What is the Japanese zodiac name for the Dragon?

The Japanese zodiac name for the Dragon is Tatsu.

Japan uses a 12-animal zodiac corresponding closely to the Chinese zodiac, but the animals are identified with Japanese names. Tatsu is the Japanese term for the Dragon and is also associated with the earthly branch tatsu. The Japanese zodiac sequence places Tatsu fifth, after U (Rabbit) and before Mi (Snake).

Japanese zodiac names can look unfamiliar because they are often derived from traditional readings rather than modern everyday animal vocabulary. For example, Ushi means Ox, Uma means Horse, and Hitsuji means Sheep or Goat. These terms belong to the zodiac system and may appear in calendars, New Year greetings, temple imagery, and cultural references.

A common mix-up is assuming every Japanese zodiac animal has a completely different identity from its Chinese counterpart. Most signs correspond directly, although Japan traditionally uses Sheep where Chinese usage often says Goat. Tatsu, however, clearly corresponds to the Dragon in both systems.