Airport Transfer (Haruka Express) from Kyoto to Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Traveling by train in Japan

Japan boasts a highly developed rail system, making it an extremely practical mode of transportation for both local and long-distance travel. Consequently, both residents and tourists frequently find themselves utilizing trains almost daily, whether they are using local train services or the renowned Shinkansen bullet trains. For those embarking on their inaugural journey to Japan, the significance of train travel during their visit undoubtedly comes to mind.

Although train travel is a common aspect of life in Japan, there are several factors that may necessitate some prior understanding or preparation before first-time travelers board a train. This is true even for individuals hailing from countries with a well-established train travel culture.

What makes trains so popular in Japan?

Japan's rail transportation network is regarded as one of the finest globally. The experience of taking a train in Japan can be encapsulated in three adjectives: efficient, fast, and clean. Until one has experienced it firsthand, it is difficult to comprehend just how simple and remarkably convenient train travel is in Japan. Despite the fact that millions of passengers utilize Japan's rail system daily, trains consistently remain immaculate, punctual, and operational. For many readers, this description may seem like a dream compared to the train networks in their own countries.

There are numerous factors contributing to this remarkable railway system, but it can essentially be attributed to Japan's dependence on fossil fuel imports, which led the nation to make significant investments in its transportation infrastructure via trains. Since the late 19th century, Japanese train companies have been constructing lines to transport people and goods efficiently from one location to another, and as a result of this extensive network, cities began to develop around train stations. While much of Western urban development has centered on automobile-oriented infrastructure, Japan has primarily expanded its urban areas around train stations. In most Japanese cities, train stations serve as the economic and demographic hubs of the area. 

Through strategic investment in its train system, Japan has successfully established one of the most dependable, rapid, and secure rail networks globally!

Train information

Since it is the primary route for most Kansai residents to get to and from the airport, the Haruka Limited Express Train on the Kansai Airport Line is crucial not only for tourists but also for locals. Starting from Kansai International Airport's Terminal 1, the train travels all the way to Kyoto, making stops at various stations in Osaka Prefecture and the Osaka City metropolitan area.

Shin-Osaka Station, Osaka Station, and Tennoj Station are some of these stops. The surroundings of Tennoji Station are vintage, with landmarks dating considerably further back in Japanese history. Osaka Station and Shin-Osaka Station, located on opposite ends of the Osaka Loop Line and just a single stop apart, are situated in the city's business district, surrounded by massive buildings and retail centers. 

Depending on the stop, the ride to central Osaka takes about 45 minutes, but the entire trip from KIX to Kyoto takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Ride the Haruka Limited Express to specific stations and make connections to other Kansai destinations, like Himeji and Nara. Local lines from Kyoto Station go to other noteworthy places in the larger Kyoto Prefecture, such as Arashiyama and Uji.