A woman walks her bicycle through the square in front of the Palace Museum's Wumen Gate on Feb 29. The museum has been closed since Jan 25 because of the epidemic. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)

On Jan 24, Beijing authorities started imposing strict measures to prevent and control the spread of the novel coronavirus among residents. While the strategies were harsh, people changed their daily routines to restrict their movements, understanding the crucial role personal behavior played in stopping the outbreak. Photographer Kang Taisen documented people's lives under the shadow of the epidemic in Beijing.

A father and son play street hockey in the square in front of the Beijing Exhibition Center on Feb 20. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)

Wearing Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) costumes, a group of people prepare to take a photo at the Summer Palace on Feb 29. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)

Few customers are seen at the Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park on Feb 29. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)

As many Beijing residents choose to drive to work, a large number of shared bicycles remain idle at an intersection on Zhongguanchun Avenue on Feb 24. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)

A man performs a handstand against a wall on Dong'anmen Avenue on Feb 29. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)

Many stores along Wudaoying Hutong remain closed on Feb 20. (KANG TAISEN / FOR CHINA DAILY)