Final answer:
The term Shinto was coined to distinguish the indigenous religious practices in Japan from the introduced Buddhist practices. While Shinto focuses on veneration of nature and ancestors, Buddhism was established as a state religion in Japan under Empress Suiko. Both religions have coexisted and influenced Japan's culture and rituals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Shinto was coined to draw a distinction of this religious tradition with the newly introduced Buddhism, the way of the Buddha. Shintoism includes the veneration of ancestors and the divine forces of nature, such as kami, and is characterized by its lack of a single written text and its loosely knit set of concepts based on morality, attitude, sensibility, and ritual practice. In contrast, Buddhism became a state religion in Japan during the seventh century under Empress Suiko's rule. Both Shintoism and Buddhism heavily influenced Japan's cultural makeup, and it was common for Shinto and Buddhist practices to coexist, such as having a Shinto priest conduct a wedding and a Buddhist priest conduct a funeral.
The introduction of Buddhism in Japan during the Kofun period coincided with the rule of the Yamato clan, leading to a religious and political power struggle involving various clans. Despite resistance from some clans that favored traditional Shinto practices, the Soga clan supported the adoption of Buddhism, which later became intertwined with the national identity and statecraft. Over time, both Shintoism and Buddhism were practiced harmoniously, marking a unique feature of Japan's religious landscape.