A method for manufacturing a linear light source includes: providing a base having a first surface defining recesses in an array in a first direction, and a second surface having a curved contour in a cross section orthogonal to the first direction and a straight contour in a cross section parallel to the first direction; providing light sources each having a top surface and a bottom surface including electrodes; placing the light sources at positions overlapping the recesses in a plan view with the top surface of the light source facing a bottom surface of the recess; placing a first reflective member to cover the light sources and the first surface so that the electrodes of the light sources are exposed; placing a second reflective member on the second surface; and cutting the base along the first direction to define a third surface continuous with the first and second surfaces.