The Way of the Odachi is a sensei tale in Ghost of Yotei, serving as both a combat tutorial and a dramatic story mission centered on mastering the Odachi — a long, heavy blade built for precision and power. The quest introduces the Odachi’s unique mechanics, including slow but devastating swings and a defensive stance that can absorb and counter enemy attacks.

Step-by-step guide for The Way of the Odachi

Step 1
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Travel to Horosaru Falls and find Master Yoshida’s Dojo, located north of the falls and reachable via the northwest trails from Clain Saiyo Fortress. Speak with Yoshida on the bridge to begin the tale.

Step 2
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Follow Yoshida into the dojo and equip the Odachi from the weapon rack. This marks the start of the training session and allows you to familiarize yourself with the weapon’s slower, heavier rhythm.

Step 3
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Complete Yoshida’s training drills. Once training concludes, a cutscene triggers as Saito’s men attack. Defend the dojo by prioritizing heavy foes first. Use the Odachi’s charged attacks on armored enemies, and switch to the Katana for faster duels against agile swordsmen.

Step 4
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After clearing the courtyard, follow Yoshida uphill through the rear gate of the dojo. Climb the ledges and cross the narrow wooden platform spanning the waterfall. Prepare for a sequence of uphill battles.

Step 5
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At the first ridge camp, eliminate musketeers with your bow before moving in. Once ranged threats are down, engage the melee soldiers. Quick weapon swapping keeps the momentum in your favor.

Step 6
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Continue up the slope to find a Bo-Hiya Gunner positioned on high ground. Either snipe him with a precise headshot or climb to his platform and finish him with Odachi heavy strikes. Loot the yellow chest nearby for supplies.

Step 7
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Use the Odachi to break the wooden barricade ahead by performing a heavy attack when prompted. This clears the next path up the mountain.

Step 8
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When Yoshida pauses mid-ascent, he teaches you the Bulwark Stance — hold your attack button to block damage, then release to deliver a strong counterattack. Use this stance to handle groups of enemies efficiently.

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Step 9
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Traverse the waterfall ledges while dodging thrown firepots. Keep moving to avoid blast damage and maintain footing on the narrow terrain.

Step 10
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Reach the final Saito camp at the cliff’s summit. Target the remaining Bo-Hiya Gunners first, then dispatch swordsmen and brutes using a balance of quick Katana strikes and powerful Odachi blows.

Step 11
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When the final enemy falls, a cutscene plays showing Yoshida acknowledging your progress. Completing the tale grants the Odachi weapon permanently, along with the Way of the Odachi achievement.

Mission rewards and what comes next

Finishing this mission cements mastery of the Odachi sword and unlocks it for all future combat.

The weapon becomes a central part of Atsu’s evolving combat style, encouraging a deliberate, strength-based approach to battle. After completing the tale, new quests involving the Saito Brothers and the Yotei Six become available in Chapter Two, continuing your growth under Yoshida’s influence.