All Dragon's Tears Memory Locations — TotK Geoglyph Guide
What Are Dragon's Tears?
The Dragon's Tears are one of the most narratively powerful systems in Tears of the Kingdom. Scattered across Hyrule are 12 massive geoglyphs — enormous drawings etched into the earth that depict figures, dragons, and scenes from an ancient era. These drawings are so large that they are completely invisible from ground level. You need significant altitude — the top of a Skyview Tower, a Sky Island, or a high glide — to even recognize you're standing on one.
Inside each geoglyph is a tear-shaped puddle of golden light. When Link steps into it, a memory cutscene plays, showing events from Hyrule's distant past. These memories tell the complete story of Rauru, the first King of Hyrule, and the original catastrophe that defined the world you're exploring. They form the backbone of TotK's main narrative, and collecting all 12 — plus one final secret memory — delivers the game's most emotionally powerful revelation.
The Geoglyph Mechanic
Each geoglyph is:
- Enormous — typically 200–400 meters across
- Only visible from above — the ground-level perspective shows nothing unusual
- Permanently marked on the terrain — they do not despawn or change
- Tied to a specific memory — each one unlocks a single cutscene
- Not auto-marked on the Purah Pad — you must find them yourself
The tear puddle glows with warm golden light and is located somewhere within the geoglyph's outline, often near a meaningful position (the heart of a figure, the eye of a dragon, the hands of a kneeling form). You only need to step into it — no combat, no puzzle, no item required.
Starting the Questline — Impa at Kakariko Village
The Dragon's Tears questline is officially started by speaking with Impa at Kakariko Village. She is located in the ring-shaped stone structure at the center of the village, studying a glowing mural.
To reach Impa:
- Travel to Kakariko Village in East Necluda (coordinates approximately 1847, -1001, 0113).
- Head to the large stone ring structure in the center of the village — you cannot miss it.
- Speak with Impa to trigger the quest: "The Dragon's Tears."
Impa will explain that she has been tracking geoglyphs visible from the sky and believes they are connected to the disappearance of Princess Zelda. She gives you the name of the first geoglyph to find and sets you on the trail.
You do not have to start this quest to collect the tears — you can step into any tear puddle at any time and the memory will play. However, starting the quest with Impa organizes the narrative and triggers her commentary as you collect each memory, adding additional context. It is strongly recommended to visit Impa first.
How to Find the Tear Inside a Geoglyph
Finding the geoglyph is one challenge. Finding the tear puddle inside it is another. Here's the general method:
Step 1: Get High
Ascend to the top of the nearest Skyview Tower, or climb a high ridge or Sky Island nearby. You need at least 200–300 meters of altitude to clearly see the geoglyph outline beneath you.
Step 2: Spot the Golden Shimmer
From altitude, scan the ground slowly. The tear puddle emits a faint but visible warm golden glow — different from the yellowish-orange of the geoglyph's ground texture. Use ZL + R (Scope) if you have it unlocked to zoom in.
Step 3: Identify the Meaningful Position
The puddle is not random. It tends to appear at a symbolically significant location within the geoglyph — the center of a figure's chest, the eye socket of a dragon's head, the outstretched palm of a hand. Look at the shape of the geoglyph and reason about where the "important" point would be.
Step 4: Glide Down
Deploy your paraglider and aim for the shimmer. Do not rush — if you approach too fast and overshoot, the slope may carry you out of the puddle before the cutscene triggers. Land gently and walk into the center of the glow.
Step 5: Stand Still
Once you step in, the cutscene plays automatically. If it does not trigger, you may be on the edge — move toward the brightest point of the puddle.
All 12 Dragon's Tears — Complete Locations
The memories are numbered in story order. You can collect them in any sequence, but viewing in order provides the clearest narrative experience.
Memory 1 — "Sonia and Rauru"
Region: Eldin Mountains Nearest Tower: Eldin Tower Approximate Coordinates: 1510, 3275, 0379 Geoglyph Shape: A large figure resembling a dragon or goat-like creature, sometimes described as a ram or horned beast, etched across the eastern Eldin slopes
Finding the Tear: Launch from Eldin Tower and fly east-northeast. The geoglyph is on the slopes above the volcanic foothills, far enough from Death Mountain that the terrain is traversable on foot. The tear puddle is located near the central body mass of the figure. The golden glow is visible from directly above — aim for it from your glide.
What the Memory Shows: The very first glimpse of ancient Hyrule. Link witnesses Rauru — the first King of Hyrule — alongside Sonia, his queen. This memory establishes the foundational relationship and sets the scene for the ancient world that all subsequent memories expand upon. A quiet, almost serene moment that belies the darkness ahead.
Tips:
- The slopes here are gentle enough to approach on foot from the Eldin Tower road if you miss your glide.
- Do not confuse this area with the geoglyphs further south — this one is distinctly in the mountain zone.
Memory 2 — "A Show of Fealty"
Region: Central Hyrule — East of Hyrule Castle Nearest Tower: Lookout Landing Tower or Hyrule Castle Approximate Coordinates: 0900, 0650, 0100 Geoglyph Shape: A kneeling or bowing figure, with arms outstretched in a gesture of submission or oath-taking
Finding the Tear: From Lookout Landing, fly northeast toward the fields between Hyrule Castle and the Eldin foothills. The geoglyph is visible from the top of Lookout Landing itself on a clear day. The tear puddle sits near the hands or the head of the kneeling figure — look for the brightest golden point in the center-upper portion of the design.
What the Memory Shows: Ganondorf, chieftain of the Gerudo, appears before Rauru and Sonia for the first time. He bends the knee and pledges loyalty to the new kingdom — a solemn oath witnessed by Rauru's assembled sages. His demeanor is controlled and deferential, but something in his eyes tells a different story. This is the beginning of the betrayal arc.
Tips:
- This is one of the closer geoglyphs to Lookout Landing, making it a natural second stop early in the game.
- If the castle's gloom makes navigation difficult, approach from the east side.
Memory 3 — "Mineru's Counsel"
Region: Akkala Highlands — Near Akkala Tower Nearest Tower: Akkala Tower Approximate Coordinates: 3741, 1662, 0195 Geoglyph Shape: An angular, geometric figure suggesting a robed or armored form — possibly representing a sage in a posture of discussion or warning
Finding the Tear: Akkala Tower sits on a tall pillar in eastern Akkala. Ascend to the top and look southwest across the highlands. The geoglyph spreads across an open plateau. The terrain here is rocky and uneven, so the golden glow of the puddle may blend slightly with the orange-tinged mineral ground — look carefully.
What the Memory Shows: Mineru, the Sage of Spirit and Rauru's sister, speaks privately with her brother. She has grown uneasy. Something about Ganondorf's stone — the Secret Stone he carries — radiates a power she does not trust. She urges caution. Rauru listens but does not act on her warning yet. This memory plants the seeds of the tragedy that follows.
Tips:
- The Akkala region can be confusing due to the terrain complexity. Use the tower for a top-down perspective and mark the shimmer before descending.
- The tear tends to be in the torso/chest region of this geoglyph.
Memory 4 — "A Mysterious Cloud"
Region: Lanayru — West of Zora's Domain Nearest Tower: Lanayru Tower Approximate Coordinates: 2200, 0450, 0118 Geoglyph Shape: A serpentine or elongated figure, suggesting a flowing form — possibly representing a dragon in motion or a figure in distress
Finding the Tear: From Lanayru Tower, scan west toward the wetlands and the lowlands approaching Zora's Domain. The geoglyph occupies a relatively flat section of terrain, making the golden tear easier to see from height. The puddle is typically in the middle section of the elongated figure.
What the Memory Shows: A dark cloud begins to encircle Hyrule Castle. The sages gather and observe it with alarm. The cloud is clearly unnatural — a manifestation of dark energy seeping into the land. Rauru recognizes it as Ganondorf's doing. The situation is deteriorating faster than anticipated. The memory captures the moment when the kingdom shifts from suspicion to crisis.
Tips:
- The wetland terrain can make foot approach muddy and slow. Glide straight to the puddle from above if possible.
- Don't confuse the Lanayru geoglyph with the geoglyphs in East Necluda — they're in separate regions.
Memory 5 — "The Mystery Deepens"
Region: Faron — Faron Grasslands / Lake Hylia Nearest Tower: Faron Tower Approximate Coordinates: 0820, -3390, 0102 Geoglyph Shape: A large serpent body coiling across the grassland, representing a dragon mid-movement
Finding the Tear: Faron Tower stands on a rocky elevated platform. From the top, look north toward the grasslands bordering Lake Hylia's southern shore. The geoglyph is one of the largest in Hyrule, and its serpentine body winds across the flat terrain in a way that makes the golden shimmer of the puddle especially visible in good lighting. The tear is near the midpoint of the serpent body.
What the Memory Shows: The investigation into Ganondorf's secret deepens. Rauru and Sonia discover that Ganondorf has been conducting rituals using his Secret Stone — rituals tied to the Demon King's power. The memory reveals the full scope of what Ganondorf has been preparing beneath the surface of his oath. The calm veneer of fealty is fully cracked by this point in the story.
Tips:
- Faron is sunny and open, making this one of the more visually accessible geoglyphs.
- The tear in the serpent body is large — you'll see it from a long distance if you arrive at the right altitude.
- Approach from the lake side for the cleanest glide path.
Memory 6 — "A King's Duty"
Region: Hebra — North Tabantha Snowfield Nearest Tower: Rito Village Tower or Rospro Pass Skyview Tower Approximate Coordinates: -3410, 3800, 0380 Geoglyph Shape: A robed figure standing upright, facing forward — regal in posture, arms at sides or slightly raised
Finding the Tear: The Hebra snowfields are the coldest and most remote geoglyph location. You will need cold-resistance food or the Snowquill Set before venturing here. From Rospro Pass Skyview Tower, fly north across the snowfields. The geoglyph is carved into the white snow and terrain — from above, the golden tear stands out dramatically against the white background. The puddle sits in the chest or upper center of the standing figure.
What the Memory Shows: Rauru understands that conflict is now inevitable. Ganondorf will not be reasoned with. The memory shows Rauru making the fateful decision to confront the Demon King — accepting that his duty as king may require the ultimate sacrifice. This is one of the most emotionally resonant memories in the sequence, revealing the weight of leadership and the cost of peace.
Tips:
- Prepare for cold weather. This is not a quick visit without preparation.
- The snowfield's flat terrain makes landing easy once you locate the puddle from above.
- The contrast of gold against snow makes the tear visually easy to spot — easier than many other locations.
Memory 7 — "Zelda and the Imprisoning War"
Region: Gerudo Highlands — Near Gerudo Canyon Nearest Tower: Gerudo Canyon Skyview Tower Approximate Coordinates: -3200, -1100, 0250 Geoglyph Shape: A figure with outstretched arms, or a dragon with spread wings — spanning a wide section of the highland plateau
Finding the Tear: The Gerudo Highlands are high altitude and subject to temperature extremes — cold at the peaks, hot near the canyon. From Gerudo Canyon Skyview Tower, fly northwest along the highland ridge. The geoglyph lies on a relatively flat section of the plateau. The tear is near the central span — the chest or midsection of the winged figure.
What the Memory Shows: This memory bridges the ancient past and the present. It depicts Zelda in the ancient era — how she arrived, and what role she has been playing in events Link has not yet understood. Crucially, the memory begins to illuminate the connection between the ancient Zelda and the Light Dragon that Link has been spotting throughout his adventure. The narrative is accelerating toward its convergence point.
Tips:
- Gerudo Highland winds can affect your glide path. Allow extra altitude when launching from the tower.
- If you're approaching from the Gerudo Desert side, be mindful of the temperature shift as you gain elevation.
Memory 8 — "Birth of the Demon King"
Region: Central Hyrule — Hyrule Field (South/East) Nearest Tower: Lookout Landing Tower Approximate Coordinates: -1140, -0320, 0100 Geoglyph Shape: A dramatic, imposing figure — dark and wide, with an aggressive or threatening posture suggesting transformation or emergence
Finding the Tear: This geoglyph sits in the open fields south and east of Hyrule Castle, relatively close to Lookout Landing. It is one of the most accessible geoglyphs in the game. From Lookout Landing, fly south. The figure's dark, aggressive shape is visible even at moderate altitude. The tear puddle is near the center or upper section of the figure.
What the Memory Shows: The full transformation of Ganondorf into the Demon King. The memory shows the moment Ganondorf's ambition fully consumes him — the Secret Stone, the ritual, the release of power that would poison Hyrule for eons. This is the catastrophic pivot point of the ancient story. The attack on Rauru and Sonia begins here.
Tips:
- This is a good early-game pickup given its proximity to Lookout Landing.
- The open Hyrule Field terrain has few obstacles for landing.
- Even from the Lookout Landing platform itself, you may be able to see the golden shimmer with the scope.
Memory 9 — "Zelda and Sonia"
Region: East Necluda — Hateno Area Nearest Tower: Popla Foothills Skyview Tower or Rabella Wetlands Approximate Coordinates: 3430, -2400, 0000 Geoglyph Shape: Two figures facing each other — one clearly feminine, the other regal, in a pose suggesting a meeting, recognition, or revelation
Finding the Tear: East Necluda's rolling terrain can make aerial navigation tricky. From Popla Foothills Skyview Tower, fly southeast toward the coast. The geoglyph lies on the slopes above the Necluda Sea. The two-figure shape is distinctive from above. The tear puddle tends to be between the two figures — near the center line of the composition.
What the Memory Shows: Zelda and Sonia meet for the first time in the ancient era. The memory captures the warmth and recognition between them — Sonia accepts the strange visitor from another time with grace and curiosity. The emotional bond formed here makes what comes later even more devastating. This memory is a brief moment of light before the darkness deepens.
Tips:
- The coastal slopes can be steep — approach the puddle slowly on foot if your glide overshoots.
- The two-figure composition means the tear could be at either figure's position — look for the brighter of the two glow points if you see more than one shimmer.
Memory 10 — "Tears of the Dragon"
Region: Lanayru / Necluda Sea Coast Nearest Tower: Lanayru Tower or Mount Lanayru Skyview Tower Approximate Coordinates: 2800, -1800, 0095 Geoglyph Shape: A large dragon in a sorrowful or descending pose, wings folded or trailing — the emotional centerpiece of the geoglyph series
Finding the Tear: This geoglyph is on the coastal terrain east of Lanayru, near the sea cliffs. From Mount Lanayru Skyview Tower, fly south along the coast. The dragon figure is oriented along the slope, which can make the tear puddle harder to spot as the gold blends with the light on the eastern-facing terrain. Look for the shimmer near the dragon's head or eye position.
What the Memory Shows: The memory's title is the same as the quest itself — and for good reason. This is the emotional climax of the ancient story. It depicts a transformation driven by sacrifice and grief. Understanding what has been lost, and what was given to try to undo that loss, reframes everything Link has been doing since the opening of the game. This memory is devastating.
Tips:
- Save this one and view it after the earlier memories for maximum emotional impact.
- The coastal winds can be strong — launch from the tower with maximum height.
- If you reach the sea cliffs without finding the tear, you've gone too far east — backtrack slightly.
Memory 11 — "The Secret of the Ring Ruins"
Region: West Necluda / Great Plateau Border Nearest Tower: Sahasra Slope Skyview Tower or Popla Foothills Approximate Coordinates: 0845, -1590, 0095 Geoglyph Shape: Two figures in close proximity — one in a protective or sacrificial stance over the other, suggesting a final act of devotion
Finding the Tear: West Necluda's terrain is familiar to most players from the early game. From Sahasra Slope Skyview Tower, fly southwest toward the lowlands. The geoglyph spans a gentle slope south of the Plateau's eastern edge. The tear puddle is typically positioned at the most dramatic point of the two-figure composition — near the figure in the protective posture.
What the Memory Shows: Rauru's true sacrifice is revealed. The first King of Hyrule gave everything to contain the Demon King — not just his life, but the shape of his legacy, the nature of his power, and the hope he placed in a future hero he would never meet. This memory answers questions raised since the very opening of TotK and provides the emotional foundation for everything Link is fighting for.
Tips:
- This geoglyph is close enough to Kakariko Village that Impa's proximity adds weight to the memory.
- After collecting this one, you're one memory away from the final revelation.
Memory 12 — "The Dragon's Tears" (Final Memory)
Region: Sky — Requires finding the Light Dragon Nearest Tower: N/A — This memory is not found in a ground geoglyph Approximate Coordinates: Variable — the Light Dragon flies a circuit across all of Hyrule Geoglyph Shape: None — the 12th memory is located on the Light Dragon itself
Finding the Tear: This is the most unique memory in the game. After collecting all 11 ground geoglyphs, the 12th Dragon's Tear is not on the ground. It is located on the Light Dragon — the enormous golden dragon that has been flying across the sky throughout your entire adventure.
To trigger the final memory:
- Collect all 11 ground-based tears first.
- Locate the Light Dragon flying somewhere in Hyrule's sky. It follows a consistent flight path that traverses all major regions.
- Reach the Light Dragon — use a Skyview Tower to launch yourself high, then paraglide toward it. You may need Stamina upgrades or Endura food for the approach.
- Land on the Light Dragon's back. It is safe to stand on.
- Walk forward toward the dragon's forehead. There, you will find the golden tear puddle.
- Step into it.
What the Memory Shows: The final memory is the convergence of everything. It answers the central mystery of Tears of the Kingdom: what happened to Zelda. The sacrifice she made, the form she took, and the cost she accepted to give Hyrule — and Link — a chance. It is the single most emotionally significant cutscene in the game. No further description — this one must be experienced.
Tips:
- Track the Light Dragon's flight path from a high Skyview Tower. It is visible as a massive golden shape in the sky.
- The easiest approach: ascend from a tower in Eldin, Lanayru, or Faron (all have high launch points) and glide toward the dragon as it passes.
- If the dragon is not visible from a tower, fast travel to several towers in sequence until you spot it.
- You cannot fall off the Light Dragon — an invisible barrier keeps you on its back.
- The Master Sword is also obtained from the Light Dragon, but in a different location on its head — do not confuse the sword site with the tear puddle location.
Recommended Order for Maximum Story Impact
While you can collect the tears in any order, the following sequence delivers the best narrative experience. The memories build on each other, and viewing them out of sequence can diminish the emotional impact of the finale.
Optimal Collection Order:
| Stop | Memory | Why This Order | |------|--------|----------------| | 1st | Memory 1 — Sonia and Rauru (Eldin) | Establishes the characters and world | | 2nd | Memory 2 — A Show of Fealty (Central Hyrule) | Introduces Ganondorf as a political figure | | 3rd | Memory 3 — Mineru's Counsel (Akkala) | Plants seeds of distrust | | 4th | Memory 4 — A Mysterious Cloud (Lanayru) | The crisis begins | | 5th | Memory 8 — Birth of the Demon King (Central Hyrule) | The catastrophe arrives (nearby, efficient) | | 6th | Memory 5 — The Mystery Deepens (Faron) | Context for Ganondorf's power | | 7th | Memory 9 — Zelda and Sonia (East Necluda) | Emotional respite | | 8th | Memory 11 — The Secret of the Ring Ruins (West Necluda) | Close by, escalating sacrifice | | 9th | Memory 6 — A King's Duty (Hebra) | Rauru's decision | | 10th | Memory 7 — Zelda and the Imprisoning War (Gerudo) | The bridge to present | | 11th | Memory 10 — Tears of the Dragon (Lanayru Coast) | Emotional climax (save for near-last) | | 12th | Memory 12 — The Dragon's Tears (Light Dragon) | The final revelation — do this last |
Geographic Efficiency Route: If you prefer to minimize travel time over narrative order:
- Central Hyrule cluster: Memories 2 and 8
- Eldin/Akkala sweep: Memories 1, 3, then 9 (swinging southeast)
- Lanayru to Necluda: Memories 4, 10, 11
- Faron south: Memory 5
- Hebra/Gerudo west: Memories 6, 7
- Light Dragon: Memory 12
After Collecting All 12 Tears
When the final memory plays on the Light Dragon, the game's central mystery is resolved. Returning to Impa in Kakariko Village after completing all 12 tears triggers a closing conversation in which she reflects on what the memories revealed and acknowledges the full scope of the sacrifice that shaped the world.
Beyond the narrative payoff:
- No specific item reward is given for collecting all 12 tears — the reward is entirely story-based.
- The quest "The Dragon's Tears" is marked complete in your Adventure Log.
- The memories remain viewable at any time from the Album section of your Purah Pad.
- Completing all 12 tears is not required to finish the main quest, but the final boss fight carries significantly more weight with full knowledge of the story.
For players who rush to the finale without collecting the tears, the ending lands differently — meaningful, but incomplete. The tears are optional, but they are the heart of the game's story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I collect the tears before talking to Impa? Yes. Stepping into any tear puddle plays the memory whether or not you've started the quest. Talking to Impa simply organizes the quest in your log and provides additional dialogue.
Do the tears appear on the map? No. The Purah Pad does not auto-mark geoglyphs or tear locations. You must find them yourself, using Skyview Towers for aerial perspective or following this guide.
I stepped into the puddle but nothing happened. Why? You may be on the edge of the puddle rather than the center. The trigger zone is smaller than the full glow area. Walk slowly toward the brightest point.
Can I miss the 12th tear by not finding the Light Dragon? The Light Dragon never despawns — it flies Hyrule's circuit indefinitely. You can always find it. It becomes especially visible after completing certain main quests that direct you to it.
Are the memories viewable again after I collect them? Yes. Open your Purah Pad, go to the Album, and all collected memories are available for replay at any time.
Do I need to collect all 12 tears to fight Ganondorf? No. The main quest can be completed without any Dragon's Tears. But the final sequence will be far more impactful with full context.
Related Guides
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
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