XploreRide Debuts Hawai’i’s First XR Sightseeing Bus Tour on O’ahu

Hawai‘i Launches First XR-Enhanced Sightseeing Tour with XploreRide on O‘ahu

Hawai‘i’s tourism scene has entered a new era with the launch of XploreRide, a first-of-its-kind sightseeing tour on O‘ahu that merges extended reality (XR) technology with immersive storytelling rooted in Hawaiian history, culture, and natural landscapes. Developed by Hawaii HIS Corporation, XploreRide sets a new standard for culturally respectful and technologically advanced travel experiences in the Islands.

The official opening began with a traditional Hawaiian blessing by cultural practitioner Kumu Blaine Kamalani Kia, who welcomed guests with chants, lei greetings, and reflections honoring the land and its ancestors. This ceremony underscored XploreRide’s foundational values of cultural respect, local collaboration, and intentional exploration.

“XploreRide is more than a tour; it’s where Hawai‘i’s heritage meets modern innovation,” said Yuki Toshida, Manager of XploreRide. “We built this experience with Hawai‘i in mind first. Every story, every scene, and every sound is meant to reflect and protect the spirit of this land. We want visitors to ride with purpose and leave with connection.”

Aboard modern, comfortable buses, travelers are immersed in dynamic XR experiences that overlay archival imagery, indigenous artwork, and synchronized audio narration onto O‘ahu’s natural surroundings. Through sweeping views and panoramic windows, guests explore the island from land, sea, and sky, guided by traditional chants, hula rhythms, and the voices of local storytellers.

The experience was developed in close partnership with Hawaiian cultural advisors, educators, and artists to ensure historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity. It’s also designed with sustainability in mind, using shared-group formats to reduce traffic and emissions across the island.

“This is a new way to ride. A new way to see Hawaiʻi,” added Toshida. “With XploreRide, it’s not just about seeing the island, it’s about truly understanding it.”

Public bookings for XploreRide are now open at xploreride.com, with group discounts available. The initiative aligns with Hawaii HIS Corporation’s longstanding commitment to responsible and regenerative tourism through partnerships with organizations such as Hawaii Tourism Japan and the Mālama Hawai‘i campaign.