
Opening the Fungal Wastes and the City of Tears in *Hollow Knight* requires strategic progression through the game’s interconnected world. To access the Fungal Wastes, players must first defeat the Mantis Lords in the Mantis Village, which unlocks the path leading to this area. The Fungal Wastes is a sprawling, mushroom-filled region with unique enemies and challenges, serving as a gateway to deeper areas like the Queen’s Gardens. Meanwhile, the City of Tears, a majestic yet melancholic location, becomes accessible after acquiring the Tram Pass from the Nailmaster Sheo in the Royal Waterways. This pass allows players to ride the tram, bypassing the dangerous Deepnest and arriving directly at the City of Tears. Both areas are pivotal in advancing the game’s story and unlocking key abilities, making them essential milestones in any player’s journey through Hallownest.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location of Fungal Wastes | Accessed via the Forgotten Crossroads in Hallownest. |
| Key to Fungal Wastes | Requires the Tram Pass to unlock the gate leading to the area. |
| Location of City of Tears | Found in the eastern part of Hallownest, above the Forgotten Crossroads. |
| Key to City of Tears | No specific key required; accessible via the Stag Station or by descending from higher areas. |
| Fungal Wastes Access Point | Tram Station in Forgotten Crossroads. |
| City of Tears Access Point | Stag Station in City of Tears or descending from Kingdom's Edge. |
| Notable Enemies in Fungal Wastes | Fungal Shriekers, Husk Guard, Infected Knights. |
| Notable Enemies in City of Tears | Mosscreep, Husk Sentinel, Flying Sentry. |
| Key Items in Fungal Wastes | King's Brand, Tram Pass (if not already obtained). |
| Key Items in City of Tears | Simple Key, Lovey-Dovey's Poem, Awoken Dream Nail. |
| Boss in Fungal Wastes | No major boss; focus on exploration and platforming. |
| Boss in City of Tears | Soul Master (optional) and Grimm (if Grimm Troupe is active). |
| Charm Notability | Fungal Wastes: Isma's Grove for Shaman Stone. City of Tears: Dashmaster charm useful for traversal. |
| Game | Hollow Knight by Team Cherry. |
| Update | Latest data as of the most recent patch (1.5.85.2). |
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What You'll Learn

Locating Fungal Wastes entrance in Greenpath
The Fungal Wastes entrance in Greenpath is a subtle gateway, easily missed by hurried explorers. Nestled within the lush, bioluminescent foliage of this early-game area, the entrance blends seamlessly with its surroundings. To locate it, start by traversing the lower path of Greenpath, where the dense undergrowth gives way to a more open area near the Mantis Village. Look for a small, glowing mushroom cluster—this is your first clue. The entrance itself is a narrow, vertical passage partially obscured by vines and moss, requiring a precise jump or a well-timed dash to access.
Analyzing the layout of Greenpath reveals a deliberate design choice: the Fungal Wastes entrance is positioned to reward curiosity and observation. Unlike more obvious landmarks, such as the Forgotten Crossroads or Dirtmouth, this entrance demands a degree of exploration. Players must venture off the beaten path, often after acquiring the Mantis Claw, which enables wall-clinging and simplifies the approach. The proximity to the Mantis Village is no coincidence; it encourages players to engage with the area’s mechanics before progressing deeper into the game.
To successfully locate the entrance, follow these steps: First, ensure you have the Mantis Claw, as it is essential for navigating the surrounding terrain. Second, from the Mantis Village, drop down to the lower path and head left, hugging the wall. Third, keep an eye out for the glowing mushroom cluster, which marks the entrance’s vicinity. Finally, use a precise jump or dash to enter the narrow passage, which leads directly to the Fungal Wastes. Be cautious of nearby enemies, such as the Mantis Warriors, who can disrupt your approach.
Comparatively, the Fungal Wastes entrance is less intuitive than other area transitions in *Hollow Knight*. While the City of Tears, for instance, is accessed via a grand, unmistakable staircase, the Fungal Wastes requires a more nuanced approach. This design choice reflects the game’s emphasis on exploration and discovery, rewarding players who take the time to scrutinize their surroundings. Unlike the straightforward paths of earlier areas, this entrance serves as a gentle nudge toward the game’s growing complexity.
Descriptively, the entrance to the Fungal Wastes is a microcosm of Greenpath’s aesthetic: organic, mysterious, and alive. The passage itself is framed by twisting roots and glowing fungi, creating a sense of transition from the verdant above-ground to the alien below. The faint hum of bioluminescence guides the way, contrasting with the darker, more industrial tones of later areas. This visual and auditory shift underscores the game’s thematic progression, making the discovery of the entrance a memorable milestone for players.
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Reaching City of Tears via Forgotten Crossroads
Navigating from Forgotten Crossroads to the City of Tears in Hollow Knight is a pivotal journey that unlocks new challenges and storylines. The path is intricate, requiring precise platforming, combat skills, and an understanding of the game’s mechanics. Begin by locating the entrance to Forgotten Crossroads, typically accessed from Dirtmouth via the well or from the Ancient Basin. Once inside, head left to find the tram station, which serves as a shortcut to deeper areas. However, to reach the City of Tears, you’ll need to traverse the Fungal Wastes first, a biome teeming with fungal growth and unique enemies.
The transition from Forgotten Crossroads to Fungal Wastes is marked by a vertical descent through a series of platforms and hazards. Look for the tram tracks leading downward; follow them until you encounter a large, glowing mushroom blocking the path. Destroy it using your nail or spells to proceed. The Fungal Wastes introduces new enemies like Volatile Mosquitos and Spitting Fungi, so adapt your combat strategy accordingly. Pro tip: Use the Dash ability to dodge projectiles and quickly close the distance on enemies. The area also features hidden paths and benches for saving progress, so explore thoroughly.
From the Fungal Wastes, the route to the City of Tears becomes more vertical and challenging. Locate the elevator near the Mantis Village, which requires 400 geo to operate. If you lack funds, backtrack to collect geo or defeat enemies. Once activated, the elevator will take you to the upper levels of the Fungal Wastes, where you’ll find a series of platforms and spikes. Precision is key here—mistiming a jump can lead to a fatal fall. At the top, you’ll encounter a large, ornate gate leading to the City of Tears. This gate is locked, but the key is nearby: defeat the nearby enemy to unlock it.
The City of Tears is a visually stunning area with cascading waterfalls and elegant architecture, but it’s also home to tougher enemies like the Soul Twister and Infected Knights. Prepare by upgrading your nail and acquiring charms like Quick Slash or Dashmaster for increased mobility. The area’s layout is expansive, with multiple levels and hidden passages. One critical location is the Soul Sanctum, accessible via a series of platforms on the right side of the map. Here, you’ll find the Dream Nail, a game-changing upgrade that allows you to heal by absorbing essence from enemies.
In summary, reaching the City of Tears via Forgotten Crossroads is a test of skill, patience, and exploration. Master the vertical traversal in Fungal Wastes, manage your resources wisely, and prepare for tougher combat in the City of Tears. Each step of the journey rewards curiosity, so take time to uncover secrets and upgrades that will aid you in the challenges ahead. With persistence, you’ll unlock one of Hollow Knight’s most iconic and story-rich areas.
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Unlocking tram access for easy travel
In the intricate world of Hollow Knight, unlocking tram access is a pivotal step in connecting the Fungal Wastes to the City of Tears, streamlining travel and enhancing exploration efficiency. The tram system, once activated, serves as a vital artery, reducing traversal time and opening up new possibilities for adventurers. To begin, players must first locate the tram station in the Fungal Wastes, situated near the eastern edge of the area. This station is initially blocked, requiring the activation of a nearby lever to restore functionality.
Activating the tram involves a series of precise steps. Start by ensuring you possess the Mantis Claw, a key ability needed to reach the lever. From the Fungal Wastes’ main area, head east and look for a vertical shaft leading downward. Use the Mantis Claw to climb down and locate the lever hidden behind a wall of thorns. Pulling this lever will initiate the tram’s operation, allowing you to board and travel seamlessly to the City of Tears. Be cautious of enemies in the area, as they can disrupt your progress if not dealt with swiftly.
Comparatively, the tram system in Hollow Knight mirrors real-world public transportation networks, emphasizing the importance of connectivity in both fictional and actual urban planning. Just as trams in cities reduce congestion and improve accessibility, the in-game tram simplifies navigation, enabling players to focus on exploration rather than tedious backtracking. This design choice highlights the developers’ understanding of player experience, ensuring that travel remains engaging without becoming a chore.
For optimal use, consider the tram’s strategic placement within your exploration route. Once activated, it becomes a permanent fast-travel point, ideal for quick returns to the City of Tears for healing or upgrading. Pair this with the Stag Stations for a comprehensive travel network, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency. Practical tips include saving before activating the lever, as the area can be tricky to navigate, and ensuring you have enough health and soul to handle any unexpected encounters.
In conclusion, unlocking tram access between the Fungal Wastes and the City of Tears is a game-changing achievement in Hollow Knight. By following these steps and understanding the system’s strategic value, players can transform their exploration experience, turning a once-daunting journey into a seamless adventure. Mastery of this mechanic not only enhances gameplay but also deepens appreciation for the game’s meticulously designed world.
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Defeating enemies blocking key paths
Enemies blocking key paths in Hollow Knight, particularly in areas like Fungal Wastes and City of Tears, often require more than brute force to overcome. These adversaries are strategically placed to test your skill, patience, and understanding of the game’s mechanics. For instance, the Infected Knights in City of Tears wield shields and heavy strikes, while the Fungal Shrimps in Fungal Wastes swarm unpredictably. Recognizing their attack patterns is the first step to clearing your path. Observe how they move, strike, and react to your actions—this knowledge alone can reduce the number of attempts needed to progress.
To defeat these enemies efficiently, prioritize mobility and precision over raw damage output. In Fungal Wastes, the terrain is slippery and uneven, making it easy to misjudge jumps or dashes. Equip the Mantis Claw to scale walls and create distance from Fungal Shrimps, then use quick strikes with the Nail to eliminate them one by one. In City of Tears, the platforming is more vertical, so the Monarch Wings (double jump) are essential for dodging Infected Knights’ sweeping attacks. Time your dashes to avoid their strikes, then strike back when they’re vulnerable. Remember, the goal isn’t to fight every enemy head-on but to neutralize threats blocking your route.
A comparative approach reveals that these areas demand different strategies despite their shared purpose of obstructing progress. Fungal Wastes enemies thrive in chaos, so controlling the battlefield is key. Use spells like Vengeful Spirit to hit multiple Shrimps at once or Desolate Dive to stun groups. In contrast, City of Tears enemies rely on precision and timing. Here, the Shade Soul spell can be effective against shielded foes, as it pierces defenses. Tailor your loadout and tactics to the environment—what works in the slippery Fungal Wastes may fail in the vertical City of Tears.
Finally, don’t overlook the importance of healing and resource management. Both areas are far from benches, so carrying enough Geo and healing items is crucial. Use Soul efficiently by striking enemies just before they attack to regain health without wasting resources. If you’re struggling, consider upgrading your Nail or acquiring charms like Quick Slash or Longnail to increase your damage output. Defeating these enemies isn’t just about winning a fight—it’s about mastering the game’s rhythm and adapting to its challenges. With patience and strategy, even the most stubborn blockers can be overcome.
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Using abilities to access hidden areas
In the intricate world of Hollow Knight, accessing hidden areas often requires more than just exploration—it demands the strategic use of specific abilities. For instance, the Fungal Wastes and City of Tears are teeming with secrets, but many remain locked away until you acquire key skills. The Mantis Claw, for example, is essential for wall-clinging, allowing you to scale vertical surfaces and reach otherwise inaccessible platforms. Without it, you’ll find yourself staring at tantalizing gaps or ledges, unable to progress. This ability isn’t just a tool; it’s a gateway to uncovering the game’s hidden lore and rewards.
Consider the Monarch Wings, another ability that transforms your exploration entirely. This double-jump mechanic isn’t merely for traversing large gaps—it’s a key to uncovering hidden passages above. In the City of Tears, for instance, many secrets are tucked away in elevated areas, requiring precise jumps and mid-air adjustments. Pairing the Monarch Wings with the Mantis Claw creates a synergy that lets you navigate complex environments with fluidity. The takeaway? Abilities aren’t just upgrades; they’re puzzle pieces that, when combined, reveal the game’s true depth.
A persuasive argument for mastering these abilities lies in their impact on resource acquisition. Hidden areas often contain valuable items like Geo, Soul, or charms that enhance your character’s capabilities. For example, the Dashmaster charm, found in a hidden alcove in the Fungal Wastes, requires both the Mothwing Cloak (dash ability) and precise timing to reach. Investing time in mastering these skills pays dividends, as they not only unlock secrets but also empower you to tackle more challenging areas with confidence. Ignoring them limits your potential and leaves you at a disadvantage.
Comparatively, the Isma’s Grove area in the Fungal Wastes highlights the importance of ability-based exploration. Here, the Crystal Heart ability is crucial for activating crystal platforms, which are invisible until you’ve acquired this skill. This mechanic underscores the game’s design philosophy: progression is tied to both physical exploration and mental mapping of where abilities can be applied. Similarly, in the City of Tears, the Shade Cloak allows you to phase through obstacles, revealing hidden paths that were previously impenetrable. Each ability doesn’t just add convenience—it reshapes the map, turning once-impossible routes into viable pathways.
Practically speaking, here’s a tip: always backtrack after acquiring a new ability. Areas you’ve already explored often hold secrets that were previously unreachable. For instance, after obtaining the King’s Brand in the City of Tears, revisit earlier zones to burn vines blocking hidden entrances. This iterative approach ensures you maximize the utility of each ability and uncover every secret the game has to offer. By treating abilities as keys rather than mere upgrades, you’ll find that Hollow Knight’s world expands exponentially, rewarding your curiosity and skill.
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Frequently asked questions
To open Fungal Waste, you need to defeat the Mantis Lords in the Mantis Village. After defeating them, return to the Mantis Village and speak to the Mantis Lord's sibling, who will open the gate to Fungal Waste.
To access the City of Tears, you must first obtain the Tram Pass from the Nailsmith in Dirtmouth. Once you have the pass, you can use the tram in the Forgotten Crossroads to travel to the City of Tears.
Yes, both areas require specific abilities. For Fungal Waste, you’ll need the Mantis Claw to wall-climb and access certain areas. In the City of Tears, having the Monarch Wings for double jumping is highly recommended, as well as the Isma’s Tear charm to survive in the acidic water.











































