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Today, we are introducing a unique and exciting NEW style of sightseeing in Hawaii!
This is a completely new and fun way to tour Oahu and Waikiki—where tourism meets technology! Introducing the immersive sightseeing bus, XploreRide.
What is XploreRide?
Simply put, XploreRide is a sightseeing bus that departs from Waikiki and takes you on a tour around the area, including Diamond Head, along Waikiki Beach and Ala Wai Canal. But here’s the twist—you get to experience a virtual world during the ride! It’s an adventure ride using Cross Reality (XR) technology.
The project is produced by NAKED, Inc., a creative company well-known in Japan for experiential events that blend projection mapping and digital art in cities across the country.
What is a Cross Reality (XR) Experience?
Cross Reality, or XR, is a general term for technologies that blend the real world with virtual experiences, creating entirely new ways of interacting with your environment.
XR includes the following technologies:
VR (Virtual Reality): Provides a fully immersive experience in a completely virtual world. It makes you feel as if you’ve been transported to an entirely different place.
AR (Augmented Reality): Overlays digital images or information onto the real world using devices like smartphones or AR glasses.
MR (Mixed Reality): Blends the real and virtual worlds even more deeply by allowing virtual objects to interact with the real world in real time.
What Kind of Experience Awaits You on XploreRide?
It may sound complicated, but the experience itself is super simple and fun! Just hop on the bus that departs from in front of Waikiki’s DFS, put on the special head-mounted display, and you’re ready to go. Friendly staff will assist you in adjusting the goggles so they’re comfortable—not too tight, not too loose.
Theme: “An Underwater Adventure in a Hidden Hawaiian City”
Once the bus departs, a guide named Uncle Manu, a spiritual figure representing Hawaiian ancestors, will greet you! And it’s not just a passive sightseeing ride—you’ll be given a mission!
As you look out the window, you’ll see tropical fish, the state fish humuhumunukunukuāpua’a, dolphins, and Hawaiian monk seals swimming alongside. Without giving too much away, your mission is to collect “Mana Stones”. These stones hold the key to unlocking Hawaii’s ancient mysteries.
A Deep Respect for Hawaiian Culture
This tour bus isn’t just about fun—it’s packed with content that honors Hawaiian culture, nature, and the spirit of Malama Hawaii, which emphasizes care and responsibility toward the islands. The cultural elements are supervised by Hawaiian Cultural Advisor and Kumu Hula, Blaine Kamalani Kia, ensuring authenticity and respect for Hawaiian history and traditions.
Travel Tip:
The entire tour takes about 25 to 30 minutes, and there are six departures a day, making it a perfect quick break during shopping or sightseeing!
Try It Now!
After a Virtual Ocean Adventure… Why Not Dive into the Real One?
If XploreRide sparks your curiosity about the real Hawaiian ocean, here are two unforgettable tours we recommend:
Observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat, and enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and even a fun waterslide. Feel the magic of Hawaii’s ocean like never before! (Note: Swimming with wild spinner dolphins is prohibited under Hawaii state regulations.)
Snorkel alongside wild sea turtles and discover the peaceful beauty of Hawaii’s marine life. These gentle creatures will melt your heart!
Both tours are offered by And You Creations and provide authentic, eco-conscious experiences where you can truly connect with Hawaii’s nature and culture.
For more information, visit our store in Waikiki (307 Lewers St #410B, Honolulu, HI 96815 – on the 4th floor of the Watumull Building with the Kelley O’Neil’s), or check out our official website!
