The traditional date for the introduction of Buddhism to Japan is AD 552, when the king of Paekche (on the Korean peninsula) sent messengers bearing gifts. These were sutras (sacred writings) and an image of Sākyamuni, the historical figure who had founded the Buddhist faith nearly 1000 years previously. Although Buddhism encountered resistance from clans who worshipped native deities (kami), its supporters triumphed in the armed conflict of 587, ensuring its survival. It also came to enjoy the sponsorship of the imperial clan.

Despite this early conflict, there was generally an accommodation of Buddhism with native beliefs. For example, in 743 when Emperor Shômu promised to build a lavish Buddhist temple in Nara, he sought the approval of Amaterasu, the sun-goddess and mythical founder of the imperial line.

Although many of the Buddhist sutras were written out by hand, often using sumptuous materials, printing technology brought from China allowed for the speedy production of multiple texts. Both woodblock and copper-plate printing methods were used to produce small prayer slips. The dissemination of these slips to newly established temples throughout the country served both as a pious act and helped in the effort to establish Buddhism on a firm footing.