TL;DR
- Three Cat Sanctuaries are scattered across Iki Island, each requiring flute interaction
- Completing sanctuaries grants the Charm of Nekoma’s Hunt with kunai throwing capabilities
- The northern sanctuary requires clearing Mongol camps and rescuing captive cats first
- Each completed sanctuary increases kunai throwing range for chain assassinations
- Strategic completion order can maximize stealth gameplay benefits early
Discovering all Cat Sanctuary locations represents one of the most rewarding side activities within Ghost of Tsushima’s Iki Island expansion, available across both PS4 and PS5 platforms. These peaceful havens provide sanctuary for the island’s feline population while offering tangible gameplay benefits for dedicated explorers.
The Iki Island expansion introduces this unique side-activity where players can establish protected zones for local cats through an engaging flute mini-game. As Jin Sakai, you’ll use your flute to summon cats to these designated areas, creating tranquil spots where you can interact with and pet the feline residents repeatedly. This guide provides comprehensive directions to locate every sanctuary efficiently.
Successfully establishing your initial Cat Sanctuary rewards you with the powerful Charm of Nekoma’s Hunt. This exceptional stealth charm enables kunai throws against distant targets during Chain Assassination sequences, effectively allowing elimination of three targets simultaneously even when they’re positioned apart. The effective throwing distance for kunai progressively expands with each additional sanctuary you complete throughout the island.
For additional insights about Ghost of Tsushima’s Iki Island expansion, consider reading our detailed analysis. Alternatively, explore our comprehensive Iki Island guides collection and our extensive base game strategy compendium.
The initial Cat Sanctuary most players encounter sits positioned east of Old Gambler’s Wood, easily visible atop a prominent hill just before reaching the area’s central river. This location serves as an excellent introduction to the sanctuary mechanics without requiring combat preparation.
Your second feline sanctuary discovery awaits west of Zasho River adjacent to Yahata Forest, situated along the riverbank near a picturesque small waterfall. The ambient sound of falling water often helps mask your approach to this location.
The final Cat Sanctuary occupies the northeastern extremity of Iki Island, positioned just north of Barrier Cove. Regrettably, Mongol forces have established an encampment in this vicinity and, more distressingly, captured multiple cats. You must eliminate the Mongol presence and free the imprisoned felines from their confinement before establishing this ultimate sanctuary.
Mastering the flute mini-game requires understanding the rhythmic patterns specific to each sanctuary location. The tempo varies slightly between sites, so pay close attention to the visual cues and adjust your timing accordingly for optimal results.
Common exploration mistakes include rushing through the sanctuary activation process without proper environmental scanning. Always survey the surrounding area for Mongol patrols before beginning the flute sequence, as interruptions can reset your progress. Advanced players should prioritize completing at least one sanctuary early to gain the kunai extension benefit for subsequent stealth encounters.
For the northern sanctuary requiring combat, approach during daylight hours when visibility is optimal. Utilize your ghost weapons strategically to dispatch Mongol guards efficiently before they can alert reinforcements. The rescued cats will remain in the area until you complete the sanctuary establishment.
Time investment for locating all three sanctuaries typically ranges between 45-60 minutes, depending on your familiarity with Iki Island’s geography and current progression in the main storyline.
Action Checklist
- Acquire flute and learn basic melody controls from early game tutorials
- Navigate to eastern Old Gambler’s Wood location and complete first sanctuary
- Travel to western Zasho River area and establish second sanctuary
- Prepare combat loadout and clear Mongol camp at northern Barrier Cove
- Rescue captive cats and complete final sanctuary establishment
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Ghost Of Tsushima Iki Island Expansion Guide – Cat Sanctuary Locations Complete guide to finding all Cat Sanctuaries in Ghost of Tsushima's Iki Island expansion with strategic tips