Six secret spots not to miss in Kyoto, Japan

It has become one of the most popular spots in the world, and a city everybody seems to be visiting right now.

Kyoto in Japan is the nation's ancient capital, best known for its traditional streets and hundreds of temples.

New book Hidden Pockets in Kyoto by Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh covers secret spots you need to know, from cafes to eat and drink at to the best shopping, temples and cultural experiences.

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Here are some of their best picks.

Walden Woods Kyoto

If you fancy getting your caffeine hit in a "surrealist white cube" head to this cafe.

It aims to recreate an "imagined forest in the snow," with the theatre-style space aiming to allow coffee drinkers to observe each other.

Or you could just enjoy your morning brew - and buy some beans to take home.

Menu highlights include the homemade chai, matcha soft cream and vegan walden hot dog.

Get more details here.

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Soiree Tea Room

This retro-chic cafe will fulfill all your instagram dreams.

It dates back to 1948 and remains a hotspot for locals and tourists.

The book authors describe it as "a mesmerising experience" which attracts everyone from ladies who lunch to local workers.

They note the menu is only in Japanese - but there are plenty of photos to help you order.

The garishly-coloured jelly and ice cream they've been serving since the 1970s is a must-try.

Get more details here.

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Nishiki Market

This market is "bustling loud and crazy" the book says, adding it's dubbed the "kitchen of Kyoto."

They recommend trying the matcha warabi mochi (powdered sweet jelly) at a stall called Sawawa.

Also anybody in the market for some Japanese kitchen knives should also head here to buy them before heading home.

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Visit here for more details

Kamiji kakimoto

Stationery addicts should head to this shop in the ancient capital.

It dates back to 1845 and is famous for its washi, or handmade paper.

Paperweights fashioned around eggs, fans and postcards are among the other beautiful goodies you'll be packing your suitcase with.

Visit here for more details.

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Eikan-do temple

Sixteen of Kyoto's 200 temples have been declared World heritage sites, which indicates how special they are.

Among the ones the new book recommends visiting, is this one, which is the head temple for the Seizan branch of Japan's Jdo-sh Buddhist sect

During autumn especially the colour of the turning leaves adds to the beauty.

The temple dates back to 853 CE when it was a villa gifted to a priest.

After enjoying the tranquillity, you can get refreshments at the tea house within the grounds.

Get more details here.

Sagano Bamboo grove

Dubbed an "iconic bamboo forest walk," by the book authors, get in touch with nature at this popular spot, which isn't really a secret anymore.

It's a 500m long natural grove of the plant, which is so tall it curves into a cathedral-like roof.

The writers say can be a wonderfully still spot, with bird song to be heard through the rustling plants.

It's open day and night, so get up early to beat the crowds who converge later.

Get more details here.