Tears of the Kingdom: How to find the Hylian Shield
The Hylian Shield is the strongest, most durable shield in Tears of the Kingdom. For many players, such a useful shield is something they want to acquire as early as possible in their playthrough.
Tools to Reach the Hylian Shield
To reach the Hylian Shield’s location, you must use a Zonai craft or the paraglider. You can find the shield as early as you would like, but if you want to reach it the simplest, most direct way, you first will need to complete the “Crisis at Hyrule Castle” quest to obtain the paraglider.
If you would prefer to use a Zonai craft, be prepared to create something that can move across the water.
It would also be beneficial to increase your maximum stamina or prepare some stamina-restoring meals or elixirs before attempting to find the shield.
Locate the Hyrule Castle Docks
The Hylian Shield is found at the top of the stairs leading to the Hyrule Castle Docks. The docks rest at the bottom-north portion of Hyrule Castle. Travel to that portion of the castle using the paraglider or a Zonai craft to find the docks’ cave entrance.
Once inside the cave, climb up onto the docks to reach the stairs. Or, if you would prefer to avoid the Gloom Hands that are waiting for Link on the stairs, head east to the cliffside that reaches up to the top of the stairs. Climb that cliffside to reach your destination.
Light the Torch and Obtain the Hylian Shield
At the top of the stairs, the only object of note is a large torch built facing toward the water. The torch is unlit, which is your clue for what you must do next. Ignite the word in the torch using any means (throwing a Fire Chu-chu Jelly, shooting a fire arrow, etc.).
Once the torch is lit, a secret compartment in the floor behind the torch will open to reveal a treasure chest. Open the chest to collect the Hylian Shield.
