Haruka Ticket + Kyoto Station Building Common Gift Certificate

Must Do Experiences

• Enjoy the smooth, high-speed ride on the stylish HARUKA train featuring dedicated luggage space and comfortable seating.

• Redeem your 1000-yen gift certificate at Kyoto Station's bustling underground mall, Porta, for authentic Japanese snacks or souvenirs.

• Grab a delicious bento box or a matcha treat from the station's numerous eateries before heading to your hotel.

• Take a moment to admire the stunning futuristic architecture of Kyoto Station's main concourse and its massive glass ceiling.

Hidden Gems

• Head to the rooftop garden of the Kyoto Station Building for a quiet, panoramic view of the city skyline and the distant Kyoto Tower.

• Use your gift certificate at the lesser-known traditional craft shops located on the second floor of the station building for unique, high-quality Kyoto souvenirs.

• Look for the hidden Happy Angel sculpture tucked away near the central underground concourse, a popular spot for locals to take photos for good luck.

What Makes it Special

• Skip the long ticketing queues at the airport with your pre-booked HARUKA e-ticket, allowing you to head straight to the platforms upon arrival.

• The included 1000-yen Kyoto Station Building coupon acts as instant spending money, letting you immediately indulge in local treats or travel essentials.

• Experience the iconic HARUKA train, famously designed with a sleek, aerodynamic exterior and a welcoming interior tailored specifically for international travelers with large luggage.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The HARUKA trains run frequently throughout the day, but boarding during mid-morning or early afternoon helps you avoid the heavy commuter rushes and airport arrival peaks. If you are traveling during the cherry blossom season in spring or the vibrant autumn foliage months, expect the train and Kyoto Station to be exceptionally busy, making early morning arrivals highly recommended for a more relaxed experience.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the breathtaking geometric glass ceiling of Kyoto Station's main concourse from the central underground area, ideally during the golden hour when the sunlight creates dramatic shadows.

• Take a wide-angle shot of the sleek, aerodynamic front of the HARUKA train at Kansai Airport before boarding, ensuring you do not block the flow of passenger traffic.

• For a stunning nighttime photo, head to the station's rooftop garden just after sunset to capture the illuminated Kyoto Tower glowing against the dark sky.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When riding the HARUKA train and navigating Kyoto Station, maintain a quiet demeanor and avoid talking loudly on your mobile phone, as this is considered disrespectful in Japanese public transit. Always stand on the left side of the escalators in the Kansai region to allow people in a hurry to walk up on the right. When using your gift certificate at local shops, a polite bow and a simple arigatou gozaimasu to the staff goes a long way in showing appreciation.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the Gion Matsuri in July, Kyoto Station is decorated with vibrant festival banners and special pop-up stalls selling traditional crafts and street food.

• In winter, the station's central concourse and exterior plazas are beautifully illuminated with stunning light displays, creating a magical atmosphere for arriving travelers.

• During the peak cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, the station hosts special regional tourism booths offering exclusive maps and limited-edition souvenirs.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on your belongings and luggage while navigating the crowded concourses of Kyoto Station, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Mind the gap between the train and the platform when boarding and alighting the HARUKA, and always wait behind the yellow tactile paving lines until the train comes to a complete stop.

• If you feel unwell or need assistance, look for the clearly marked station master offices or approach the uniformed JR staff, who are trained to help international tourists.