Link's Awakening Face Shrine Key: How to Find the Key

9 September 2026 | 11

Navigating Koholint Island in The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening requires players to uncover essential dungeon keys hidden across diverse regions. To unlock the sixth dungeon, known as the Face Shrine, players must retrieve the Face Key from the ancient Ancient Ruins. Securing this key requires preparation, proper equipment, and a clear understanding of the environmental puzzles standing in Link's path.

Journeying to the Ancient Ruins

Before attempting to locate the Face Key, players must travel to the southeastern region of Koholint Island. The Ancient Ruins are guarded by ancient Armos statues that come to life when approached or touched. Clearing a path through these ruins requires careful movement and the strategic use of weapons like the bow or hookshot.

Navigating the outdoor maze of statues leads directly toward a hidden cave entrance located deep within the ruins. Inside this underground chamber, players encounter a formidable mini-boss guarding the key's resting place. Defeating this encounter requires patience and well-timed attacks to breach the enemy's defenses.

Defeating the Ancient Ruins Boss

The chamber inside the Ancient Ruins houses the Armos Knight, a heavily armored adversary that protects the Face Key. Players must keep their distance and use charged sword attacks or arrows to damage the boss while avoiding its powerful jump attacks. Once the Armos Knight is defeated, it drops the coveted Face Key onto the stone pedestal.

Collecting the key allows Link to finally access the Face Shrine located north of the ruins across the water. Players can use the key on the keyhole lock situated in front of the dungeon entrance to reveal the gateway. Knowing how to locate and acquire this key ensures smooth progression through the main story quest.

Opening the Path to the Face Shrine

With the Face Key safely in Link's inventory, head north through the rapids area toward the northern lake. Using the Flippers, swim across the water to reach the two small islands that form the entrance structure. Inserting the key into the nearby lock causes the ground to shift, raising the dungeon entrance from the lake depths.

Entering the Face Shrine presents new challenges, complex puzzles, and valuable treasures essential for completing Link's adventure. Preparing properly before entering ensures players are well-equipped to face the dungeon's tricky layout and boss encounter.