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Children crafting a glowing Obon lantern
Cultural Celebrations

Obon Lantern: Guiding the Spirits Home

Light the way for loved ones with a miniature tōrō nagashi. This printable Obon lantern guide explains welcoming fires, farewell lanterns, and gratitude rituals, then walks kids through building a keepsake lantern with reflection prompts.
1
Credit
  • ✓Kid-friendly overview of Obon and tōrō nagashi traditions
  • ✓Printable lantern panels to color or customize with family symbols
  • ✓Step-by-step build guide using craft sticks and a safe LED tea light
  • ✓Thank-you message cards for ancestors, teachers, or friends
  • ✓Discussion questions that connect memories to themes of light and remembrance

See Our Resources In Action

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What’s inside

  • Cultural primer that explains how families welcome and send off ancestors during Obon
  • Cut-and-build lantern templates sized for classroom or family crafts
  • Maker instructions for framing panels and adding a soft LED glow
  • Gratitude prompts and storytelling starters to share around the finished lantern

Extend the learning

Pair this pack with our Obon Festival for Kids article to explore photos, vocabulary, and bon odori ideas. Host a twilight lantern circle, rehearse a simple dance, or share family wishes before floating your lantern outdoors.

Unlock the PDF activity guide inside your Learning Tail library to begin crafting together.