Exploring the expansive island landscape of Ghost of Tsushima rewards players with scenic vistas, unique encounters, and various customization options for Jin Sakai. Among the most rewarding collectible structures found in the open world are the Pillars of Honor, stone monuments built to honor fallen warriors. Finding these points of interest grants players unique sword kits to change the cosmetic appearance of their katana and tanto blades.
Understanding the Significance of the Monuments
Each monument serves as a historical point of interest scattered across the main regions of Izuhara, Toyotama, and Kamiagata. Approaching a stone setup allows Jin to claim a forgotten aesthetic shell left behind by legendary samurai of the past. These vanity items do not alter your base combat statistics but offer dramatic visual variations for your primary weapons.
Tracking down these locations is an excellent objective for completionists who want to fully customize their warrior persona. While exploring the wilderness, sword kits can be spotted from a distance by looking for large rock pillars decorated with colorful banners. Seeking out these specific locations encourages thorough navigation of the game's beautifully rendered coastal cliffs and hidden valleys.
Strategic Exploration Methods in Izuhara
The first act of the narrative takes place entirely within the southern region known as Izuhara, which hosts numerous hidden structures. Players should focus on navigating toward cliff edges and isolated peninsulas where these monuments are traditionally situated. Utilizing the Guiding Wind feature from your map screen helps steer Jin toward the closest undiscovered vanity reward.
Notable early locations include the scenic overlooks near Azamo and the quiet bamboo forests hidden within the Komatsu prefecture. Taking the time to clear the surrounding Mongol territories can safely clear up the fog of war across your world map. This systematic approach reveals the precise question marks that frequently pinpoint these hidden cultural landmarks.
Navigating the Swamps and Snow of Late Game Regions
As the campaign moves northward into Toyotama, the environmental architecture shifts toward deep marshes and dense fields. Pillars in this second region are frequently located on tiny islands surrounded by deep water or positioned near historic battlegrounds. Exploring these treacherous areas requires careful horse navigation and a sharp eye for elevated land structures.
The final frozen expanses of Kamiagata hide the remaining stone locations behind blinding blizzards and jagged mountain ranges. Players must look for contrasts in the snowy landscape, such as the distinct dark silhouette of stone structures against white peaks. Finding these final pieces completes your full collection and maximizes your visual choices before the final confrontation.