What is the solution to the "Secret of the Cedars" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

The "Secret of the Cedars" shrine quest in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a shrine quest that leads you to the hidden Sho Dantu Shrine. This quest is located in the Hebra region, specifically in the Tabantha Tundra area. To start the quest, you need to speak with Bedoli, an NPC found at the Hebra Trailhead Lodge. She will give you a riddle that hints at the location of the shrine. The riddle states, "When the north mountain peeks through the ring, the shrine is there." This cryptic clue is the key to finding the shrine.

To solve this quest, you need to understand the mechanics of environmental puzzles and how to interpret the riddle. The "north mountain" refers to the Hebra Peak, the tallest mountain in the Hebra region. The "ring" is a stone arch located in the Tabantha Tundra. The shrine is hidden beneath the ground, and it will only appear when you stand in the correct position relative to the arch and the mountain.

Here are the step-by-step instructions to complete the quest. First, travel to the Tabantha Tundra. You can reach this area by heading northwest from the Hebra Tower or by paragliding from the nearby mountains. Once you arrive, look for the stone arch. It is a large, circular rock formation that stands out in the snowy landscape. Stand near the arch and face north, towards Hebra Peak. You need to position yourself so that the peak is visible through the center of the arch. This alignment is crucial, as it triggers the shrine to appear.

Once you are in the correct position, the Sho Dantu Shrine will rise from the ground. Approach the shrine and interact with it to enter. Inside, you will find a puzzle that involves manipulating metal blocks to create a path. Use the Magnesis rune to move the blocks and create a bridge or staircase to reach the monk. The puzzle is relatively straightforward, but it requires careful positioning of the blocks to ensure you can cross safely.

There are a few important tips and considerations to keep in mind while completing this quest. First, make sure you have the Magnesis rune unlocked, as it is essential for solving the shrine's puzzle. Additionally, the Tabantha Tundra is a cold area, so you will need cold-resistant gear or food to survive. The Snowquill Set, which can be purchased in Rito Village, is a good option for cold resistance. Alternatively, you can cook dishes with ingredients like Spicy Peppers or Sunshrooms to temporarily increase your cold resistance.

Common mistakes to avoid include misaligning the arch and the mountain. If the shrine does not appear, double-check your position and ensure that Hebra Peak is perfectly centered in the arch. Another mistake is not preparing for the cold environment, which can lead to constant health loss. Make sure to equip the appropriate gear or consume cold-resistant food before venturing into the Tabantha Tundra.

Advanced techniques or optimizations for this quest include using the Sheikah Sensor to detect the shrine once you are close. If you have upgraded the sensor at the Hateno Ancient Tech Lab, it can help you locate the shrine more easily. Additionally, if you have the Revali's Gale ability from Vah Medoh, you can use it to quickly reach the Tabantha Tundra from nearby high points, saving time on travel.

Required items and preparation for this quest include cold-resistant gear or food, the Magnesis rune, and possibly the Sheikah Sensor. If you are low on health or resources, it is a good idea to stock up on healing items and weapons before heading into the cold.

Alternative approaches to this quest include using a guide or map to locate the stone arch if you are having trouble finding it. Some players may also choose to explore the area thoroughly before speaking with Bedoli, as the shrine can be discovered without the quest. However, completing the quest as intended provides a more immersive experience.

In summary, the "Secret of the Cedars" shrine quest involves solving a riddle to find the hidden Sho Dantu Shrine. By aligning the stone arch with Hebra Peak, you can reveal the shrine and complete the quest. Preparation for the cold environment and careful positioning are key to success. With the right approach, this quest is a rewarding challenge that adds depth to your exploration of the Hebra region.