How do I access the shrine hidden in the Korok Forest area in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

To access the shrine hidden in the Korok Forest area in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you need to complete a specific quest called "The Test of Wood." This shrine is known as the Keo Ruug Shrine, and it is located deep within the Korok Forest, near the Great Deku Tree. The shrine is not immediately visible, as it is tied to a quest that requires you to solve a puzzle involving the Koroks. Here is a detailed guide on how to access and complete this shrine.

First, you need to reach the Korok Forest. This area is located in the central part of Hyrule, within the Lost Woods. To navigate the Lost Woods, you must follow the direction of the wind and the embers floating in the air. If you go the wrong way, you will be sent back to the entrance. The correct path involves moving from torch to torch, always heading in the direction where the embers are blowing. Once you reach the Korok Forest, you will find the Great Deku Tree, who will give you the quest "The Test of Wood."

The quest requires you to find and speak to a Korok named Chio, who is located near the Great Deku Tree. Chio will challenge you to complete a trial that involves carrying a lit torch through a series of obstacles without letting the flame go out. This is where the mechanics of the quest come into play. You must manage the torch's flame carefully, as it can be extinguished by rain, water, or even rolling on the ground. Additionally, you cannot fast travel or use other weapons or items while carrying the torch, so you need to be cautious of enemies along the way.

To start the trial, light the torch at the campfire near Chio. The path you need to follow is marked by a series of lanterns. Your goal is to light each lantern along the way by touching the torch to them. The path will take you through the forest, across wooden bridges, and past several enemies. One of the key strategies is to avoid combat whenever possible, as engaging in fights increases the risk of dropping the torch or having the flame extinguished. If you do encounter enemies, try to sneak past them or use the environment to your advantage, such as hiding behind trees or using the torch to scare them away.

One common mistake players make is rushing through the trial. It is important to take your time and plan your movements carefully. If the torch goes out, you will need to return to the campfire and start over. Another mistake is not paying attention to the weather. If it starts to rain, the torch will be extinguished, so it is best to wait for clear weather before attempting the trial. You can check the weather forecast by looking at the sky or using the Sheikah Sensor to detect changes in weather patterns.

Advanced techniques for this quest include using stealth to avoid enemies and conserving stamina by walking instead of running. You can also use the torch to light grass on fire, creating updrafts that allow you to glide over obstacles. This can be particularly useful for bypassing difficult sections of the path. Additionally, if you have the Flamebreaker Armor or any fire-resistant gear, it can help protect you from fire-based attacks, though this is not strictly necessary for the quest.

Preparation is key for this quest. Make sure you have a good supply of stamina-restoring food or elixirs, as you may need to sprint or climb at certain points. It is also helpful to have a few extra torches in case you accidentally drop or lose the one you are carrying. You can find torches in various locations throughout Hyrule, including stables and enemy camps.

An alternative approach to this quest is to use a fire weapon, such as a Flameblade or a Fire Rod, to light the lanterns. However, this method is more risky, as fire weapons have limited durability and can break during the trial. Additionally, you still need to carry a torch to complete the quest, so this approach does not eliminate the need for careful flame management.

Once you successfully light all the lanterns and reach the end of the path, the Keo Ruug Shrine will appear. Enter the shrine to complete the quest and receive your Spirit Orb. The shrine itself contains a simple puzzle that involves using the torch to light braziers and activate switches. This is relatively straightforward compared to the trial outside, so you should have no trouble completing it.

In summary, accessing the Keo Ruug Shrine in the Korok Forest requires careful planning, patience, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully complete "The Test of Wood" and unlock the shrine. This quest is a great example of the game's emphasis on exploration and problem-solving, and it rewards players with valuable Spirit Orbs that can be used to upgrade Link's abilities.