XploreRide, a new interactive tour bus experience, has launched in Honolulu. The 45-minute ride makes a 6.4-mile loop around Waikiki and Diamond Head while passengers interact with a virtual environment through an XR, or cross-reality, headset.
The tour is organized by Hawaii HIS and created in partnership with creative company Naked and an IT venture from the University of Tokyo, Synethesias. It's available in English and Japanese — guests can pick their preferred language using the headset.
The XploreRide's route takes visitors around Waikiki and Diamond Head. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Hawaii HIS
"While touring popular sightseeing spots in Honolulu such as Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, passengers will explore 'Hawaii's hidden underwater city,' blending real life landscapes and digital environments," a news release stated.
"They can enjoy an unprecedented immersive bus tour that unravels the mysteries of Hawaii while collecting mana stones," it continued. "This tour is designed to entertain first-time visitors as well as repeat travelers and locals, to discover the charm of Hawaii through a new lens."
HIS consulted with Hawaiian cultural consultant Blaine Kamalani Kia to ensure historical facts and cultural traditions presented in the tour are accurate. It also took into consideration Malama Hawaii conservation efforts by using EV buses to create a zero-emissions tour and by donating a portion of profits to the Waikiki Aquarium.
XploreRide picks up and drops off on Royal Hawaiian Avenue and operates six times per day. It's available for ages 7 years and older. Prices are $48 for ages 7 to 11; $68 for 12 years and older. It's currently running an opening rate of 50% off until mid-March.