As children of a bustling city, we seem to be perfectly adapted to the incredible pace of everyday life. But deep down, perhaps we are all thirsty for a place of serenity and quietude, not just to relax, but also to refresh and rejuvenate ourselves.

Silver Tinkling is just such a place. It was born under the shades of the Chinese Banyans on Bonham Road in 2006. Its raison d’etre can’t be simpler: to introduce the unique delicacy of Chinese tea to the general public, and to provide a tranquil atmosphere for tea-lovers to fully appreciate the exquisiteness of the contents of the cup.

From the furniture to the decorations, Silver Tinkling is reminiscent of old China down to the tiniest detail. All types of tea on offer are scrupulously chosen by the owner to represent the six categories of Chinese tea; most are bought directly from at their places of origin. Every year the owner visits Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Anhui, Jiangxi and Taiwan in search of great teas, and by establishing good relations with the local tea farmers, not only does she guarantee the quality of the tea leaves, but she also ensures that the trade is exploitation-free. Thus you can drink your tea with a clear conscience.

After five years, Silver Tinkling at Bonham had to move to Tai Po due to commercial considerations. Despite its distance from the city central, the Tai Po teahouse embraces a complete sought-after tranquility in the arms of Ma On Shan, Pat Sin Leng and Tolo Harbour. Here you can indulge yourself in the lights of dawns and twilights as well as the singings of birds and cicadas.

A visit to Silver Tinkling is a feast for the soul. Nestle yourself in the tender sound of the zither and flowing water, hold the warm ceramic tea cup in your palms, close your eyes and feel the rich aftertaste of the tea lingering in your throat: it is a sensation that you can hardly ever forget. Leave the hustle and bustle outside the door: behind the bamboo curtain is a new world waiting for you to discover.