully captured the essence of these signs is Takeuchi Seihō. Known for his remarkable skill in Nihonga (traditional Japanese painting), Seihō’s Seihō Album of the Twelve Signs of the Zodiac (Seihō jūnishi jō) is a stunning collection of paintings that bring the Japanese zodiac signs to life. His brushwork combines traditional Japanese techniques with a touch of realism, making each animal feel vibrant and full of personality.
What Are the Japanese Zodiac Signs?
The Japanese zodiac system follows a 12-year cycle, each Year linked to one of the 12 animals. Unlike Western astrology, which is based on the months of the Year, the Japanese zodiac assigns an animal to an entire calendar year. Each animal is associated with specific traits, influencing the personalities of people born in that Year.
The Japanese zodiac is not just about personality traits—it also plays a role in cultural traditions, fortune-telling, and even celebrations like New Year’s. Each Year, the featured zodiac animal is prominently displayed in decorations, greeting cards, and even local festivals.
| Zodiac Sign | Japanese Name | Recent Years |
|---|
| Rat | Nezumi | 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032 |
| Ox | Ushi | 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033 |
| Tiger | Tora | 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034 |
| Rabbit | Usagi | 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035 |
| Dragon | Ryū | 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, 2036 |
| Snake | Hebi | 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037 |
| Horse | Uma | 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026, 2038 |
| Goat | Hitsuji | 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027, 2039 |
| Monkey | Saru | 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028, 2040 |
| Rooster | Tori | 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029, 2041 |
| Dog | Inu | 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042 |
| Boar | Inoshishi | 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031, 2043 |
The 12 Japanese Zodiac Animals
Here’s a closer look at the 12 Japanese zodiac signs and what they represent, illustrated by Takeuchi Seihō’s incredible paintings. To download the painting you want, click on the title above it. A higher-resolution print will open in a new tab. You can then print and save that image.
Print 1. The Rat (Nezumi)
The Rat is the first sign in the Japanese zodiac. Known for being intelligent, resourceful, and quick-thinking, people born in the Year of the Rat are natural problem solvers and great at adapting to new situations. Seihō’s painting of the Rat highlights its alertness and sharp mind.
Print 2. The Ox (Ushi)
Dependable and hardworking, the Ox symbolizes strength, perseverance, and resilience. People born under this sign are calm, steady, and reliable, often admired for their ability to stay grounded.
Print 3. The Tiger (Tora)
Tigers are courageous, confident, and passionate. This sign is often associated with leadership and a strong sense of justice. Those born in the Year of the Tiger tend to be bold and dynamic. Seihō’s art reveals the Tiger’s fierce hunting instincts with the caught bird in its mouth.
On Pictureboxblue, there are many more fantastic tiger illustrations
4. The Rabbit (Usagi)
The Rabbit, a symbol of grace and creativity, embodies a gentle and kind nature. Those born under this sign are often empathetic, artistic, and skilled at fostering harmony in their relationships.
In Seihō’s painting, intriguingly, a tortoise appears in the corner. Could this be a subtle nod to the timeless parable of the hare and the tortoise, highlighting the interplay of speed and perseverance? This thoughtful detail adds an extra layer of depth to the artwork, inviting viewers to reflect on the symbolism behind the Rabbit.
The site has a fabulous collection of rabbit and bunny pictures to explore.
Print 5. The Dragon (Ryū)
As a mythical creature, the Dragon is one of the most powerful signs in the Japanese zodiac. It represents ambition, charisma, and vitality. Those born in the Year of the Dragon are often seen as visionaries. Seihō’s dynamic depiction of the Dragon captures its strength and mythical aura.
Check out this collection of Asian and European dragon drawings.
Print 6. The Snake (Hebi)
Snakes are intuitive, wise, and mysterious. They are known for their charm, deep thinking, and problem-solving skills. People born under this sign are often seen as insightful and refined. Seihō’s elegant portrayal reflects the Snake’s enigmatic nature.
Print 7. The Horse (Uma)
The Horse represents freedom, energy, and determination. People born in the Year of the Horse are spirited, sociable, and ambitious, often enthusiastically pursuing their goals. Seihō’s lively painting highlights the Horse’s strength and vitality.
Print 8. The Goat (Hitsuji)
Goats are creative, gentle, and compassionate. They value peace and harmony and are often drawn to artistic pursuits. People born under this sign are nurturing and thoughtful. Seihō’s painting is of a herd of Goats and a farmer.
Print 9. The Monkey (Saru)
Clever, curious, and playful, Monkeys are known for their adaptability and ingenuity. They thrive on challenges and love entertaining others. Seihō’s depiction captures the Monkey’s mischievous energy and lively personality.
Print 10. The Rooster (Tori)
Hardworking and meticulous, the Rooster symbolizes confidence and precision. People born under this sign are ambitious and detail-oriented, often perfectionists. Seihō’s proud portrayal of the Rooster reflects its confident and determined nature.
Print 11. The Dog (Inu)
Loyal, honest, and protective, the Dog is a sign of integrity and trustworthiness. People born in the Year of the Dog value strong relationships and are dependable friends. Seihō’s painting captures the Dog’s playful spirit.
Print 12. The Boar (Inoshishi)
Courageous and determined, the Boar symbolizes enthusiasm and straightforwardness. Those born under this sign are known for their strong will and dedication.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Japanese Zodiac Signs and More
Takeuchi Seihō’s Seihō Album of the Twelve Signs of the Zodiac is a breathtaking tribute to the Japanese zodiac signs, blending artistry with cultural symbolism. Whether you’re drawn to these paintings for their beauty or the fascinating traits of each sign, they offer a unique way to explore Japanese culture.
If you enjoyed this post, check out other Japanese-themed content on Pictureboxblue, like the stunning Japanese Art Patterns or the detailed Japanese Flower & Bird Prints. There’s so much more to explore and download for free!
At Picture Box Blue, we offer a rich collection of zodiac and constellation-themed posts that beautifully blend art and astronomy. Explore our DIY Zodiac Christmas Ornaments, where vintage zodiac illustrations are transformed into festive decorations, adding a personalized touch to your holiday decor.
Delve into the Antique Zodiac Star Charts of John Bevis, showcasing meticulously crafted celestial maps from the 18th century. Our Zodiac Prints by Sydney Hall offer a glimpse into 19th-century astronomical art, perfect for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Additionally, the Free Old Printable Constellation Map Posters provide high-quality images of historical star maps, ideal for educational purposes or as unique decorative pieces. These curated posts invite you to journey through the stars, exploring the intersection of history, art, and the cosmos.
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