The Six Blades of Kojiro stands out as one of the most compelling Mythic Tales in Ghost of Tsushima, challenging players to engage in a series of intense lethal duels. To unlock the ultimate reward of this questline, you must track down five skilled Straw Hat assassins across the Toyotama region before confronting the legendary swordsman himself. Success requires not only sharp combat reflexes but also a clear understanding of where each dangerous encounter takes place.
Initiating the Hunt in Toyotama
To begin this legendary quest, you must reach Act 2 and make your way to the secluded village of Umugi Cove. Located along the southwestern coastline, you will find a talented musician named Yamato waiting on the back deck of a busy local tavern. Speaking with him will reveal the dark history of the assassins and officially mark their general dueling locations on your map.
Before venturing out, it is highly recommended to fully replenish your resolve meters by completing nearby activities or defeat roaming Mongol squads. Each encounter acts as a strict test of your defensive capabilities and timing. Being fully prepared ensures you can heal or unleash special strikes during critical moments in the upcoming sword fights.
Tracking the First Three Assassins
Your journey begins with Yasumasa, who awaits your challenge at the Duel in the Drowning Marsh located just south of the Old Kanazawa Marsh. The swampy terrain can make movement feel sluggish, meaning you must rely heavily on precise parries rather than constant dodging. Watch his stance closely, as his standard strikes are highly aggressive but leave him open if timed correctly.
Following this victory, travel north to the vibrant Field of the Equinox Flower to confront Hirotsune at the Duel Among the Spider Lilies. This battlefield is visually distinct, covered in striking red blossoms that heighten the dramatic tension of the fight. Keep a safe distance to observe his attack strings, then strike immediately after he finishes his combos.
The third combatant, Kiyochika, can be found waiting under a rushing waterfall along the scenic Musashi Coast. The crashing water adds an intense atmosphere, requiring focus to read his quick slashes. Defeating him demands patience and a solid understanding of basic combat mechanics to deflect his incoming blows.
Defeating the Remaining Straw Hats
The final two initial assassins are positioned near separate natural landmarks that showcase the varied geography of the island. You will face Tomotsugu on the open sandy shore situated directly below the Cloud Ridge Shrine. The wide battlefield gives you more room to maneuver, allowing you to bait out his heavy strikes and counter effectively.
Lastly, head east of Yamabushi Peak to find Kanetomo waiting in a quiet, isolated clearing for your arrival. He utilizes a deceptive pacing that can easily catch overextended players off guard if they rush in blindly. Focus on building up your defensive rhythm and exploit the brief openings following his unblockable attacks.
Confronting Kojiro at the Monastery
After all five initial swordsmen have been defeated, you must return to Umugi Cove to speak with Yamato once again for your final instructions. The musician will reveal that Kojiro himself is waiting for a decisive showdown in a hidden sanctuary near Omi Monastery. Travel to the far northwestern section of the region and follow the guiding wind past the large red tree near the waterfalls.
Inside the Mirror of Sacred Light cave, you will engage in the final and most difficult duel of the entire questline. Kojiro is exceptionally aggressive, forcing you to constantly dodge unblockable strikes and execute perfect counterattacks. Overcoming this legendary warrior rewards you with the highly coveted Kensei Armor, completing your weapon and armor collection journey.
