About the Chinese Almanac
The Chinese Almanac (黄历, Huánglì) — literally “Yellow Emperor’s Calendar” — is one of the oldest continuous systems for choosing auspicious timing. For over two thousand years, people across East Asia have consulted it before weddings, business openings, house moves, and even haircuts.
How It Works
Each day is characterized by a unique combination of:
- Heavenly Stem & Earthly Branch (天干地支): The traditional sexagenary cycle that names each day
- Auspicious Activities (宜): Actions that harmonize with the day’s energy
- Inauspicious Activities (忌): Actions better postponed to another day
- Clash Direction (冲煞): The zodiac sign and compass direction in conflict with the day
- Star Officers (值星): The presiding star that colors the day’s character — some are lucky (黄道, Golden Path), others less so (黑道, Dark Path)
Daily Officers (建除十二值星)
The Twelve Day Officers rotate through a fixed cycle tied to the month’s Earthly Branch. Each officer carries a general temperament:
| Officer | Nature | Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Establish (建) | Initiating | Starting projects, opening businesses |
| Remove (除) | Clearing | Cleaning, medical treatment, removing obstacles |
| Full (满) | Abundant | Celebrations, receiving wealth |
| Balance (平) | Neutral | Routine matters, minor repairs |
| Stable (定) | Settling | Contracts, engagements, planting |
| Hold (执) | Grasping | Building, capturing, legal matters |
| Break (破) | Disrupting | Demolition, breaking bad habits |
| Danger (危) | Precarious | Worship, climbing heights (with caution) |
| Success (成) | Completing | Finalizing deals, moving in, weddings |
| Receive (收) | Collecting | Harvesting, collecting debts, storage |
| Open (开) | Opening | Grand openings, travel, new ventures |
| Close (闭) | Closing | Funerals, sealing, repairs |
How to Use This Tool
- Check today’s almanac for a quick overview of auspicious timing
- Browse any date using the date picker to plan ahead
- Download the card to share with friends or save for reference