The online cultural offerings amid the COVID-19 public health emergency covered many other creative spheres. One recent music festival, involving the Beijing Contemporary Art Foundation and drawing more than 70 leading figures from the arts, entertainment and literary fields, provided what event organizers said was much-needed support for family ties, social cohesion and cultural exchanges, in the face of psychological and other pressures brought about by dealing with the virus.

A piano piece by accomplished Japanese composer and music producer Ryuichi Sakamoto was a highlight of the event, which attracted about 23 million online hits and more than 6 million responses.

In his message to children, the Japanese composer said: "It must be hard not to be able to go out and play, but… use that time to read a lot of books and listen to a lot of music. Painting, writing poetry, playing musical instruments and watching movies aren't bad either.

"And don't forget to exercise at home. Let's do our best to get over these difficult times!"

Other art and music luminaries similarly pitched in with digital messages of encouragement and best wishes for families affected by the temporary suspension of classes and social activities.

"Many of life's details await our patience and multiple perspectives. We can use our time at home during this special period to communicate with ourselves, our family and space, through physical perception and exploration," choreographer Dai Lu said.

"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times. If one only remembers to turn on the light," musician Zhang Jiadi said.