As a seasoned Traveler, the release of the Genshin Impact 4.6 update was a moment of pure excitement. It wasn't just another patch; it was an invitation to dive deeper into the mysteries of Fontaine, to explore the newly unveiled Nostoi region and the enigmatic Sea of Bygone Eras. My primary goal? To seek out every hidden treasure, solve every puzzle, and, of course, claim every precious Primogem I could find. High on that list were the two elusive Shrines of Depths hidden within the submerged Sea of Bygone Eras. From navigating the prerequisites to finally unlocking those ornate chests, here's my personal journey and guide to conquering these challenges.
How to Access the Sea of Bygone Eras
Before you can even think about finding the shrines, you need to gain entry to their aquatic domain. This entire area is locked behind the new World Quest introduced in the 4.6 update: "Canticles of Harmony." My adventure began in Petrichor, within the Nostoi Region. I followed the questline diligently, and it wasn't until I reached the segment titled "First Movement – In the Halls of the Sea King" that the path truly opened. This quest led me beneath Petrichor to the Faded Castle, which served as the grand gateway. Stepping through, I was finally immersed in the breathtaking, watery expanse of the Sea of Bygone Eras. Only then did the hunt for the Shrines of Depths truly begin.
Locating the Two Shrines of Depths
With access secured, the exploration commenced. The Sea of Bygone Eras holds two Shrines, each in a distinct and beautiful location.
1. Hortus Euergetis Shrine
My first stop was east of Initium Iani, near the area known as Hortus Euergetis. The process was straightforward:
-
I teleported to the waypoint located west of Initium Iani.
-
From there, I swam directly towards the towering cliff coral.
-
The shrine wasn't at the peak, but cleverly nestled under the shelter of an underwater coral formation partway up. It was a serene spot, easy to miss if you're not looking carefully.
2. Collegium Phonascorum Shrine
The second shrine presented a more vertical challenge, situated in a high place within Collegium Phonascorum.
-
I started from the southeast teleport waypoint in Alta Semita.
-
The key here was to swim upward, navigating through the aquatic landscape.
-
My landmark was a cluster of distinctive yellow ruined pillars. The shrine is perched proudly among them, offering a majestic view of the surrounding seascape.
The Key to Unlocking Them 🗝️
Finding the shrines is only half the battle. To pry open those coveted chests inside, you need Fontaine Shrine of Depths Keys. As of 2026, here are the two reliable methods to gather them:
| Method | How to Obtain | Number of Keys | Source Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fontaine Statue of The Seven | Level up the statue by offering Hydroculous you find scattered across Fontaine. | 6 Keys | Hydroculous |
| Fountain of Lucine | Offer Hydro Sigils to upgrade the fountain's offering level. | 4 Keys | Hydro Sigils |
A quick tip from my experience: Hydro Sigils are primarily collected by opening treasure chests throughout the Fontaine region. So, exploration truly pays off in multiple ways! Keep an eye on your mini-map for those small white stars—they often mark Hydroculous locations.
My Personal Tips and Reflections
Looking back, this expedition was a perfect blend of storytelling and exploration. The "Canticles of Harmony" quest didn't just feel like a gate; it was a narrative bridge that made arriving in the Sea of Bygone Eras feel earned and significant. When I finally stood before each shrine, key in hand, it was a satisfying culmination.
Why go through all this trouble, you might ask? Well, isn't the promise of generous Primogems, valuable artifacts, and Adventure Rank experience enough? For a dedicated player, these shrines are essential milestones. The process teaches you to engage fully with the new content: complete the quests, explore every nook for chests and sigils, and immerse yourself in the lore of the environment.
So, to my fellow adventurers setting sail for Fontaine's latest secrets: take your time. Enjoy the journey through Petrichor, savor the mystery of the Faded Castle, and let the beauty of the Sea of Bygone Eras sink in. The treasures await, but the adventure to reach them is the real reward. Now, if you'll excuse me, there are still more corners of Nostoi to chart... and undoubtedly, more secrets to uncover. 🧭