WhileRise of the Ronin’santi-shogunate crew all have the same goal, each character has a distinct personality. Genzui Kusaka is a radical who wants to take down the system. Ryoma Sakamoto is the idealist straining to find a compromise. Kogoro Katsura is the high-strung brother figure trying to maintain some order among them all. And then there’sShinsaku Takasugi, who goes and does his own thing.

Shinsaku is one of those types who seems “too cool for school.” His straight tone and deadpan ribs can make him seem aloof. However, he is a fun-loving, artistic soul who makes others welcome. Furthermore, he is an excellent combatant from whom you can learn much. So, grab a cup of sake while we walk you through bonding with Shinsaku Takasugi.

Shinsaku Takasugi stands in front of the entrance to the US Consulate before the mission to assassinate Diplomat Harris in Rise Of The Ronin.

Where Can I Find Shinsaku Takasugi?

Shinsaku Takasugi is one of the few characters you’ll encounter throughout all three chapters of Rise of the Ronin (other characters like this includeKogoro KatsuraandRyoma Sakamoto).

You’ll find Shinsaku in each of the Choshu Clan bases: theSakura Inn in Bashamichi (Chapter 1), the Choshu Clan Villa in Azabu (Chapter 2), and the Choshu Clan Kyoto Estate in Sanjo (Chapter 3).

A view of Sakura Inn from Rise Of The Ronin’s map.

How Can I Get Shinsaku Takasugi To Visit My Longhouse?

You can compel Shinsaku to visit your longhouse byredecorating via the Remodel menu. Place the following accessories on your display shelf:

What Gifts Does Shinsaku Takasugi Like?

Shinsaku enjoysgifts related to arts and leisure(if you haven’t already gathered that from the shamisen-playing and trips to the gambling den). Make sure to gift him these items whenever you meet.

you may purchase gifts fromTradersand Black Marketeers.Additionally, you can receive gift items viaenemy drops, mission rewards, cat concierge missions, and pilgrim dog voyages.

A view of Choshu Clan Villa from Rise Of The Ronin’s map.

How Else Can I Bond With Shinsaku Takasugi?

Shinsaku Takasugi is an easy character to bond with because there areseveral waysto bond with him. He hasfour Bond Missionsto pursue. Plus, you canface off with him at the training dojo. Lastly, you may engage in a romantic relationship with him by earning his Favour (but we’ll discuss that later).

Bond Missions

Bond Missions are character-driven sub-missionsthat dive into said character’s personal life so we may learn more about them. Shinsaku’s Bond Missions are vital to complete if you wish to form a Veiled Vow with him.

Dojo Training

Once you get comfortable in the training dojo, you should spar with Shinsaku. This training usesreal weapons and provides Shinsaku with firebombs, making winning difficult. However, you’ll get rewarded with a stronger bond between yourself and Shinsaku. Plus, you’ll learn two new Martial Skills!

Can I Romance Shinsaku Takasugi?

you’re able to earn Favour and form a Veiled Vow with Shinsaku Takasugi. However, unlocking this romantic option requires much patience. Follow the steps below to woo this enticing free spirit.

As you can see, Shinsaku is a character you must wait for throughout most of the campaign to finally court. A pertinent story event resolves itself in The Spice of Life mission, finally making romancing Shinsaku a possibility.

A bird’s eye view of the Choshu Clan Kyoto Estate from Rise of the Ronin’s map.

What Are Shinsaku Takasugi’s Bond Bonuses?

Shinsaku Takasugi is the man to know if you wish to significantly expand yourcombat style knowledge. Bonding with him will teach you three unique combat styles:Yagyu Shinkage-ryu (Katana), Shinto Munen-ryu (Polearm), and Kiheitai Style (Oxtail Blade). You’ll also learn how to performCombined Assassinations with allies.

Shinsaku Takasugi looks off camera while standing in a dimly lit environment in Rise Of The Ronin.

A page that displays Shinsaku Takasugi’s stats, relationship status, location, and bond bonuses in Rise of the Ronin.