Let's be real, no AC game is complete without some epic assassinations, and in Assassin's Creed: Shadows, the Hunters of Kyonyo quest is seriously one of the most engaging side missions I've played in 2026. Sure, the game has its grind moments, but this quest? Absolute game-changer that makes leveling up feel like an actual adventure rather than a chore. I recently spent hours figuring out all the moving parts, and let me tell you—it's worth every minute for the XP and gear alone. The immersion level is through the roof!
How To Unlock Hunters Of Kyonyo 🔓
So, getting this quest started is a bit... cryptic. From my playthrough, it seems to unlock around Act Three when you reach Negoroji in northern Kii. Once you're in town, head straight to the Fudo-do Temple in the eastern part of Negoroji—just past the Monk Quarters. You can't miss it!
When you arrive, you'll meet Kennyo standing near a bell. He'll spill the tea about bounty hunters threatening the region and his son being in danger. Your mission? Slay five bounty hunters across Kii province. Sounds simple, right? Well, finding them is the real challenge. The game doesn't just hand you their locations—you gotta work for it, which honestly makes it more rewarding.
All Hunters Of Kyonyo Locations 🗺️
Here's where things get interesting. Some targets require finding letters, others need investigations. It's like being a detective in feudal Japan, and I'm here for it.
1. Inumaru: The Ambusher 🏹
After talking to Kennyo, check the Objective Board. You'll need to investigate central Kii. Head to southeast Koyasan and west of Sazae Oni Shores. You'll find a Ronin there—beat him, and he drops a letter pointing you to Yakushi Onsen (east of Nakahechi Route). Inumaru roams alone during the day, making him an easy target for a stealth kill.
2. Kamakichi: The Spy 🕵️♂️
Go to western Kii in Saika and find a house in the northeastern part of town. Inside, collect 3 items:
-
First item: on the table left of the main door
-
Other two: on the bed mats directly in front of the door
Once collected, Kamakichi's location reveals itself. He moves based on time:
-
Night: South of Saika Castle in Monk Houses
-
Day: North of Monk Houses in the market
After defeating him, go to the southwest corner of Saika Temple Grounds (behind Saika Castle), find a hole, jump down, and you'll meet Kyonyo, Kennyo's son. Grab the nearby letters to reveal the next two targets.
3. Shishi-o: The Interrogator 🗣️
Head to southeastern Kii in Kumano Sanzan, then go south to Kumano Nachi Taisha Temple. The Interrogator is behind this temple—follow the stairs in the back right corner. He'll be interrogating NPCs, so time your strike carefully.
4. The Shinobi: Toro 🌙
Important: This part only triggers at night. Head to Koyasan in Kii (northern section), find the Ornament Vendor south of Kongobuji Temple. From there, go south past the market to find a guard overlooking a body. Talk to him, then head to Monks' District (west of your location).
Talk to the monk outside the temple, follow him inside, and set up an ambush by extinguishing 4 light sources in one house. The Shinobi will appear—he's sneaky, so you better be stealthy too!
After defeating him, go to the southwestern part of Iseji Trails (west of Kii). Kyonyo will be at a camp at the southern tip. Interact with him, and you'll learn the bounty hunter leader kidnapped his father to a nearby fort.
5. Tsuchi-Gumo: Bounty Leader ⚔️
Time for the grand finale! The fort is northwest of Kyonyo's camp—Akagi Fort. When you arrive, Kyonyo will be there, and you'll get dialogue options:
| Option | What Happens | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| I'm going alone | Solo infiltration | Hard AF 😅 |
| Let's go together | Kyonyo's men attack first wave | Much easier |
I recommend option two unless you're a masochist. The fort is crawling with guards! Kyonyo's distraction lets you sneak in. Head to the upper middle section with the tower—that's where the leader is.
Defeat him, exit the fort, and you'll find Kyonyo and Kennyo reunited outside the entrance. Quest complete! 🎉
My Pro Tips & Thoughts 💭
-
Timing is everything – Pay attention to day/night cycles for certain targets
-
Stealth over strength – This quest rewards patience and planning
-
Explore thoroughly – Those investigation spots are easy to miss
-
Gear up – Make sure you're properly leveled before taking on the fort
Honestly, this quest embodies what makes AC: Shadows so special in 2026. It's not just mindless killing—it's storytelling through gameplay. The father-son dynamic, the investigative elements, the final showdown... chef's kiss! The rewards are totally worth the effort, and it breaks up the grind perfectly.
Have you tried this quest yet? What was your experience like? Drop your thoughts below! 👇 And remember: Nothing is true, everything is permitted... but seriously, follow this guide if you get stuck. Trust me, it's a lifesaver!