Backstreet Courtyard Key: how to get it and what it opens

Know which route you need

PC Gamer clarifies that the gate in Pangzhen’s backstreet is not the route to Old Man Gen’s house or the third Acolyte. Those areas use the Flaming Mane to burn the vine barrier near the Pond of Fading Song bell.

Section sources: PC Gamer: Backstreet Courtyard Key use and location

How to get the key

• Complete the Illusory Pipa and reach the Mountain of Imprisonment.
• Speak with the couple near Shrine Outer Gate to begin the Ledger of Atonement lead.
• Find the ledger in the caves below and complete that task.
• Return to the woman, continue the Bai Xue tale and receive the Backstreet Courtyard Key.

Section sources: PC Gamer: Backstreet Courtyard Key use and location

Common mix-up and evidence

If you are trying to reach Old Man Gen’s house or the third Acolyte scarecrow, obtain and restore Flaming Mane, then look for the vine barrier near the Pond of Fading Song bell instead of searching for this key. The route comes from PC Gamer’s published guide; this site has not play-tested its triggers or reward.

Section sources: PC Gamer: Backstreet Courtyard Key use and location

Verification note

Summarized from the public guides listed below; not tested by this site in the retail game. If the in-game journal, item card or version differs, use the game as the authority.

Section sources: PC Gamer: Backstreet Courtyard Key use and location