What to know
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Found deep within a late-game region, accessible after completing an important side quest.
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Requires specific Guardian Spirit synergy to activate its location.
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Involves defeating a tough yokai boss in a corrupted shrine.
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Grants a high-strength buff and Ki recovery speed boost once bonded.
The Vigorous Spirit in Nioh 3 is a hidden Guardian Spirit tied to both story progression and exploration mastery. Unlocking it isn’t straightforward—you need the right prerequisites, the correct region unlocked, and the willingness to face a formidable challenge. This guide covers its location, the steps to unlock it, and what rewards you’ll gain once it’s yours.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Guardian Spirit name | Vigorous Spirit |
| Region | Izumo (Spiritbound Mountains) |
| Requirement | Complete the “Flames of Resolve” side mission |
| Boss | Corrupted Enenra |
| Elemental affinity | Fire & Earth |
| Recommended level | 125+ |
| Reward | Ki recovery +15%, increased melee damage with full health, Guardian Spirit protection aura |
Location
You’ll find the Vigorous Spirit in the Spiritbound Mountains, in the Izumo region.
The area is filled with narrow pathways, lava flows, and corrupted shrines guarded by elemental yokai. The shrine where the spirit resides becomes accessible only after clearing certain main missions in this region.
How to unlock Vigorous Spirit in Nioh 3
Step 1: Complete the side mission Flames of Resolve
Finish the side mission called Flames of Resolve to open access to the Spiritbound Mountains. This mission involves escorting a warrior through burning fortifications and surviving waves of fire-based yokai. Completing it removes the spiritual seal blocking the shrine entrance.
Step 2: Equip a compatible Guardian Spirit
Before entering, equip a Guardian Spirit with either Fire or Earth affinity—this helps resonate with the corrupted energy in the shrine. Favor the Fire Wolf or Stone Ox spirits for better synergy. Without the elemental balance, the shrine door stays locked even if the mission is complete.
Step 3: Locate the corrupted shrine
From the starting point in Spiritbound Mountains, head through the path with molten cracks until you reach a large torii gate surrounded by burning corpses. Behind it, you’ll find a sealed crimson shrine. Interact with the shrine while in Yokai form to trigger a boss encounter.
Step 4: Defeat the corrupted Enenra
The corrupted Enenra is a stronger variant of the earlier boss. It uses enhanced flame tornadoes and explosive stomps. Focus on dodging sideways after every triple-spin attack, and use Water or Wind talismans to deal effective damage. Once defeated, it will emit a glowing spirit orb.
Step 5: Purify and claim the Vigorous Spirit
After the battle, interact with the orb and choose to purify it using your Guardian Spirit’s energy. A short animation will trigger, unlocking the Vigorous Spirit permanently in your Guardian Spirit list.
Vigorous Spirit rewards
| Reward type | Description |
|---|---|
| Guardian Spirit unlock | Vigorous Spirit added permanently to your collection |
| Passive ability | Ki recovery speed +15% |
| Active skill | Increases melee damage while at full health |
| Guardian Spirit protection | Generates a temporary aura that boosts defense during critical HP |
| Synergy bonus | Additional buff when paired with Earth- or Fire-element weapons |
Tips for the encounter
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Prepare resistance charms against Fire damage before entering.
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Keep ranged weapons ready to stagger Enenra when it charges tornado attacks.
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Activate your Living Weapon form only when Enenra’s HP drops below 30% for a finishing edge.
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Use medium armor for mobility since heavy gear slows evasive moves during flame bursts.
The Vigorous Spirit is more than just a power boost—it’s a statement of mastery. Once bonded, it makes mobility smoother, Ki regeneration rapid, and melee combat more efficient. Whether you prefer an aggressive or balanced playstyle, this spirit enhances your overall combat rhythm, especially during extended yokai hunts.
