How to Learn All Shamisen Songs in Ghost of Yotei

In Ghost of Yotei, Shamisen Songs are more than musical flourishes — they guide you to hidden treasures, collectibles, and secrets as you explore the vast world. Learning all these melodies not only enriches your experience but also helps you find things more easily. In this article, you’ll discover how many Shamisen Songs there are, where and when to obtain each one, and tips to make sure you don’t miss any.

From the beginning, you hold the Shamisen — a traditional string instrument that Atsu carries everywhere. As you progress, you unlock songs that you can play by swiping on the controller touchpad (or equivalent input). When played, each song emits a “Gust Wind” or magical effect that points out nearby points of interest such as shrines, camps, hot springs, or hidden gear. Because of that, it’s very helpful to collect every song.

There are eight Shamisen Songs in total in Ghost of Yotei, and none of them is permanently missable — you can learn them even after finishing the main story.

Here is a quick list:

• Atsu’s Song
• Song of Spirit
• Song of Shrines
• Song of Well-Being
• Song of the Wolf
• Song of Revenge
• Song of Vanity
• Song of the Ainu

Below, I’ll walk you through how to unlock each one.

How to Unlock Each Shamisen Song

1. Atsu’s Song

This is the first song you have. It is granted automatically during the prologue of the game. No extra steps are needed.

2. Song of Spirit

To acquire this, go to Master Hejiro’s Garden in Yotei Grasslands (northwest part). You’ll trigger past events by interacting in certain locations — golden leaves flying, memory sequences, and more. In the side quest “Master of the Shamisen,” you rebuild events in the present day, and Hejiro teaches you the melody.
Once learned, playing this song helps you find Bamboo Strike locations, which boost your maximum spirit.

3. Song of Shrines

This one is slightly random. When you’re camping, especially in Ishikari Plain, there’s a chance a random settler NPC will appear. If you play your Shamisen for them, they teach you this song. To increase your chances, camp in different regions, wait, then try again.
Once played, it helps you locate shrines that reward charms and accessories.

4. Song of Well-Being

Head to Ishikari Plain along the coast to find a cliff edge (northwest) where a kite flies. That marks a Shamisen Practice area. Interact there to learn the song.
Its benefit: it guides you to hot springs, which restore and upgrade health.

5. Song of the Wolf

Complete at least four Wolf Den locations. After the fourth one, Atsu will sit and play, automatically learning the song.
This melody helps you locate other Wolf Dens scattered across the map.

6. Song of Revenge

In the Tokachi Range, find the Musician’s Camp north of Shizunai Woods. There is a ronin playing the Shamisen. Donate coins to him, talk, follow his instructions (like building a campfire), and then play for him. He’ll teach you the song.
Playing it helps you locate Yotei Six Camp locations, which include altars and campsites.

7. Song of Vanity

Travel to Teshio Ridge, west of Red Crane Inn. Look for a kite that signifies a Shamisen Practice spot on mountain peaks overlooking the Teshio River. Climb up and learn the melody.
It helps you find Vanity Gear such as cosmetic and aesthetic items.

8. Song of the Ainu

This one requires completing two side tales. First, finish The Soul of an Instrument in the Tokachi Range (at an Ainu Musician’s Camp). Next, in Nayoro Wilds, complete A Melody of Thoughts at the Cukpet Hills campsite. After finishing both, the song is automatically learned.
Once learned, it guides you to Ainu items scattered throughout the world.

Tips and Sequence Advice

• Follow story and side tales: Many songs are tied to specific quests or side tales, so progress naturally instead of rushing exploration.
• Watch for kites: A flying kite marks a Shamisen Practice spot where you can unlock a new song.
• Camp often: Especially in regions like Ishikari Plain — it increases your chance of triggering the Song of Shrines event.
• Don’t worry about missing songs: You can return in free roam after the main story to collect any missed songs.
• Use songs proactively: Once you unlock a song, play it often to guide your exploration.
• Keep a checklist: Track your progress to ensure you’ve learned all eight.

Why Learning All Songs Matters

• Navigation aid: Each melody points you toward related hidden content such as shrines, camps, and gear.
• Completion rewards: Learning all eight songs grants you an achievement or trophy, marking your progress as a true Shamisen master.
• Improved progression: You’ll find upgrades, health sources, charms, and cosmetics faster.
• Immersive experience: The Shamisen system deepens the connection between music, environment, and storytelling.

Suggested Unlock Order

While you can learn them in any order, this progression ensures a smooth journey:

1. Atsu’s Song (automatic)
2. Song of Spirit (Hejiro’s Garden)
3. Song of Well-Being (Ishikari coast)
4. Song of Vanity (Teshio Ridge)
5. Song of the Wolf (Wolf Dens)
6. Song of Revenge (Tokachi Range)
7. Song of the Ainu (two side tales)
8. Song of Shrines (random camp encounter)