This article discusses the 12 animals of the Japanese zodiac and their associated meanings. Each animal has its own unique set of characteristics, such as Rats being intelligent and hardworking with leadership qualities, Oxen being strong and determined but stubborn, Tigers being strong-willed and courageous, Rabbits being gentle and kind-hearted, Dragons representing power and ambition, Snakes representing wisdom and insightfulness. These traits are said to be associated with people born in that particular year.