Commerce has always been a driving force behind progress, and this remains true in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. Yet, not all transactions in the game's world are above board. If you're keen on uncovering the whereabouts and methods to locate all Iron Hand Guild members in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, this comprehensive guide will serve as your starting point.
The Iron Hand in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Explained
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
The Iron Hand questline becomes accessible after Naoe masters the tea ceremony under the guidance of Imai Sokun, a respected businessman in Settsu. Later, you'll reconnect with him as he voices concerns about imposters undermining House Imai through illicit trade. Your mission is to dismantle this covert merchant syndicate challenging the legitimate House Imai. You'll encounter five merchants, each responsible for different business sectors, offering you choices between non-lethal and lethal approaches.
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 initial objective boards in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, the task involves exploring the game's world to discover key locations and utilizing provided clues to pinpoint your targets. This guide eliminates the guesswork, streamlining your quest.
Merchant Tamao
Assassin’s Creed® Shadows_20250311162156
Tamao, a dealer in contraband, is far from discreet. Bypass the intel-gathering phase and head directly to the Yamashiro region. Navigate to Kyoto, the bustling city at its center, and locate Honpoji Temple on the east side. From there, proceed west to find Merchant Tamao concealed within his brewery. Engage with the staff to learn of his reluctance to emerge. Lure him out by smashing the barrels in the courtyard. Once he appears, confront him and proceed to your next target.
Merchant Kanta
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
Deeper into the Iron Hand storyline, you'll find that not all merchants are willingly involved with the syndicate. Merchant Kanta, located in the Mouth of Seta in the Omi region, is a prime example. You have the option to attack or use the Observe mechanic to uncover evidence that Kanta is coerced into his role. Spare his life, and he will transition into a captain in Imai Sokun’s merchant fleet.
Merchant Ginroku
Assassin’s Creed® Shadows_20250316222104
Ginroku specializes in selling rare delicacies to the wealthiest families around Miyazu Bay. Head west to the Tamba region to find Miyazu Bay. His location is just southwest of Miyazu Castle, across the bridge. Here, you can choose to eliminate him for his involvement with the Iron Hand or find an important letter in nearby huts that could spare his life. If spared, he'll work with the real House Imai, gaining access to more affluent clients in Sakai Port.
Merchant Kin-no-suke
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
Kin-no-suke's ostentatious displays of wealth raise suspicions, compounded by his use of bandits to bolster his business. This prompts an investigation by Naoe and Yasuke. Travel to the city of Obama in Wakasa, just east of the Trading Port, to confront him. Surrounded by bodyguards, you'll need to dispatch them first. A strategic use of smoke bombs and assassinations can swiftly bring him down.
Iron Hand
Assassin’s Creed® Shadows_20250316230631
The quest culminates with the location of the syndicate's mastermind, the Iron Hand. He is entrenched in a heavily guarded area, requiring thorough preparation for the ensuing battle. Head to Tamba, specifically Fukuchiyama Castle, near the region's center. Approach from the south side of the castle walls to find him. Expect fierce resistance from the Iron Hand and his guards. It's advisable to eliminate the guards discreetly before confronting him. After defeating the Iron Hand, return to Imai Sokun to claim your rewards.
That concludes the guide on locating all the Iron Hand Guild members in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. For additional assistance, explore resources available at The Escapist.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.*
