"The Onryo Samurai" is one of the early missions in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, serving as a tutorial for Naoe’s unique playstyle. Following the events of "Fight of Kakushiba Ikki," Naoe and her injured father seek refuge at Tomiko’s home. After recovering, Naoe sets out to track down a stolen item, leading her to Katano Castle—a location filled with guards, hidden pathways, and valuable loot.
This guide will cover:
- How to reach Katano Castle
- Locating all three box positions
- Using Naoe’s grappling hook & stealth mechanics
- Tips for avoiding detection & completing the mission efficiently
Step 1: Journey to Katano Castle
After the cutscene at Tomiko’s house, you’ll regain control of Naoe. Since the map isn’t yet unlocked, follow these steps:
Follow the Blue Quest Marker – The compass at the top of your screen will guide you toward Katano Castle.Leave the Hideout – A brief fade-to-black indicates you’ve entered the open world.Summon Your Horse – Hold ↓ on the D-Pad (or equivalent) to call your mount, making travel faster.Ride Northwest – Katano Castle is a short distance away.Pro Tip: If you explore the surrounding area before heading to the castle, you may find early-game loot or hidden collectibles.
Step 2: Infiltrating Katano Castle
Upon arrival, you’ll need to locate three boxes—only one contains the stolen item.
Box Location #1 – Climbing the Tower
- Objective: "Climb the Tower"
- Mechanics Tutorial: This section teaches you how to use Naoe’s grappling hook for vertical traversal.
Approach the marked tower (blue quest marker).Use the grappling hook (L1/LB) to reach higher ledges.Reach the top and use Observation Mode (Left Trigger) to scan the area.- Blue orbs = Quest items
- Other colors = Enemies, loot, or points of interest
Loot the first box – Unfortunately, this only contains basic resources (materials, currency).Box Location #2 – Courtyard Infiltration
From the tower, head north toward the next blue marker.
Grapple across the rooftops (look for the swing prompt).Enemy Encounter: Multiple guards patrol the courtyard below.- Stealth Approach:
- Use kunai (R1/RB) to break a lantern, creating a distraction.
- Sneak past or assassinate isolated enemies.
- Alternative: If detected, use hit-and-run tactics (Naoe is agile but fragile early on).
Enter the building and loot the second box—again, only resources.- Naoe remarks: "The thief must still be carrying it."
Box Location #3 – The Onryo Samurai
The final box is guarded by the Onryo Samurai, a mini-boss.
Move to the rear of the building—look for a bamboo scaffold leading to the castle walls.Climb up and follow the wall west.Eliminate the archer patrolling the area.Spot the Onryo Samurai below—use Observation Mode to mark him.Air Assassination:- Grapple to the tree branch above him.
- Press Square/X to perform a lethal takedown.
Loot the final box—this contains the stolen item, completing the quest.Additional Tips & Secrets
- Eagle Vision & Observation Mode – Essential for spotting enemies and loot through walls.
- Early Fast Travel Points – Unlock synchronization points (tall structures) for quick returns.
- Legendary Chests – Some are hidden in locked areas; return later with better tools.
Conclusion
"The Onryo Samurai" is a perfect introduction to Naoe’s stealth and mobility in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. By mastering the grappling hook, distractions, and air assassinations, you’ll be ready for tougher missions ahead.
Looking for more guides? Check out our interactive map for all fast travel points, collectibles, and legendary chests in Assassin’s Creed Shadows!
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS
Genre(s): Action role-playing
Developer(s): Ubisoft, Ubisoft Montreal, Ubisoft Quebec ·
Release date: March 20, 2025
▶
Other Articles Related
All Secret Treasure Locations in Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of AwajiDiscover all secret treasures in Assassin's Creed Shadows: Claws of Awaji. Uncover hidden gems and enhance your gaming
How to skip time in Assassin's Creed ShadowsMaster time itself in Assassin's Creed Shadows. Learn the quickest methods toskip time between day and night cycles to optimize your stealth andexploration.
How to complete The Puppet Show quest in Assassin's Creed ShadowsLearn how to complete The Puppet Show quest in Assassin's CreedShadows. Our guide covers finding the quest, infiltrating thestronghold, and eliminating your target with tips for stealth or combat.
How to complete A Shinobi on Awaji quest in Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of Awajithe A Shinobi on Awaji quest in Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of Awaji with our step-by-step guide. Unlock secrets
How to complete The Reunion quest in Assassin's Creed Shadows Claws of Awaji The Reunion quest in Assassin's Creed Shadows: Claws of Awaji with our step-by-step. Unlock secrets and enhance your gameplay!
How to complete Prison Break quest in Assassin's Creed ShadowsStuck liberatingNaoe's ally? Our guide breaks down how to complete the Prison Breakquest in Assassin's Creed Shadows, including stealth tips and combatstrategies.
How to complete Not Alone in this World quest in Assassin's Creed ShadowsAssassin's Creed Shadows: Not Alone in This World quest guide.Find out how to start the mission, solve its puzzles, defeat theenemies, and claim your reward to expand your network of allies.
How to complete Way of the Bo quest in Assassin's Creed Shadowsthe secrets of the Assassin's Creed Shadows: Way of the Bo quest.Uncover strategies, tips, and lore to enhance your gaming
How to complete A Long Lost Key quest in Assassin's Creed ShadowsExplore the captivating Assassin's Creed Shadows: A Long Lost Key quest. Join the journey to unlock secrets and elevate your gameplay
How to complete The Regalia quest in Assassin's Creed ShadowsStuck on The Regalia in Assassin's Creed Shadows? Our guideprovides a complete walkthrough to help you find the hidden key andclaim the legendary katana, the Uchigatana of the West.
How to Get a Pet in 33 ImmortalsDiscover the ultimate guide on how to get a pet in 33 Immortals. Unlock tips and strategies to enhance your gameplay experience!
Should You Let Mitsumune Kill Captured Soldiers in Assassin's Creed Shadowsthe moral dilemma in AC Shadows as Mitsumune faces the choice to kill captured soldiers.
All Kuji Kiri Locations in Assassin's Creed ShadowsDiscover all Kuji Kiri locations in AC Shadows. Uncover secrets
How To Earn Max Money with Rooms in Ale & Tale Tavern Discover Ale & Tale Tavern! Maximize your earnings with our exclusive rooms.
Where to Find All Fish in Monster Hunter WildsDiscover the ultimate guide to finding all fish in Monster Hunter Wilds. Unlock secrets