Commerce has always been a driving force behind progress, and this remains true in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. However, not everyone plays by the rules. If you're eager to uncover the locations of all Iron Hand Guild members in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, this comprehensive guide is your ultimate resource.
The Iron Hand in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Explained
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
The Iron Hand questline becomes available after Naoe learns the intricacies of the tea ceremony from Imai Sokun, a businessman with a reputable standing in Settsu. As you progress, you'll reconnect with Imai Sokun, who will express concerns about someone impersonating House Imai to conduct illicit business.
Your mission is to root out this secret merchant syndicate attempting to overthrow the legitimate House Imai. There are five different merchants to track down, each overseeing various aspects of the business. Depending on your approach, you can choose non-lethal or lethal methods to deal with them.
Related: How to Play the Assassin’s Creed Games in Order
How and Where To Find All Iron Hand Guild Members in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
As one of the earlier objectives in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you'll need to explore the world and uncover key locations, using the provided clues to pinpoint each target's whereabouts. This guide eliminates the guesswork, providing precise locations and strategies.
Merchant Tamao
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Tamao, a dealer in contraband, is not discreet about his activities. Bypass the intel-gathering phase and head directly to the Yamashiro region. Find Kyoto, the sprawling city in the center, and locate Honpoji Temple on the east side. Head west from there to find Merchant Tamao hiding in his brewery. Listen to the staff's chatter to learn he's refusing to come out. Draw him out by smashing all the barrels in the courtyard, and be ready for a confrontation.
Merchant Kanta
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
As you delve deeper into the Iron Hand syndicate, you'll find that not all merchants are willingly involved. Merchant Kanta is one such case, located at the Mouth of Seta in the Omi region. You can choose to attack him or use the Observe mechanic to gather vital intel, revealing that Kanta is being coerced. Sparing his life allows him to become a captain in Imai Sokun's merchant fleet.
Merchant Ginroku
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Ginroku deals in rare delicacies for the wealthiest families around Miyazu Bay. Head to the Tamba region, specifically southwest of Miyazu Castle across the bridge. You can either eliminate him for his involvement with the Iron Hand or search nearby huts for an important letter that can spare his life, allowing him to work with the real House Imai and access more affluent clients at Sakai Port.
Merchant Kin-no-suke
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
Kin-no-suke's ostentatious displays of wealth raise suspicions, especially since he hires bandits to steal for his business. You'll find him east of the Trading Port in the city of Obama, Wakasa. Surrounded by bodyguards, use tactics like smoke bombs and assassinations to neutralize the threat and deal with Kin-no-suke.
Iron Hand
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Finally, you'll confront the head of the syndicate, the Iron Hand, located in the highly secure Fukuchiyama Castle in Tamba. Prepare for a challenging battle. Approach the castle from the south side of the walls to locate the Iron Hand. It's advisable to take out guards stealthily before engaging him directly. Once defeated, return to Imai Sokun to claim your rewards.
That concludes your guide to finding all the Iron Hand Guild members in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. For more assistance with the game, be sure to check out The Escapist.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.*