Deku Shrine

The Deku Shrine is a location in, and where a racing mini-game takes place.

Features and Overview
The Shrine is situated on the west side of the Deku Palace. The entrance, however, is initially blocked by a Big Octo; therefore, it is not until Odolwa is defeated in the Woodfall Temple and the Southern Swamp's waters return to their normal state that Link can enter it, since the Big Octo will be gone under these conditions. The Deku Butler appears here after Link brings the Deku Princess back to the Palace and, as thanks, tells the young hero that a reward awaits him at the end of the Shrine. As the Butler guides Link, a race begins.

Mini-Game Rules
The inner part of the Deku Shrine is a labyrinth full of traps and dead-ends. Here, Link must "race" the Deku Butler by keeping up with him until the end of the obstacle course. If Link falls too far behind, the doors connecting the Shrine's different segments will begin to close until Link is trapped within, rendering him unable to catch up. The mini-game is also failed by falling into a chasm at any point along the way. Masks such as the Bunny Hood or the Deku Mask will increase Link's speed, thus making the race a bit easier.

If Link succeeds and reaches the end of the Deku Shrine, the Deku Butler will reward him with the Mask of Scents and apologize for trying too hard to outrun him. The only way to exit the Shrine is through a magic portal that appears alongside the Butler immediately after being granted the Mask.

Trivia

 * A similar race is held in Dampé's Grave in, where Link races the ghost of Dampé the gravekeeper.
 * The Deku Shrine can be entered without clearing the Woodfall Temple if Deku Link stands on the Lily Pad closest to the entrance, removes the Deku Mask, and shoots the Big Octo with an Arrow. The Lily Pad will sink under Link's weight, so this must be done quickly. However, the Deku Butler will not be in the Shrine to race Link, so he cannot proceed past the first room.