How to Beat Great Tengu in Nioh 3
A large winged yokai that wields a sword and uses wind magic.
Overview
A large winged yokai that wields a sword and uses wind magic. Similar to regular Tengu enemies but significantly amplified. Highly mobile, the Great Tengu uses diving attacks and wind projectiles. Despite his intimidating appearance, his attacks are relatively predictable — dodge forward-left to get behind him, land quick combos, and use Ninjutsu from safe distance.
Recommended Setup
Recommended Level
53+
Element to Use
Fire (Primary)
Bring Fire Talismans and Quick-Change Scrolls. Consider using the Lightning Sword Build build for this fight.
Boss Moves
indicates a dangerous attack that should be prioritized for dodging.
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diving Strike | melee | Red glow, flies toward you from above | Dodge sideways — timing matters, don't dodge too early |
| Sword Slashes | melee | Lands and swings sword in wide arcs | Block or dodge forward-left to get behind him |
| Wind Projectiles | ranged | Hovers and gathers green wind energy | Dodge to the side — fired frequently but easy to avoid |
| Grapple Move | grab | Extends talons while hovering low | Dodge forward-left — surprisingly easy to evade |
| Wind Storm | aoe | Flies high, massive wind energy gathers below | Sprint away from the impact zone |
Strategy by Phase
In Phase 1, Great Tengu uses basic attacks. Learn these patterns before the fight intensifies.
Phase 1 Moves
| Move | Type | Tell | Counter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diving Strike | melee | Red glow, flies toward you from above | Dodge sideways — timing matters, don't dodge too early |
| Sword Slashes | melee | Lands and swings sword in wide arcs | Block or dodge forward-left to get behind him |
| Wind Projectiles | ranged | Hovers and gathers green wind energy | Dodge to the side — fired frequently but easy to avoid |
| Grapple Move | grab | Extends talons while hovering low | Dodge forward-left — surprisingly easy to evade |
Tips for Beating Great Tengu
- Dodge forward-left to get behind him consistently
- Land 1-2 combos then back away — don't overcommit
- Use all Ninjutsu from safe distance between melee engagements
- Throw shuriken between combos to let Ki recharge
- Light armor below 30% weight for fast dodges is recommended
- In Phase 2 wind attacks increase significantly — maintain more distance
Drops & Rewards
| Item | Type | Rarity | Drop Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guardian Spirit: Kurama Tengu | material | exotic | Guaranteed |
| Tengu Feather | material | common | - |
Recommended Builds for this Boss
Other Boss Guides
Data Sources
Last Updated: Feb 25, 2026Game Version: v1.04