More tourist attractions in Shanghai are offering zodiac-themed discounts during the spring season to mark the Year of the Horse.

The Chinese Zodiac, also known as shengxiao, has shaped traditions and beliefs for millennia. It includes 12 animal signs – Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig – that reflect Chinese values, philosophy and imagination.

The origin of the Chinese Zodiac is steeped in myth and legend. One of the most beloved tales dates back to the reign of the Jade Emperor(one of the representations of the primordial god), who organized a race to determine the order of the zodiac animals. The rules were simple: the first 12 animals to cross a river would claim their places in the cycle.

Clever Rat rode on Ox's back and swiftly advanced to secure the top spot, with diligent Ox trailing closely behind.

The legend explains the sequence of the zodiac and embodies virtues like wit, diligence, kindness, and humility that the Chinese have cherished for generations.

Each zodiac animal carries symbolic meanings, influencing how people perceive personality traits.

Beyond personal symbolism, the Chinese Zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle, with each year named after one of the animals. This cycle is deeply integrated with the Chinese lunar calendar, marking important festivals, harvests, and life events.

The Year of the Horse represents speed, courage, and new beginnings. People often describe those born in the Year of the Horse as confident, independent, and full of vitality.

Every year, tourist spots host Chinese Zodiac-related activities and offer exclusive discounts to people born in the year of the zodiac.

Those born in 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, 1930 fall under the Year of the Horse.

Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park

Those born in the Year of the Horse can have a ball in the ocean world for 99 yuan. For others, the price is 339 yuan per adult.

Domestic travelers need an ID card, and foreigners can use a passport for the discount.

Date: Through March 1

Address: 166 Yinfei Rd, Pudong New Area

浦东新区银飞路166号

Tel: 5060-6666

Shanghai Happy Valley

The Year of the Horse special ticket costs 130 yuan – 260 yuan for others. Tickets will be available from February 1 to March 7 (buy at least one day in advance) and are valid from February 16 to March 8.

Date: February 16 - March 8

Address: 888 Linhu Rd, Sheshan, Songjiang District

松江区佘山林湖路888号

Tel: 400-668-8022

Shanghai Film Park

There are special treats for people born in the Year of the Horse, with tickets priced at 50 yuan – 80 yuan for others.

Date: Through February 14

Address: 211 Cheting Highway, Chedun Town, Songjiang District

松江区车墩镇车亭公路211号

Tel: 5760-0061