How did Buddhism reach Japan?

The introduction of Buddhism to Japan is traditionally dated to 538 or 552 CE, when King Seong of the Korean kingdom of Baekje presented the Japanese court with a Buddhist image, scriptures, and liturgical ornaments. While this event marks the formal beginning of the religion in Japan, it is likely that Buddhist beliefs had already begun to spread among the population at an earlier date.12

Initially, Buddhism was viewed as a foreign curiosity, admired for its beautiful statuary, architecture, and ceremonies. Although it faced early resistance from conservative aristocrats and Shintō priestly families, it gained significant traction through the support of the imperial court and influential clans like the Soga. Prince Taishi Shōtoku became its most famous early patron, promoting Buddhism as a unifying force for the nation. Over time, the religion became deeply integrated into Japanese society, eventually becoming the state religion during the Nara period.123