As I explore the alleys of Yuyuan Garden I am constantly reminded that it is the Lunar New Year and that we have entered the year of the Pig! Chinese New Year 2019 started on Tuesday, February 5th and ends on January 24th, 2020.
You probably know there are 12 Chinese zodiac animals used to represent years, 2019 is the year of the Pig. Zodiac signs play an integral part in Chinese culture, and can be used to determine your fortune for the year, marriage compatibility, career fit, best times to have a baby, and so much more. Many large corporations in China still reference it before making important decisions!
But did you know that the zodiacs originally had something to do with the worship of animals?
One legend says that the Jade Emperor needed to choose 12 animals as palace guards. The Cat asked his neighbour Rat to help him sign up. Rat forgot, which is why they became mortal enemies.
At the palace, Ox was first in line, but Rat secretly climbed onto Ox’s back and jumped in front of him. Tiger and Dragon thought it was unfair, but they could only settle behind Ox. Rabbit found it unfair too. He wanted to race with Dragon and succeeded.
This angered Dog, who bit Rabbit in a fit and was sent to the back as punishment. Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey and Rooster fought amongst themselves as well. Pig was late because he overslept.
Of course, this is only a story and there are quite a few different versions.
According to the Chinese astrology, 2019 is a great year to make money, and a good year to invest! 2019 is going to be full of joy, a year of friendship and love for all the zodiac signs; an auspicious year because the Pig attracts success in all the spheres of life.
But if you were born in the year of the PIG, 2019 is seen as a hurdle you have jump over as your zodiac year is bad luck. There are multiple explanations for this. The Chinese believe that children can easily be taken by demons. And your benming year (the year of your zodiac animal) is your rebirth year.
Your defence from evil spirits and bad fortune is the colour red. Just as you can decorate your home in red for protection and fortune, you can also wear red clothing. Many people will wear red underwear every day of the year. Others add on red shirts, pants, jewellery, insoles and more! Even in modern times, it’s still treated as a real concern.
Either way I do hope that 2019 is a very good year for you!!
Happy Year of the PIG!!
6 Responses to Happy Year of the PIG from the Alleys of Yuyuan Garden.
looks simply amazing you must be having a great time!
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I am loving Shanghai Andy!! It is such an amazing city to live in and to explore!! Loving the city, the people, the culture and also the food!!
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An awesome post….I loved that area. We visited a beautiful ancient gardens there… yes the crowds are something else! Thanks for the information about the zodiac and its history….fascinating what we humans come to rely on …. 😄
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Thank you so much!! Yes, the gardens are stunning, although I would not brave it during any official holidays as I heard that people stood in line for 90 minutes just to get into the gardens during the chinese new years.
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Awesome photos–thanks for sharing!
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Thank you!! Had so much fun walking around this beautifully decorated place.
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