How do I unlock the hidden domain in the Minlin region in Genshin Impact?

To unlock the hidden domain in the Minlin region of Genshin Impact, you need to complete a specific world quest called "The Chi of Yore." This quest is part of the larger storyline in Liyue and involves solving puzzles, defeating enemies, and interacting with the environment. The hidden domain, known as the "Chi of Guyun," is located near the Guyun Stone Forest and becomes accessible only after completing this quest. Below is a detailed guide on how to unlock it, including mechanics, strategies, and tips.

The first step is to start the quest "The Chi of Yore." You can initiate this quest by speaking to Yan'er, an NPC located in Liyue Harbor near the Adventurers' Guild. She will provide you with a quest item called the "Ancient Stone Key," which is essential for unlocking the domain. Once you have the key, head to the Minlin region, specifically the area near the Guyun Stone Forest. The domain entrance is hidden behind a large stone door that requires the key to open.

The quest involves several steps, including solving elemental puzzles and defeating enemies. One of the key mechanics in this quest is the use of Geo constructs and elemental reactions. You will need to interact with Geo pillars and activate them in a specific order. These pillars are scattered around the area, and each one requires a Geo character to activate. Characters like Zhongli, Ningguang, or the Traveler (Geo) are highly recommended for this part of the quest. Their abilities allow you to create Geo constructs and interact with the pillars efficiently.

Once you activate all the Geo pillars, a series of enemies will spawn. These enemies include Hilichurls, Abyss Mages, and Ruin Guards. It is crucial to have a well-balanced team to handle these threats. A recommended team composition includes a Geo character for the pillars, a Pyro character for dealing with Cryo Abyss Mages, an Electro character for breaking shields, and a healer like Barbara or Qiqi to sustain your team during combat. Make sure your characters are adequately leveled and equipped with appropriate artifacts and weapons to maximize their effectiveness.

After defeating the enemies, you will need to interact with a large stone tablet near the domain entrance. This tablet will provide you with a riddle that hints at the correct order to activate the Geo pillars. Pay close attention to the riddle, as activating the pillars in the wrong order will reset the puzzle, forcing you to start over. The correct order is usually based on the number of symbols or the arrangement of the pillars in the environment. Take your time to observe the surroundings and match the clues provided by the tablet.

Once the puzzle is solved, the stone door will open, revealing the hidden domain. Before entering, make sure your team is fully healed and ready for combat. The domain contains several chambers with enemies and traps, so having a strong team is essential. Inside the domain, you will face more Ruin Guards and Abyss Mages, so having characters with high burst damage and crowd control abilities is beneficial. Characters like Diluc, Keqing, or Ganyu can deal significant damage to these enemies, while characters like Venti or Sucrose can group them together for easier elimination.

Artifact and weapon recommendations for this quest include focusing on damage output and survivability. For your main DPS characters, equip artifacts like Gladiator's Finale or Crimson Witch of Flames to boost their attack and elemental damage. For support characters, artifacts like Noblesse Oblige or Maiden Beloved can enhance their abilities and healing. Weapons should be chosen based on the character's role, with high attack weapons for DPS characters and energy recharge or healing bonus weapons for support characters.

Common mistakes to avoid include rushing through the puzzles without paying attention to the clues, neglecting to heal your team between battles, and underestimating the strength of the enemies in the domain. Take your time to solve the puzzles correctly and ensure your team is always in good condition before proceeding. Additionally, make sure to use elemental reactions effectively during combat to maximize damage and break enemy shields quickly.

Advanced techniques for this quest include using elemental resonance to boost your team's performance. For example, having two Pyro characters in your team will increase your attack by 25%, while two Geo characters will increase your shield strength and provide additional protection. You can also use food buffs and potions to enhance your characters' stats and make the battles easier. Items like Adeptus' Temptation or Electro Resistance Potions can provide significant advantages during combat.

In summary, unlocking the hidden domain in the Minlin region requires completing the "The Chi of Yore" quest, solving Geo pillar puzzles, and defeating a series of enemies. A well-balanced team with strong DPS and support characters is essential, along with appropriate artifacts and weapons. Pay attention to the clues provided by the stone tablet, and take your time to solve the puzzles correctly. Avoid common mistakes like rushing through the quest or neglecting your team's health, and use advanced techniques like elemental resonance and food buffs to optimize your performance. With careful planning and execution, you will successfully unlock the hidden domain and reap the rewards it offers.