How to open the Mikatagahara locked gate in Nioh 3

The Mikatagahara locked gate in Nioh 3 is confusing many players because a large part of the map is inaccessible despite the area being fairly small and recommended for players around level 20. A single path runs from the south and bends to the east, with only a few points of interest, so the locked gate heading north looks like it should be open — but the first time you pass it, it cannot be opened.

You need to progress the story to unlock the gate. That’s the spoiler-free answer: if you still have story objectives left in the Warring States period, continue them and return later.

In detail, the area beyond the gate becomes accessible once you complete the quest called "The Battle of Futamata Castle." After speaking with Hattori Hanzo at Hamamatsu Castle, the quest "The Battle of Mikatagahara" will begin, in which you join forces with Tokugawa Ieyasu to take down Takeda Shingen.

Once you have spoken to Hanzo, head back to the gate and interacting with it will let you push it open — no key required.

Japan, Hamamatsu

nioh 3, mikatagahara, locked gate, warring states, level 20, hamamatsu castle, hattori hanzo, tokugawa ieyasu, takeda shingen, futamata castle