Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces an intriguing new mechanic called Kuji-kiri, allowing players to delve into protagonist Naoe’s past through meditative rituals. Finding all 22 Kuji-kiri spots scattered across feudal Japan not only provides valuable Knowledge Points but also unlocks key story elements. This guide will help you locate every Kuji-kiri in the game, organized by region.
What are Kuji-kiri?
Kuji-kiri are special meditation spots where Naoe can reflect on her past experiences. Each completed Kuji-kiri rewards the player with:
- 1 Knowledge Point
- A brief glimpse into Naoe’s backstory
- Progress towards the “Zen Master” achievement/trophy
The first four Kuji-kiri you complete will trigger unique story missions, providing deeper insights into Naoe’s character development. Subsequent Kuji-kiri offer additional Knowledge Points to unlock higher-tier skills.
Izumi Settsu Kuji-kiri Locations
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Eboshigata Hachiman Shrine: Northeast of Makinoodera Temple, on a rock left of a large tree trunk.
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Tomiko’s Homestead: In your first Hideout, follow the stone path under the cherry blossom tree towards the small waterfall.
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Rolling Glen: Take the southwestern road from Tomiko’s Homestead to Osaka, continuing into Katano Foothills.
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Sacred Bridge: Follow the main river east from Tomiko’s Homestead. Look for a shrine structure indicating the path.
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Windy Shores: On the far western coast of Izumi Settsu, near the Lumber Aisle and west of Amagasaki Castle.
Yamashiro Kuji-kiri Locations
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The Cliffs of Thought: Southwest of Yamashiro. Follow the path southwest of Shoryuji Castle into a wooded area.
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Ginkakuji Garden: Within the courtyard outside of Ginkakuji Temple, east of Kyoto.
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Kuramadera Temple: Along the pathway directly above Kuramadera Temple in northern Yamashiro.
Omi Kuji-kiri Locations
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Three-Trunked Tree: Follow the main river connecting Wakasa to Omi in the west. Look for a stone outcropping above the river.
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Himega Falls: In the Takashima Shores area, north of Omi. Travel from the Mount Peak fast travel point, taking the main pathway downwards and southeast.
Iga Kuji-kiri Locations
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Naoe’s House: On the back porch of Naoe’s house, southeast of Mibuno Castle.
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Cliffside Buddha: West of the Nabari Wilds, southwest of the Nabari Lookout fast travel point and Kashiwara Fort.
Harima Kuji-kiri Locations
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Mount Sen: Directly south of the Mount Sen fast travel point in northern Harima.
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Harima’s Peak: Northwest of Harima, on a cliff face opposite the Kaya Shrine. Climbing required.
Wakasa Kuji-kiri Locations
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Kajii Monzeki Temple: Just outside the temple walls, overlooking the lake. Southeast of Wakasa, near the border of Omi.
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Pond of the Heron: Along the Shattered Coast in central-west Wakasa. Take the southwestern exit out of Obama, past the lighthouse.
Yamato Kuji-kiri Locations
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Soni Highlands: Northern Yamato, in the field between the Uda Matsuyama and Mount Nukai fast travel points.
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Nyoirinji Footpath: Within the entrance of Nyoirinji Temple, east of the Nyoirinji Falls fast travel point.
Tamba Kuji-kiri Locations
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Seirinji Temple: Within a small courtyard in Seirunji Temple, south of Kameyama Castle (southeast Tamba).
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Sukyoji Temple: Take the main road south out of Miyazi Bay. The spot is located outside the main temple, on the stairs.
Kii Kuji-kiri Locations
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Kumano Nachi Waterfall: Far east of the Kii region, at the base of Nachi Waterfall, opposite Hiro Shrine and near Seigantoji Pagoda.
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Shores of Kii: Western shore of Kii. Take the main road east out of the coastal town, Gobo. Look for a small outcropping of land.
How to Complete a Kuji-kiri
To interact with a Kuji-kiri spot:
Step 1: Approach the glowing meditation area and press the interaction button to begin.
Step 2: Follow the on-screen button prompts, pressing them in rhythm with the visual cues.
Step 3: As the sequence progresses, the rhythm may speed up or require multiple simultaneous button presses.
Step 4: Complete the entire sequence without mistakes to unlock the memory or receive your Knowledge Point.
Tip: Pay attention to the white ring surrounding the prompts, indicating which buttons need to be pressed together.
Maximizing Your Kuji-kiri Experience
- Complete the first four Kuji-kiri early to unlock important story missions.
- Use Knowledge Points to unlock higher-tier skills that complement your playstyle.
- Explore thoroughly, as some Kuji-kiri are hidden in hard-to-reach locations.
- Consider adjusting the difficulty settings if you struggle with the rhythm game aspect.
Mastering the art of Kuji-kiri not only provides valuable gameplay benefits but also offers a unique window into Naoe’s past. By finding all 22 locations, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the protagonist’s journey while unlocking powerful new abilities to aid you in your quest across feudal Japan.