Ghost of Tsushima’s Iki Island DLC was well-received by players and critics alike. By building on the main game in meaningful ways both narratively and in gameplay elements, the new chapter in Tsushima’s history is a welcome addition. 

Jin was more than friendly to the local fauna back on Tsushima, and on Iki, he explores his gentler side by visiting Animal Sanctuaries. Spread throughout the island, there are a total of nine sanctuaries for Jin to discover, and they offer up some incredible perks in return. 

Making New Friends on Another Island

Completing an Animal Sanctuary requires more than just visiting it and having a look around. Jin must earn the trust of the local fauna by playing them a song on his trusty flute. Interacting with a floor mat once you are at the sanctuary begins a mini-game in which you tilt your controller to the tune of Jin’s flute.

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As the tune goes on, one of the animals at the sanctuary becomes increasingly curious, finally coming up to Jin and allowing him to pet them, earning you completion for that Sanctuary. 

With three Sanctuaries each for cats, deer, and monkeys and some unique Charms for Jin as completion rewards, it’s time to get started.

All Animal Sanctuary Locations in Ghost of Tsushima (& How to Complete Them)

Depending on your playstyle, you may choose to tackle Sanctuaries specific to an animal to collect and level up the Charm associated with it. With the whole island open to Jin, Animal Sanctuaries can be tackled in any order.

Just remember that successive Sanctuaries for each animal serve to level up the Charm associated with it, for a total of two levels after Jin first collects them. 

Cat Sanctuaries

You will earn the Charm of Nekoma’s Hunt, which allows you to use your kunai for chain assassinations up to a distance of 25 meters on its highest level.

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The first Sanctuary for Jin to find is at Thunderhead Cliffs. It can be found in the northeastern section of Iki. A few Mongols with hawks will be between you, Jin, and its entrance. Take them out and head inside to find and interact with the mat to begin the activity.

The next Sanctuary to find is in the Flower Field, found on the west bank of the Zasho River. A Mongol Shaman and some dogs will attack Jin when he interacts with the mat. Take them out and proceed with the activity to level up your new Charm.

Next, head on over to the Kidafure Battleground, where the Sanctuary is once again found on the western bank of the river, east of Old Gambler’s Wood. A few Mongols may patrol the area, but the new Charm in your possession should let you deal with them silently. Complete the activity to achieve its final upgrade. 

Monkey Sanctuaries

While the Cat Sanctuaries focused on stealth, the Monkey Sanctuaries brought a new edge to combat. The Charm of Mashira’s Protection grants Jin improved parry and dodge windows on every heal, making it an invaluable addition to his arsenal. 

The first Sanctuary for monkeys is at the Raider’s Promontory. It is on the northern coast of Iki, requiring Jin to free it from Mongol control before he can interact with the mat and begin playing his somber tunes for the local fauna. You may need to free monkeys from cages before you get started if they are not already free. 

Next, head on over to the Saruiwa Overlook to find it overrun by Mongols. Free it from their grasp and find the Sanctuary to the west of Buddha’s Footprints. Once again, pay special attention to your surroundings and free any caged monkeys you come across. 

Finally, Saruiwa Mountain hosts the final Monkey Sanctuary, requiring a challenging climb and a lot of platforming to get there. Find it in the southwestern portion of Iki Island. 

Deer Sanctuaries

If you prefer that Jin let his bows do the talking with Mongols, the Charm of Sugaru’s Sight is for you, allowing you to fire up to three arrows together and automatically aim at an enemy’s head when using the bow.

The first Sanctuary you can visit is at Sly Hunter’s Forest, where a nearby Mongol camp must be taken out before Jin can interact with the mat and play his songs for the deer.

Next, head on over to the Shattered Cliffs. You are searching for a cliff’s edge just south of Fune’s Refuge. 

Finally, the very last Sanctuary you can find on Iki Island is at the Zasho River Crossing, which has been repurposed into a Mongol stronghold. But with your new Charms at your disposal, driving out the invaders can be easier than you think. 

Honor the Sanctuary once they are gone to complete the activity and level up your final Charm to its maximum potential.

With these Charms in your possession, Jin is one step closer to driving the Mongols away from his home. Perhaps you missed a few on the main island of Tsushima? Whatever you are looking for, our Ghost of Tsushima guides are sure to have you covered.