According to the legend, a hord of carps swam towards the source of the Yellow River until they reached a fall. Most of the carps discouraged and went back along the stream whilst a group tried to go past the fall.
In the end, despite some demons making the fall even higher, a carp succedeed reaching its top, being then turnt into a dragon by the gods on account of her determination.

Carps swimming symbolize the search for knowledge and the carp itself is a symbol for tenacity, determination and courage.