Originally Posted by
ksandness
Yes, take the Haruka Express to Kyoto, 70 minutes.
KIX is actually quite a ways out of the city of Osaka proper, and it makes just as much sense to spend your time in Kyoto, especially if you've never been there. Get a guidebook and map out your sightseeing route in advance.
+1 to this suggestion! For Y4000 you can get a two day JR west pass that includes your round trip Haruka tickets (normally over Y6000).