The 28 Mansions

The Twenty-Eight Mansions (二十八宿) divide the celestial equator into 28 segments.

Four Quadrants

Each quadrant has 7 mansions, each ruled by one of the Four Symbols.

Practical Uses

• Agricultural calendar
• Maritime navigation
• Astrology and fate calculation
• Imperial court ceremonies

Comparison with Western System

While the Greeks saw pictures in stars, the Chinese saw districts along the moon's path.