Reaching the City of Tears marks a pivotal turning point in Hollow Knight, transitioning the player from the early regions into the heart of Hallownest. Accessing this rain-slicked metropolis requires specific progression items and a clear understanding of the underground map connections. Following updates in daily gaming news often helps players track essential walkthroughs for classic indie titles.
Required Abilities Before Entering the City
Before attempting to travel to the City of Tears, players must acquire two essential movement abilities. The Mothwing Cloak unlocked in Greenpath enables air dashing, while the Mantis Claw found in the Mantis Village allows wall jumping.
Additionally, players need to defeat the Mantis Lords or navigate around their arena to retrieve the City Crest from a fallen statue. Carrying this crest is the standard key to unlocking the main gates leading into the city's western half.
Navigating Through the Fungal Wastes
The primary route to the City of Tears starts in the upper regions of the Fungal Wastes. Head to the eastern side of the zone, right above the path that leads down toward the Mantis Village.
Work your way through the fungal platforms until you encounter Hornet, who will retreat further east across a large gap. Use wall jumps and dashing to follow her path toward a massive stone door set into the cavern wall.
Unlocking the City Gates with the City Crest
Approaching the large stone structure reveals a slot designed specifically for the City Crest. Inserting the crest triggers a mechanism that opens the door, allowing passage into a long transition corridor.
Once inside, the heavy door locks behind the Knight, making this a one-way trip until alternative travel routes are unlocked. Descend through the vertical shaft while avoiding hazards to finally step out into the eternal rainfall of the City of Tears.
Alternative Routes and Shortcuts
Players who explore alternative paths can also access the City of Tears through the Deepnest or the Resting Grounds via the Tram system. Using a Simple Key to open the Royal Waterways later provides another access point connecting the lower sewers to the city floor.
Unlocking the Stag Station located near the Storerooms area will quickly establish a fast-travel link back to Dirtmouth. Taking the time to locate Cornifer near the entrance ensures you have a detailed map to navigate the expansive urban district safely.
