Implement Recursive Algorithms with Sub-workflows: Towers of Hanoi Demo

How it works

This is an example of using sub-workflow nodes and a proof of concept showing that it’s possible to solve and explain recursive problems with n8n.

Towers of Hanoi - Task Move a stack of n disks from rod A to rod C, using rod B as auxiliary. Only one disk can be moved at a time, and no disk may be placed on a smaller disk.

Example n=4 | | | = | | === | | ===== | | ======= | |


 A          B          C

Algorithm procedure Hanoi(n, X, Y, Z): if n == 1: move disk from X to Z else: Hanoi(n-1, X, Z, Y) move disk from X to Z Hanoi(n-1, Y, X, Z)

Notes This is a learning example. In a real scenario, you would probably use an iterative approach with only a single code node. When experimenting with recursion, make sure to define a termination condition first. Also, be aware of the "Restart workspace" link in the n8n Dashboard. Learn more about Recursion on Wikipedia&oldid=1301600240#Towers_of_Hanoi).

Set up steps Optional: Set "numberOfDiscs" in node "Set number of discs" Execute workflow

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Author:Adrian(View Original →)
Created:9/19/2025
Updated:11/30/2025

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