To access the City of Tears in Hollow Knight, you’ll first need to make your way to the Fungal Wastes, specifically the area situated above Mantis Village. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate this section and successfully enter the City of Tears.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Ascend Above Mantis Village:
– Start by navigating upwards from Mantis Village in the Fungal Wastes. This will require some dexterity as you will need to perform a series of jumps and dodges.

2. Acquire Necessary Abilities:
– Ensure you have obtained the Mantis Claw (for climbing walls) and the Mothwing Cloak (for dashing). These abilities are essential for traversing the tricky sections leading to the City of Tears.

3. Parkour Section:
– Once you’re in the area above Mantis Village, you will need to navigate a parkour challenge. This involves using wall jumps and dashes effectively to progress through the level.

4. Levers and Bridge:
– As you make your way through the parkour section, you’ll come across two levers. Pulling both will extend a bridge, creating a safer pathway across the chasm—this eliminates the need for some of the more challenging platforming.

5. Using the City Crest:
– At the end of this path, you’ll find a large door that can only be opened by placing the City Crest—a key item you acquire after defeating the False Knight—into a designated slot in a statue. Doing so will open the giant door leading into the City of Tears.

6. Entering the City:
– Once you pass through the door, be cautious; it will close behind you, sealing your exit. You will need to find alternative routes or utilize a Stag Station if you wish to return that way.

Alternative Access Points:
While the entry method described is the main pathway into the City of Tears, there are additional routes you can take:

– Kingdom’s Edge: Another entrance can be accessed from this area.
– Resting Grounds: You can also reach the City of Tears via paths connected to the Resting Grounds.
– Elevators and Hidden Paths: The Royal Waterways and Forgotten Crossroads contain hidden paths and elevators that link back to the City, enabling different ways to explore and return.

Notable Features Inside:
Upon entering the City of Tears, you will find numerous benefits:

– Benches for resting and saving your progress.
– The Nailsmith who can upgrade your weapon, enhancing your combat abilities.
– Access to various other areas and secrets connected to the City, enriching your overall gameplay experience.

By following this guide, you should be able to smoothly navigate your way to the City of Tears and begin exploring all its offerings! Enjoy your adventure in Hallownest!