The JR Haruka Kansai Airport Express is the fastest and most direct rail connection between Kansai International Airport (KIX) and the major cities of the Kansai region — Tennoji, Osaka, Shin-Osaka, and Kyoto — making it a top choice for travelers heading into the city immediately after landing. The limited express train covers the KIX-to-Kyoto route in approximately 75 minutes, with departures roughly every 30 minutes from Kansai Airport Station.

Designed with comfort in mind, the Haruka features reclining, 180-degree rotating seats (allowing groups to face each other or all face the direction of travel), dedicated luggage storage space, and onboard Wi-Fi. Green Class (First Class) carriages are available at the front of the train for travelers seeking extra comfort. Some services run as the specially decorated Hello Kitty Haruka, a popular option among visitors.

For 2026, the ticket is available as a WEST QR E-Ticket, allowing travelers to skip station ticket queues entirely and board using just a QR code on their smartphone, in addition to the traditional physical ticket redeemable at green ticket machines. This discounted one-way ticket is exclusively available to travelers holding a foreign passport with Temporary Visitor status, and cannot be used by Japanese nationals or permanent residents.