The Abandoned Dungeon in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice serves as a dark subterranean bridge connecting Ashina Castle to Senpou Temple and Mount Kongo. Within this eerie network of tunnels, players encounter unique side quests, unsettling NPCs, and terrifying supernatural threats. Understanding how to navigate this zone efficiently while managing questlines like Doujun's research is essential for a successful playthrough.
How to Access the Abandoned Dungeon Entrance
Reaching the Abandoned Dungeon is relatively straightforward once you gain access to the grounds of Ashina Castle. From the Ashina Castle Sculptor's Idol, head across the bridge to the left and grapple past the gate where two guards reside. Following the path past the moat and through the dark cavern leads directly to the Underground Waterway idol.
Alternatively, players can enter the dungeon from the Bottomless Hole near Ashina Reservoir. Descending into this pit requires caution, as it places Wolf near the chilling encounter with the Shichimen Warrior. Choosing the Underground Waterway path provides a safer initial entry point for exploration.
Understanding the Quest to Lure an NPC
Outside the Abandoned Dungeon entrance, you will meet Doujun, a sinister surgeon conducting unnatural experiments for his master, Dosaku. He requests that Wolf bring him a strong, healthy man to serve as a test subject for his bloody research. Completing this task requires luring one of two specific NPCs into the dungeon's depths.
Players can choose to target Jinzaemon Kumano, the samurai mesmerized by shamisen music near Ashina Reservoir, or Kotaro, the gentle giant weeping near Senpou Temple. To lure either character, you must progress their individual dialogues until an option appears to suggest Doujun's Abandoned Dungeon as a destination.
Consequences of Luring Characters to Doujun
Luring either NPC to Doujun yields immediate rewards, including Red Lumps, but permanently alters their fates in a grim manner. The chosen character will undergo brutal experimentation, eventually becoming a red-eyed, aggressive enemy trapped in the dungeon's waterways. Defeating these transformed versions later rewards unique upgrade materials and items.
If you prefer a more moral outcome, you can direct Kotaro to Anayama the Peddler instead or send him to the Hall of Illusions using the White Pinwheel. Choosing not to lure anyone preserves their side stories, though it locks you out of Doujun's full experiment storyline rewards.
Essential Exploration Tips for the Dungeon
The Abandoned Dungeon is filled with rot-infested enemies, crickets, and terrifying Apparition-type foes. Navigating the dark tunnels requires careful movement, as swarm enemies can easily overwhelm Wolf if drawn together. Utilizing Pacifying Agent or the Phoenix's Lilac Umbrella is highly recommended when facing spectral threats like the Shichimen Warrior.
Always check the water channels thoroughly for hidden items, as valuable prayer beads and upgrade materials rest in submerged chests. Equipping the Mibu Breathing Technique allows Wolf to dive underwater, uncovering secrets buried beneath the surface of the murky subterranean pools.
