Illustrated Obon scene — AI-generated artwork behind this special day's word search puzzle
Obon, as a word search. 12 words drawn from what it marks, and the customs and symbols around it sit hidden in a 15×15 letter grid, running in every direction. Drag across a word to claim it, and clear the board to finish.
Words to find: OBON, BONODORI, CHOCHIN, TORO, BUTSUDAN, OHAGI, GASSHO, YUKATA, KIMONO, LANTERN, MATSURI, INCENSE.
Diagonals are where most players stall. Once you are down to the last word or two, sweep the diagonals deliberately.
Obon word list, defined
TORO/tɔroʊ/ · noun
A type of large, powerful bull, especially one raised for fighting or breeding. A type of Japanese beer. Related: bull, ox, beast, brute.
YUKATA/juːˈkɑːtə/ · noun
A traditional Japanese garment, typically worn on casual occasions, consisting of a lightweight kimono-style robe with a V-neck and wide sleeves. Related: kimono, robe, garment, festival wear.
KIMONO/kiˈmoʊnoʊ/ · noun
A traditional Japanese garment, typically worn for special occasions, consisting of a long, wide piece of fabric wrapped around the body. Related: robe, garment, dress, kimono.
LANTERN/ˈlæntərn/ · noun
A container with a light source inside, typically made of paper, metal, or plastic, and often used for decoration or as a source of light in the dark. Related: candle, lamp, light, torch.
INCENSE/ɪnˈsɛns/ · noun
A substance that gives off a fragrant smoke when burned, typically in a ritual or ceremonial context. A sweet or pleasant smell. Related: perfume, scent, fragrance, odor.