Katano Castle is one of the earliest major enemy strongholds you’ll encounter while exploring Feudal Japan in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This expansive fortress offers enticing rewards, but you’ll need to complete specific tasks to unlock them.
Here’s a guide on how to conquer Katano Castle and what treasures await you.
How to Conquer Katano Castle in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Katano Castle is situated on the eastern edge of Izumi Settsu. You can reach it by heading northeast from your Hideout or traveling north from Osaka, Saki, and the Izumi Coast. A convenient fast travel point can be found atop the main castle structure in the fortress’s southwestern area.
To gain entry into Katano Castle, you have a couple of options: defeat the guards stationed on one of the few bridges or explore alternative routes. A particularly effective method is to move around the fortress until you find a large tree branch that offers a way to climb up and leap into the area, bypassing the tall walls and guards.
Once inside Katano Castle, your first priority should be to ascend to the main castle and unlock the fast travel point. This not only allows you to save your progress but also gives you a layout of the fortress. Familiarizing yourself with the structure is crucial, as you must locate two specific enemies to fully conquer Katano Castle.
These enemies are known as “Samurai Daisho,” identifiable by the unique warrior mask icon above them. Within Katano Castle, they are level six and possess a two-tiered white health bar alongside a yellow armor health bar, meaning they require significant damage to defeat.
To obtain the loot from Katano Castle, you must eliminate the Samurai Daisho. There are two such enemies within the fortress, each located at different spots across the grounds.
These foes are mobile, making their locations unpredictable. I found one Samurai Daisho patrolling a northern courtyard and the other situated on the southeastern edge, to the left of the main castle on your map.
To track down the Samurai Daisho, utilize the Eagle Vision or “Observe” mechanic. This feature activates an infra-red view, allowing you to see enemies highlighted in red on your HUD while lootable items appear as white or gold dots. Keep in mind that Eagle Vision only reveals nearby red-outlined enemies, so explore various parts of Katano Castle until you spot both Samurai Daisho.
When it comes to eliminating them, I recommend using stealth for an assassination attempt. However, you may only be able to inflict damage initially. Once their health is lowered, prepare for a traditional fight. It’s best to engage them in areas with fewer guards to simplify the battle.
After defeating both Samurai Daisho in Katano Castle, you can collect your rewards.
Rewards from Katano Castle in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Upon conquering Katano Castle, you can earn a couple of primary rewards, accessible via a chest that unlocks only after both Samurai Daisho are defeated.
Additionally, numerous hidden rewards are scattered throughout the castle grounds. You can loot several chests, gather Hideout materials, and even sneak resources past enemies. Smuggling these materials contributes to the “Smuggler’s Run” side quest in Assassin’s Creed Shadows and requires an available Scout. These resources are often found in locked structures on the castle grounds, necessitating nearby keys for access.
I strongly recommend dedicating time to collect all the valuable rewards throughout Katano Castle, as they significantly benefit your progression. This includes accumulating gold (Mon), resources, gear, and more.
For the most substantial rewards, journey to the top of the main castle. There, you’ll discover an access board to descend. Inside this chamber, you can unlock a chest that becomes available only after defeating the Samurai Daisho.
Inside the chest, you’ll discover the level five Tools Master Gear—which is legendary light armor—and the Kunai Throw on Assassinate Engraving. Both items are of legendary rarity and make excellent starting gear for Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Upon looting this specific chest, you can continue down the main stairs of the castle to uncover numerous additional rewards. However, once the chest is claimed, Katano Castle will be marked as completed in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
You can then proceed to another castle or location, or engage in main story missions to utilize your new gear effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions about Katano Castle in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
What is the location of Katano Castle in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Katano Castle is located on the eastern side of Izumi Settsu, northeast of your Hideout and accessible via routes from Osaka and Saki.
How do I defeat the Samurai Daisho in Katano Castle?
Utilize Eagle Vision to locate them, then approach stealthily for an assassination attempt. If that fails, engage them in combat while ensuring you’re away from additional guards.
What rewards can I collect from conquering Katano Castle?
You can unlock legendary gear, including the Tools Master Gear and the Kunai Throw on Assassinate Engraving, along with various loot and resources scattered around the castle.
Is there a fast travel point in Katano Castle?
Yes, once you reach the main castle and unlock the fast travel point on top, you can easily return to Katano Castle later if needed.
What should I do after completing Katano Castle?
After completing Katano Castle, you can explore other castles or focus on completing main story missions using your newly acquired gear and resources.