Growth of Japanese Culture
Japanese Forms of Buddhism By: Caroline Fagg
Formation of Buddhism
Buddhism began in India at 500 B.C. Siddhartha Gautama started this religion . Buddhism spread to China, then korea, and finally to Japan in A.D. 500.
Buddhism Begins in Japan
Buddhism was also a big religion because of Prince Shotoku. Buddhism was also practiced with Shinto. Buddhism was first popular with nobles and then reached the common people. Buddhists believed that peace and happiness could be gained by living a life of virtue and wisdom.
Zen
In 1100 Zen became more common. Zen put emphasis on self-discipline , simplicity, and meditation. The word Zen even means "meditation." Followers practiced Zen by quiet reflection, rather than studying scriptures and preforming ceremonies. Samurai liked it because they thought it would give them inner peace and would help them in battle. Artists liked it because it gave them boldness and simplicity. Zen later became popular in other countries in the West.