Final answer:
Buddhism began to spread in China during the Six Dynasties period (220-589 CE), with significant developments during the Sui and Tang dynasties. The religion became ingrained in Chinese society and culture despite periods of suppression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Buddhism began to penetrate China during a time known as the Six Dynasties period, which lasted from 220-589 CE. Initially, during Han times, Buddhism was seen similarly to Daoism, with the first recorded believer being a Han royal prince who worshiped the Buddha as early as AD 65. The faith's spread accelerated with the establishment of Buddhist communities and translation of texts. Buddhist monks such as Lokaksema played a pivotal role in translating Mahayana Buddhist texts in the 2nd century, making these teachings accessible to the Chinese.
Chinese dynasties like the Sui and Tang greatly influenced the spread and establishment of Buddhism in the region. The Sui dynasty adopted the religion and worked on expanding trade routes, which facilitated the spread of Buddhism. The Tang dynasty saw a more complex relationship with Buddhism, with brief periods of suppression but also significant support at various points, such as the translation efforts following Xuanzang's journey to India.
The Mahayana Buddhism form, including Pure Land and Chan (Zen), found particular resonance during the Tang period. Despite occasional state suppression of Buddhism, such as the persecution under Emperor Wuzong, the religion had deeply rooted itself within Chinese society and culture by these times.