1988 Chinese Zodiac: Earth Dragon
People born in 1988 are Yang Earth Dragons, with one important exception: the first weeks of the year.
Quick answer
The 1988 zodiac year ran from February 17, 1988 to February 5, 1989. If you were born on or after February 17, 1988, your sign is the Earth Dragon. If you were born earlier in 1988, you belong to the Fire Rabbit of 1987.
Earth Dragon personality
Ambitious, charismatic and larger than life.
The Dragon is the fifth animal and the only mythical creature in the zodiac. It is the most prestigious sign in Chinese culture, associated with power, good fortune and ambition.
Earth years add stability, practicality and loyalty. Earth people tend to be dependable, patient and grounded.
Strengths: Confident and charismatic, Ambitious and energetic, Generous, Natural leader, Optimistic. Watch for: Domineering, Impatient, Perfectionist, Proud, Short-tempered.
Read the full Dragon guide for love, career and compatibility.
Born early in 1988?
The Chinese zodiac follows the lunisolar calendar, so a January or February birth often belongs to the previous animal. In 1988, Chinese New Year fell on February 17, 1988. Anyone born before that date is a Fire Rabbit instead. See the Rabbit guide.
1988 zodiac year facts
- Chinese New Year 1988 fell on a Wednesday, February 17, 1988.
- The Dragon year lasted 355 days, slightly shorter than a calendar year.
- Anyone born in the first 47 days of 1988 (January 1 to February 17, 1988) belongs to the previous sign.
- People born in 1988 turn 38 or 37 during 2026, depending on their birthday.
Other Dragon years: 1964, 1976, 2000, 2012. Each has a different element, which colors the animal's traits.
Dragon compatibility
The Dragon is traditionally most harmonious with Rat and Monkey, and tends to clash with the Dog.
Near 1988, the Dragon's harmonious partners were born in: Rat: 1984; Monkey: 1992.
The Chinese zodiac is a cultural tradition offered for reflection and entertainment.