Final answer:
Buddhism was introduced to Japan around 538 AD through interactions with Korea, solidifying its presence during the reign of Empress Suiko and under the guidance of Prince Shotoku. It coexisted with Shintoism, the indigenous religion, influencing Japan's cultural development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The religion introduced to Japan by gifts from a Korean king to Emperor Kimmei around 538 AD was Buddhism:
In the mid-sixth century, cultural exchanges between Korea and Japan facilitated the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. While Shintoism was the indigenous religion, with deities such as Amaterasu, the sun goddess in Shinto belief, Buddhism began to establish a significant presence during the Kofun period under the influence of the Soga clan, who were in favor of the new religion.
Despite initial resistance from traditionalists such as the Nakatomi and Mononobe clans, it gained the royal sanction, eventually becoming a state religion during Empress Suiko's reign, under the advice of her nephew, Prince Shotoku. Dual religious traditions came to characterize Japanese spiritual life, with both Shintoism and Buddhism being practiced side by side. These religious beliefs deeply influenced the development of Japan's cultural heritage.