What does the 2020 Chinese Zodiac reveal about those born in the Year of the Metal Rat? From element and zodiac sign to lucky colors, compatible ages, personality traits, and life destiny, this guide by BTA Feng Shui explores everything you need to know about Metal Rat 2020.
What Zodiac Animal is 2020? Which Ages Are Compatible?
According to Chinese horoscopes, those born in 2020 are Metal Rat (庚子), governed by the Rat zodiac. Gregorian calendar dates: January 25, 2020, to February 11, 2021. Those born before January 21 are considered Earth Pig.

Metal Rat 2020 has:
- Heavenly Stem Geng (Metal Yang): Compatible with Yi (Wood Yin), in conflict with Jia (Wood Yang) and Bing (Fire Yang).
- Earthly Branch Zi (Rat): Six Harmony with Ox; Three Harmonies (Monkey – Rat – Dragon); Four Clashes (Rat – Horse – Cat – Rooster).
In summary, compatible and incompatible ages for male and female Metal Rat 2020 individuals are as follows:
- Compatible Business Ages: Metal Ox 2021, Wood Dragon 2024, Fire Goat 2027
- Compatible Marriage Ages: Earth Dog 2018, Metal Ox 2021, Wood Dragon 2024, Fire Goat 2027
- Incompatible Ages: Earth Rat 2008, Fire Monkey 2016, Water Tiger 2022, Water Cat 2023, Wood Tiger 2034, Wood Cat 2035
What Element is 2020?
According to the Five Elements theory, people born in 2020 (the Year of the Rat) are linked to the Earth element in the Nayin system, specifically the category Wall Earth (壁上土 – Bì Shàng Tǔ).
However, 2020 is also known as a Metal Rat year because its Heavenly Stem Geng (庚) corresponds to the Metal element in the Stem–Branch cycle. These two descriptions are not conflicting—they simply come from two different traditional classification systems.
In practice, especially in feng shui and personal element analysis, those born in 2020 are considered to carry the Earth element, while Metal Rat describes the elemental nature of the year within the Stem–Branch calendar.

Wall Earth refers to the earth used in traditional mud walls. It serves to shield against sun, rain, thieves, and wild animals, providing a peaceful life for people. Individuals with this element often enjoy good fortune and blessings. They are frequently supported by benefactors, enabling them to achieve success early in life.
What Colors Suit 2020? What Colors to Avoid?
Per the Five Elements, Metal Rat 2020 individuals (Earth Element) are COMPATIBLE with colors: Red, Pink, Purple, Orange, Yellow, Brown Earth, and similar shades. Using these colors for clothing, fashion, car colors, house paint, etc., brings luck and ease to their owners.
However, Metal Rat 2020 individuals should AVOID colors: Green, Forest Green, Black, Navy Blue, Blue, and similar hues. These colors generate negative energy, creating difficulties, challenges, and obstacles for them.
Which Directions Suit Metal Rat 2020?
Determining suitable directions for Metal Rat 2020 relies on the Destiny Palace and Eight Mansions. Details are as follows:
| Male Homeowner – Metal Rat 2020 | Female Homeowner – Metal Rat 2020 | |
| Destiny Palace | Dui (Metal), Western Four Hexagrams | Gen (Earth), Western Four Hexagrams |
| Auspicious Directions | Northwest: Life Energy Northeast: Longevity Southwest: Heavenly Doctor West: Stability |
Southwest: Life Energy West: Longevity Northwest: Heavenly Doctor Northeast: Stability |
| Inauspicious Directions | East: Deathly Fate Southeast: Six Killings North: Misfortune Harm South: Five Ghosts |
Southeast: Deathly Fate East: Six Killings South: Misfortune Harm North: Five Ghosts |
Which Numbers Suit Metal Rat 2020?
Based on the principles of Mutual Generation and Restriction in the Five Elements, Metal Rat 2020 is compatible with numbers: 2, 5, 8, and 9 (representing Earth and Fire Elements).
Personality and Destiny of Metal Rat 2020
Male Metal Rat 2020
Male Metal Rat 2020 individuals typically have a resilient and decisive personality. They are intelligent, quick-witted, and possess creative thinking skills. This nature allows them to adapt easily to life’s challenges. Additionally, they are compassionate, caring toward others, and persistent in pursuing their goals. Their perseverance and endurance are standout strengths, helping them overcome obstacles to achieve success.

The career of male Metal Rat 2020 faces many hardships and trials during their youth and middle years. However, their persistence and relentless effort lead them to career peaks in midlife. From age 27 onward, their career stabilizes, grows strongly, and brings abundant wealth. In their later years, they enjoy a relaxed, happy life, reaping the rewards of their earlier dedication.
The romantic path of male Metal Rat 2020 varies by lunar birth month:
- Born in lunar months 4, 8, 9, 12: They may experience three romantic changes in their lifetime.
- Born in lunar months 1, 2, 3, 5, 10: They face two changes in their love life.
- Born in lunar months 6, 7, 11: They enjoy a single, lifelong romance, living happily with their partner until the end.
Female Metal Rat 2020
Female Metal Rat 2020 individuals are often highly intelligent and agile. They adapt well to any situation, turning challenges into opportunities. Additionally, they are deeply emotional and compassionate, frequently caring for and helping others. However, they should temper their impulsiveness and high self-esteem to avoid unnecessary conflicts.

Female Metal Rat 2020 individuals typically enjoy a fairly smooth career. From age 27 onward, their career becomes solid and fulfilling. They encounter much luck in midlife, living a prosperous and comfortable life.
The romantic path of female Metal Rat 2020 shifts based on lunar birth month:
- Born in lunar months 1, 2, 5, 8, 10, 12: They experience two romantic changes.
- Born in lunar months 4, 9: They may face three changes.
- Born in lunar months 3, 6, 7, 11: Their love life is smooth with minimal disruptions.
Through this guide, we’ve explored the personality, destiny, career path, and love life of those born under the 2020 Chinese Zodiac – the Metal Rat. From element and zodiac animal to lucky colors and compatibility, we hope these insights help you better understand this birth year.
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