Back in 604AD, Prince Shotoku set 17 constitutional laws, according to the common sources. The second law says “Respect the Three Treasures, they are Buddha, Law, Monk”.
At the time Japan was not unified as a country. Each authorities had a group and had their own society. Prince Shotoku used Buddhism to centralize the authorities to unite a country.
The Emperor Shomu built temples all over the country, and the leading temple Todai in Nara. Buddhism started to expand as the country was becoming formed. Shinto, however, was still not excluded. Shinto Gods were given roles to help and protect Buddhism and moved on together. Shinto Gods were considered an image of Buddha and always there for people in need of help.
In Meiji-era, Shinto was designated as a national religion and Buddhism was separated from Shinto. Some temples were taken down because of it. Currently in Japan, however, people still believe in both Shinto and Buddhism. Not even feeling awkward if a shrine is right next to a temple. In Japan, Buddhism has been changing its form and style as time changes, and has been always accepted.
Satoshi Kajiyama
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