A new interactive tourism experience has arrived in Honolulu, transforming traditional sightseeing into an immersive adventure. XploreRide, a cutting-edge augmented-reality bus tour, now offers visitors a unique way to explore Waikiki and Diamond Head. With the aid of XR (cross-reality) headsets, passengers can interact with a virtual environment layered over real-world landscapes, making their journey through Hawaii more engaging and educational.
XploreRide, a project by Hawaii HIS in collaboration with creative firm Naked and the University of Tokyo’s IT venture Synesthesias, provides a 45-minute tour covering a 6.4-mile loop. The experience is available in both English and Japanese, allowing guests to select their preferred language via the headset.
The route takes visitors through iconic locations, including the picturesque Waikiki Beach and the majestic Diamond Head. However, the tour is not just about physical landmarks; passengers are transported into a virtual world that reveals “Hawaii’s hidden underwater city.” This digital enhancement offers a fresh perspective on Hawaii’s landscapes while incorporating cultural storytelling and interactive elements, such as collecting mana stones, which add a gamified aspect to the journey.
While the experience is highly digital, it does not lose sight of Hawaii’s cultural heritage. HIS collaborated with Hawaiian cultural expert Blaine Kamalani Kia to ensure that historical facts and traditional narratives presented in the tour remain accurate and respectful. This guarantees that visitors receive an educational experience grounded in authenticity while enjoying the advanced technology.
Additionally, XploreRide embraces sustainability through the use of electric vehicles (EVs) for a zero-emissions tour. In alignment with Malama Hawaii conservation efforts, a portion of the tour’s proceeds is donated to the Waikiki Aquarium, supporting marine life conservation.
The XploreRide bus departs and returns to Royal Hawaiian Avenue and operates six times daily. It is open to passengers aged seven and above, making it a family-friendly activity for those exploring Honolulu.
Ticket pricing is set at:
- $48 for children aged 7 to 11
- $68 for passengers 12 and older
For a limited time, an introductory discount of 50% is available until mid-March, offering visitors an opportunity to experience this new adventure at a reduced price.
XploreRide is redefining tourism in Honolulu by integrating augmented reality into a traditional bus tour. The combination of scenic beauty, immersive storytelling, and interactive digital experiences creates a one-of-a-kind adventure for both first-time visitors and returning travelers. With a focus on cultural integrity, environmental responsibility, and technological innovation, XploreRide offers a glimpse into the future of travel experiences in Hawaii.
For those seeking a fresh way to explore Honolulu while engaging with its history, nature, and legends in a visually captivating format, XploreRide promises an unforgettable journey.
