How to Acquire the Key in Assassin’s Creed Shadows (Thrown to the Dogs)
Image Credit: Ubisoft, Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows)
During the Thrown to the Dogs side quest in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you’ll need to find a key to Ichiro’s inheritance. The problem? The key isn’t just sitting out in the open—it’s hidden somewhere around Takako’s homestead, and it can spawn in one of three random locations.
Here's exactly how to track it down, no guesswork required.
Step 1: Deal with Takako
After following Ichiro’s dog west, you’ll run into Takako, who clearly has issues with Ichiro and his dog. She’ll reveal that Tsuki-Maru (the dog) is connected to Ichiro’s inheritance, which is why she’s not thrilled you’re poking around.
You get a choice:
Kill Takako to avenge the dog (because, fair).
Spare her and make her leave.
Important: Your choice doesn’t affect the key’s location or the quest rewards. So go with your gut.
Step 2: Find the Hidden Key
The key can spawn in one of three spots around Takako’s house. You’ll need to search the area. Here’s where to look:
Behind the Shed (Northwest Corner)
Go behind the shed northwest of the homestead.
You’ll see some bamboo blocking the way—cut it down.
The key is behind the bamboo.
Under the Eastern Building (Crawl Space)
Head to the eastern building in the area.
Go around to the back and look for a crawl space entrance.
Slide in and check under the floorboards for the key.
Inside the Western House (Under a Hat)
Enter the western house near the large doors.
Look inside for a hat on the floor—the key is under it.
Note: Only one location will have the key during your playthrough, so check each spot if needed.
Return to the Grave
Once you’ve got the key, follow Tsuki-Maru back to Tennoji Temple back to Ichiro’s grave, and then interact with the box next to the dog to unlock it.
You’ll find Ichiro’s letter inside, asking you to protect Tsuki-Maru. The quest ends, and the dog becomes your pet—because that’s the real treasure here.
Rewards for Completing Thrown to the Dogs
Tsuki-Maru (Pet, now available for your hideout)
Ichiro’s Letter (Quest Item)
500 XP and Quest Completion Glory
Final Blurb
Finding the key in Thrown to the Dogs isn’t hard—but it does involve a bit of detective work and possibly slicing some bamboo. Whether you spared Takako or not, just know that you now have a dog sidekick, and that makes everything worth it.
