Learn the fastest and most affordable routes to Osaka English House (OEH) with our transportation guide so that you can navigate the journey from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Hirakata with confidence!
Kansai International Airport (KIX) is built on a man-made island and serves the Greater Osaka area. Since it is a bit out of town, it will take some time to arrive in Hirakata, but several options are available, varying in duration, comfort, and cost.
Travel by Train
Travelling to Hirakata by train is the recommended option given the frequency of service, ease of travel, and relatively low cost.
There is only direct train access from Terminal 1. If your plane arrives at Terminal 2, you will have to take a free shuttle bus to Terminal 1 to get to the train station. This takes less than 10 minutes, and there are departures every few minutes. There will be clearly marked signs directing you to the shuttle bus stop, so keep an eye out for those.
Once you arrive at Terminal 1, follow the signs for “Trains” or “Railways” and walk across the pedestrian bridge until you reach the train station. There are multiple options for taking the train to Hirakatashi Station in Hirakata, including:
Option 1
Take the Kansaikuko line (direction Kyobashi) from the airport to Kyobashi Station. You can then transfer to the Keihan Line (direction Demachiyanagi) until you reach Hirakatashi Station. This will take about 1 hour 45 minutes and cost about ¥1530. While this takes a bit longer than some other routes, you will only have to take 2 trains instead of 3.
Option 2
Take the Nankai-Kuko Line (direction Nankai-Namba) until you arrive at Tengachaya Station. Then switch to the Sakaisuji Line (direction Takatsukishi) until you reach Kitahama Station. Then jump on the Keihan Line (direction Demachiyanagi) until you arrive at Hirakatashi Station. This route will take about 1 hr 35 minutes and cost approximately ¥1,560.
Option 3
A slightly faster but more expensive option is to take the Nankai Limited Express (direction Nankai-Namba) until you reach Tengachaya Station. Then switch to the Sakaisuji Line (direction Takasukishi) until Kitahama Station, where you will jump on the Keihan Line (direction Demachiyanagi) until you get to Hirakatashi. This route will take about 1 hr 25 minutes and cost approximately ¥2,080.
Top Tips for Travelling by Train
To see exact train times, fares, and other important information, use a transit app such as Google Maps or Navitime. There may also be other train routes available depending on the time of day that you are travelling, so be sure to check these apps when you are ready to depart to see the most current itineraries.
Once you reach Hirakatashi Station, it is an easy 10-minute walk to OEH!
If you are travelling by train, be aware that there may be limited space for large luggage on board. If you have big suitcases or backpacks, try to avoid peak rush hour when trains are most crowded (approximately 7 am to 9 am and 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm).
Alternatively, you can use a luggage forwarding service such as Yamato Transport to have your luggage sent to your hotel or guesthouse (just be sure to confirm with your accommodation that they are able to accept your luggage for you).
Travel by Limousine Bus
Please note that as of May 2025, the limousine bus to Hirakatashi Station operated by the Kansai Airport Transportation Service is suspended. You can take the limousine bus to Osaka and then take the train to Hirakata, but this will not be the fastest or cheapest option, especially compared to taking the train for the entire journey.
Opting for a Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis are quite expensive in Japan, but are available for those seeking a more comfortable transportation option. The taxi stand at Terminal 1 is located outside near Door H. A taxi from Kansai Airport to Hirakata will take around 1 hr 15 minutes and cost ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 (though the exact fare will depend on the meter reading).
Alternatively, you can use Rideshare apps such as Uber, DiDi, or GO. The pickup area from Terminal 1 is located outside near Door E. Download the app for exact fares, but the cost will be similar to a taxi.
Arriving in Hirakata
Congratulations! You have now navigated the trip from the airport with ease and have arrived in Hirakata! Enjoy your time in this amazing area, where you will experience authentic Japan while having easy access to famous tourist sights only a train ride away.
Once you arrive at Hirakata, it is a breezy 10-minute walk to OEH!
If you’re hungry after your journey from the airport, there are lots of nice and affordable places to eat close to the train station, including EiTo 8 (ramen), Kineya Hirakatashokuyukanten, or Yayoiken Hirakata.
For more information on the best attractions, food, and shopping in Hirakata, check out our guide to The Best of Hirakata: History, Nature, and Hidden Gems around Osaka English House.
There are also grocery stores, shops, and konbinis (convenience stores) in the immediate vicinity of the station, so you will have everything you need!
FAQs: Kansai Airport to Hirakata transportation
Take the JR Haruka Limited Express or Airport Rapid Service to Tennoji Station (or Shin-Osaka Station, then transfer to the JR Osaka Loop Line and go to Kyobashi Station. At Kyobashi, transfer to the Keihan Line bound for Hirakatashi Station. The total travel time is 80 to 100 minutes with 2 transfers.
The cost is approximately 1,600 to 2,200 yen, depending on the route and train type. You can use IC cards such as ICOCA, Suica, and PASMO on all lines.
Unfortunately, there are no direct buses. However, you may take an airport limousine bus to Osaka Station or Kyoto Station, and then take a train to Hirakata.
Use the airport luggage delivery (Takkyubin) service to send bags directly to your residence or hotel!
If you arrive before 9:00 PM, you can usually make the last train.
