Hey fellow travelers! It's 2026, and I'm still out here exploring every nook and cranny of Teyvat. While we've had plenty of new regions since Sumeru, some of its classic, brain-teasing puzzles remain iconic. Today, I'm diving deep into one of my favorites: the mysterious hidden riddle puzzle chain in Sumeru City. This one had me running all over the city, piecing together clues like a true detective. If you haven't solved it yet or just want to relive the experience, buckle up for a detailed, step-by-step guide!

🧩 How to Kickstart the Puzzle

First things first, you gotta find where this whole thing begins. Remember our good old friend Katheryne from the Adventurers' Guild? Well, she's the key, or at least, near the key! Teleport to the southernmost Waypoint in Sumeru City, the one perched right above the Yazadaha Pool. From there, start walking up the familiar slope towards Katheryne's counter. But don't get distracted by daily commissions! Keep your eyes peeled on the left side of the path. You'll spot a shimmering, interactive Billboard just sitting there. Give it a tap, and you'll meet Kamal, who'll basically challenge you with a series of cryptic riddles, claiming no one has ever solved them. Challenge accepted!

🔍 Riddle #1: The Lighthouse's Homeward Figure

The Clue: "In the light of alternating day cycles, one can see the homeward figure of the lighthouse on the beach."

This one sounds poetic, but it's pointing to a specific location. The "lighthouse on the beach" is a big hint. From the same southern city Waypoint, don't go up the slope this time. Instead, head directly southwest towards the small dock area where a couple of ships are anchored. As you approach the port, look for a small, square-shaped water feature right in the middle of the area. Your prize isn't in the water, but on its edge! A small, unassuming brown wooden box will be waiting there with the next clue inside. Don't worry, it's not a Hilichurl trap!

🎭 Riddle #2: The Mirror of Drama

The Clue: "A mirror not made of glass reflects every drama."

Ooh, this one's clever! If you've played through the early Sumeru Archon Quests, this should ring a bell. It's talking about the theater! The "mirror" is likely the water, and the "drama" is the performances on stage. The easiest route? Teleport back to the Katheryne Waypoint. Walk past her, continuing up the slope until the path flattens out. You'll see the Blacksmith on your left. Right in front of him, take the left path that leads into a downward-sloping cave entrance. Follow this tunnel—it leads directly to the Zubayr Theater, the very place you first met the wonderful dancer Nilou.

Once in the theater area, don't get swept away by the music! Look to the right side of the main stage. There, you'll find a decorative fountain or pond. Check the edges carefully, and you'll spot another brown puzzle box hiding, ready to hand over riddle number three.

📚 Riddle #3: The Path to Knowledge

The Clue: "The sole path to knowledge."

This one is practically screaming its answer! In Sumeru, knowledge is everything, and its heart is the Akademiya. More specifically, the path leads to the House of Daena, the grand library. Teleport to the eastern Waypoint in the city, the one that's positioned just below the Akademiya Liaison Officer icon on your map. From there, head straight up the central path right into the imposing Akademiya building. The first big door opens automatically. Keep walking straight through the majestic halls until you reach another significant door. As you approach, a prompt will appear saying "Enter House of Daena".

Go inside this library of dreams (or assignments, if you're a student). Immediately in front of you is a large bridge. Walk down it. At the very bottom, tucked into a corner, sits a shiny Exquisite Chest! This isn't your final reward, but it contains the next piece of the puzzle. Loot it!

💧 Riddle #4: Blooming Flowers & Lingering Pearls

The Clue: "The flowers in the pond are blooming, with watery pearls there lingering."

Time for a more scenic search. This riddle describes a specific pond with flowers. For this, we need to go to the western side of the city. Teleport to the Waypoint right next to the Sanctuary of Surasthana (y'know, the big glowing tree place). Once you load in, turn to the south and just jump down the cliffs carefully. You'll land right by a beautiful, serene pond surrounded by greenery.

Take a look at the water. You'll see actual blooming lotuses floating on the surface—just like the riddle says! Your target is another one of those brown boxes. Check the upper corner or edges of this pond, and you'll find it. This box gives you the final instruction, which is more of a direct request than a riddle.

⏰ The Final Step: Meeting the Puzzle Master

The Instruction: "Please go to the front door of the temple of knowledge at noon."

The trick here is the phrase "temple of knowledge." Your first thought might be the Akademiya again, but nope! In Sumeru's context, the true "temple" is often considered the Sanctuary of Surasthana, the heart of wisdom under the Divine Tree. So, head to its main entrance.

Fast travel back to the Sanctuary Waypoint. You'll be facing the path leading up to the giant tree roots. Follow this path upwards until you reach a large, flat, circular plaza right in front of the Sanctuary's grand doors. Now, here's the crucial part: open your Paimon Menu, go to the clock, and adjust the in-game time to exactly 12:00 (noon).

Once the clock strikes noon, wait a moment. Like magic, an NPC named Drusus will appear near the edge of the circular platform! Go talk to him. He's the mastermind behind all these riddles. He'll have a bit of dialogue... and then give you your reward. Okay, full disclosure—the physical loot might be a bit underwhelming (some Mora, maybe some common materials). BUT, the real prize is the achievement "I've Got It, I've Got It!" which nets you a sweet 5 Primogems! Every gem counts, right?

And that's it, travelers! You've successfully unraveled the Sumeru City Riddle Mystery. This puzzle chain is a perfect example of what I love about Genshin Impact's world design—it encourages you to slow down, observe your surroundings, and think about the lore and environment. It's not just about combat; it's about being an explorer. Even years later, puzzles like this hold a special charm. Now, who's ready to go find the next hidden secret? Happy exploring! ✨