In the vast and enchanting world of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, players are constantly drawn to new adventures, and one of the most intriguing additions since its release is the Bubbul Gems system. These rare gems, introduced as a fresh currency, have become a staple for collectors and strategists alike. Back in 2025, as players dive back into Hyrule after the Upheaval, the thrill of hunting down these gems hasn't faded—it's only grown with time. The caves, once hidden, now beckon with mysteries, and the chase for Bubbul Gems feels as exhilarating as ever. But what makes this quest so special? Is it the challenge, the rewards, or the sheer joy of exploration? Let's uncover the secrets together. 💎
What Are Bubbul Gems and Bubbulfrogs?
Bubbul Gems are a unique form of currency in Tears of the Kingdom, used exclusively to trade with Koltin, a wandering monster part salesman who dreams of transforming into a Satori. Players can't just stumble upon these gems—they must be earned by defeating Bubbulfrogs, those giant blue toads clinging to cave walls throughout Hyrule. 
When you encounter a Bubbulfrog, it'll fire distracting bubbles at Link, making aiming a bow tricky—remember, you can't shoot through those bubbles! After a few well-placed arrows, the frog drops not only a Bubbul Gem but also a fleeting Blupee that grants rupees. The gem remains until collected, adding a layer of strategy. Personally, I find this battle pulse-pounding; there's nothing like the satisfaction of lining up that perfect shot in a dimly lit cave. Have you ever felt that rush when a bubble almost ruins your aim? It's moments like these that make exploration unforgettable.
How to Find Bubbulfrogs Efficiently
Bubbulfrogs are exclusively found in caves, so spelunking is key. To locate these hidden entrances, players should keep an eye out for Blupees—those glowing blue rabbit creatures. 
Follow a Blupee when it runs off; it'll guide you straight to a cave opening. Once discovered, caves are marked on your map with a special icon, and after defeating the Bubbulfrog, a checkmark appears to track your progress.
But there's a smarter way: Satori, the serene mountain animal from Breath of the Wild, can assist. Find cherry blossom trees scattered across Hyrule—sometimes with a Gerudo woman nearby—and drop a piece of fruit into the bowl at the trunk. This summons Satori, who illuminates nearby caves with blue columns. Following these leads to new Bubbulfrog locations. As a player, this method feels magical; it's like having a mystical tour guide through Hyrule's underground wonders. Why wander aimlessly when Satori can light your path?
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Steps to use Satori:
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Locate a cherry blossom tree.
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Drop any fruit into the bowl.
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Follow the blue columns to caves.
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Defeat the Bubbulfrog inside.
The Quest for Koltin and His Shop
To start trading Bubbul Gems, players must first find Koltin and his brother Kilton. Their initial location is near Pico Pond, northeast of Lookout Landing or close to Woodland Stable if unlocked. Look for their hot air balloon—it's hard to miss! 
Interacting with them triggers "The Hunt for Bubbul Gems" quest, where Koltin eats a gem to begin his transformation into a Satori. A Bubbulfrog is conveniently inside the nearby cave for your first gem. After this, he demands more gems, ending the initial quest and starting "The Search for Koltin," as he travels Hyrule in his balloon after 9 PM.
Finding Koltin later is easier than you think: either stumble upon his balloon at night or ask Kilton in Tarrey Town (Akkala Highlands) for his next location. Personally, I love the unpredictability—seeing that balloon appear at dusk always sparks excitement. Can you imagine the thrill of tracking him down for a late-night trade?
Koltin's Shop: What Can You Buy?
Once you find Koltin, his shop offers amazing rewards for your Bubbul Gems. 
Here's a full list of items, their prices in gems, and effects:
| Item Name | Price in Gems | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Moblin Mask | 2 | Slows Moblins' notice of Link |
| Hinox Toenail (3) | 3 | +7 Fuse Attack Power when fused with arrows |
| Mystic Robe | 4 | Causes Link to lose Rupees instead of health when struck |
| Fire Keese Eyeball (8) | 4 | Sets fire to targets when attached to arrows |
| Lizalfos Mask | 3 | Slows Lizalfos' notice of Link |
| Ice-Breath Lizalfos Tail (8) | 4 | +10 Fuse Attack Power, whip effect when fused |
| Mystic Trousers | 4 | Enhances Rupee-based defense with Mystic Robe |
| White-Maned Lynel Mace Horn | 5 | +40 Fuse Attack Power when fused with weapons |
| Horriblin Mask | 3 | Slows Horriblins' notice of Link |
| Gleeok Wing (2) | 4 | Greatly increases arrow firing range |
My favorite is the Mystic Robe—it adds a fun risk-reward element, making battles feel more dynamic. With 100 gems needed for all items, it's a long-term goal that keeps players hooked. Ever wondered how to prioritize your gem spending? Start with masks for stealth or attack boosts for tougher foes!
Personal Reflections and the Joy of Collecting
As a player since the game's launch, I've spent countless hours exploring Hyrule's caves, and the Bubbul Gem hunt never gets old. There's a sense of accomplishment in clearing a cave and seeing that checkmark on the map—it's like unlocking a piece of the world's soul. The combination of strategy in finding frogs and the reward system with Koltin creates a loop that's both challenging and rewarding. Plus, the visuals, like the ethereal glow of Blupees or Satori's light show, add to the immersion. In 2025, revisiting this mechanic feels nostalgic yet fresh, proving why Tears of the Kingdom remains a timeless masterpiece.
So, why not start your own adventure today? Grab your bow, follow a Blupee, and see what treasures await in the caves. Share your stories with fellow players—how many gems have you collected? Let's make 2025 the year we conquer Hyrule together! 🔥