Complete the Shrine Vault Puzzle in Silent Hill f: A Comprehensive Guide

In Silent Hill f, players will frequently encounter locked doors that require solving puzzles to gain access. A particular challenge awaits in the Shrine Vault, where you must discover and correctly align three distinct symbols on a dial lock. This guide will help you locate these symbols and complete the puzzle effectively.

Note: The following instructions are tailored for those tackling the puzzle on Hard difficulty.

Locating the Shrine Vault Puzzle

The Shrine Vault puzzle is essential for progressing through the main storyline, making it an unavoidable challenge for players. Situated along the Shrine Path, this puzzle becomes accessible shortly after you solve the Shrine Path Altar puzzle.

Solving the Shrine Vault Puzzle

Rustic lock puzzle with symbols, Journal icon and Select, Rotate, Confirm, Back options displayed on screen. — Shrine Vault puzzle solution

To successfully unlock the Shrine Vault and open the large door, players must align three combination lock dials to showcase three specific symbols. Note that one dial is missing, and you will need to locate that as part of the puzzle. The required symbols can be found behind three unique ema plaques in the environment, depicting a lightning bolt, a decayed tree, and kudzu—as a vine that is native to Japan.

Finding the Lightning Symbol

Map screen with Shrine Path and Find the correct ema (2/3) instructions. — Lightning symbol location

The first symbol can be found behind an ema plaque located to the west of the small shrine where you previously discovered the ceremonial knife. This particular plaque is easy to identify because of its unique appearance.

Locating the Decayed Tree Symbol

Game map screen with Shrine Path at the top and Find the correct ema (1/3) on the left. — Decayed tree symbol location

The second symbol rests behind an ema showing a tree, positioned to the northwest of the shrine where the ceremonial knife was found. Once again, this plaque features a distinctive design that sets it apart from others in the area.

Kudzu Symbol and Third Combination Lock Dial

Map screen showing Open the Shrine Vault on the Shrine Path with directional and control indicators. — Kudzu symbol and third combination lock dial location

The missing combination lock dial and the kudzu symbol can be found behind the ema plaque depicting the vine, located directly south of the shrine with the ceremonial knife.

Optional: Cat Omamori Location

Map screen with Shrine Path and objective text Find the correct ema (2/3) visible. — Cat Omamori location

In addition to the essential symbols for unlocking the door, the ema plaques also conceal an optional secret: a Cat Omamori amulet. This item reduces damage taken while dodging if equipped. You can find the Omamori to the west of the central shrine.

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