In the sprawling world of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, side activities serve as far more than mere experience point dispensers. They deepen the narratives of both protagonists, Yaskue and Naoe, and layer the world with meaningful vignettes. Among the most revealing quests on the Objective Board is Nobutsuna’s Students, a personal journey for Yaskue that tests his swordsmanship and uncovers a grim mystery. What begins as a series of honorable duels with his late teacher’s former pupils becomes a hunt for a killer. This guide provides a thorough walkthrough to locate every student and uncover the truth behind Nobutsuna Sensei’s death.

The quest becomes available after the dramatic events of Act 1, once Yaskue has been reintroduced to the main story. Players who have advanced to this point will find that much of the map has opened up, and with it, the opportunity to pursue Yaskue’s personal storyline. The starting point is a mission called An Education, which sends him to southwestern Azuchi in search of his old teacher’s residence. A letter found during that mission reveals the location. After meeting Nobutsuna Sensei and completing a few initial interactions, a second conversation with the aging swordmaster triggers the quest. Nobutsuna mentions six former students who have spread across the provinces, and he tasks Yaskue with finding them and testing his blade against theirs.

Once accepted, the six students appear as a dedicated group on the Objective Board. Hovering over each one gives only a vague geographical hint, so true exploration is required. The targets are scattered from the familiar heartlands of Omi to the distant shores of Wasaka, and a few are hidden in spots that casual travelers might easily skip. The following sections pinpoint each duelist’s exact location.

Where to Find All Six Students

The quest sends players on a tour of central and western Japan. Every student has a distinct personality and a battleground that suits their style. Approach each one and speak to them; after a short exchange, a duel commences. Defeating them yields no immediate reward except the satisfaction of advancing the quest and learning more about Yaskue’s past.

Marume Nagayoshi

The very first student can be found without ever leaving Azuchi. From Nobutsuna’s house, simply head north to the Saikoji Temple and Trade Harbor area. Marume Nagayoshi stands at the northernmost tip of this coastal location, practicing his sword forms alone. A conversation is all it takes to begin the duel.

Asari Nobutane

Travel to the Kii region and make your way to Negoroji. Once inside the temple town, head south toward the Monk Quarters. Asari Nobutane is concealed within a dense grove of bamboo directly south of the Negoroji Kakurega. The setting gives the duel an appropriately meditative atmosphere.

Hozoin In’ei

This duel takes you to southern Yamato, specifically to the Asuka Rock Basin just south of Takatori. A broad rocky expanse dominates the area. Navigate across the open ground to the far side, where a small temple sits. Hozoin In’ei waits inside, ready for battle.

Nagano Saemon

The fourth student is arguably the easiest to overlook because his home lies in the extreme north. Make your way to Waesaka and head north of Sotomo Gate until you reach a beach. A narrow path leads from the shore into Sotomo Cave. Inside, a body lies before a central rock in a still pool. Interacting with the body initiates the fight — Nagano appears, turning the tranquil cave into a deadly arena.

Yagyu Munetoshi

Return to the Yamato region and head southwest of the Nara Heartland, southeast of Uda Matsuyama Castle. The marker points to Mount Miwa, a sacred peak. Climb to the summit and you will find Yagyu Munetoshi deep in prayer. A respectful bow and a few words later, the clang of steel echoes across the mountain.

Yuki no Kata

For the final official duel, travel to the westernmost region of Harima. The spot is south of Kanki Burned Fields and northwest of Kakagawa. Yuki no Kata kneels before a small rural shrine, also in prayer. This student fights with a ferocity that belies the serene locale.

The Seventh Student and the Dark Turn

After besting all six, the game prompts a return to Nobutsuna’s house to claim the promised rewards. However, things have changed. Only Marume Nagayoshi remains at the residence, and he delivers the grim news: Nobutsuna Sensei has been murdered. This revelation unlocks a seventh and final opponent — Sanada Masatoyo, the true mastermind.

Sanada’s location is his personal Sanada Estate. From Azuchi in Omi, head north into the Susuka Foothills. Continue west past the viewpoint, descending into a murky, swampy stretch of land. The estate sits on the western edge of the swamp. Confronting and defeating Sanada Masatoyo brings the quest line to a close, granting Yaskue a significant amount of XP and a powerful new weapon as a reward for avenging his sensei.

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows continues to offer rich, character-driven side content well into 2026, and Nobutsuna’s Students remains a standout — not only for the combat, but for the quiet moments of reflection and the stark betrayal at its core. Tracking down every student across the provinces rewards the persistent explorer with one of the game’s most memorable narrative arcs.