At the beginning of the 21st century, Buddhism in Japan can be divided into three main branches: Pure Land Buddhism, Nichiren Buddhism and Zen Buddhism. Buddhism took root in Japan in the 6th century. In the Edo period, Buddhism gained its status as a state religion and exerted an influence on many aspects of pre-modern society. It was an important source of culture, especially for theater and entertainment. Rakugo eg, a comic storytelling. Also Koodan, another form of storytelling, has its origin in the propagation of Buddhism to the common man. Traditional oral literature is believed to have evolved from the preaching of sutras and Buddha's teachings to the common people. In the Edo period, storytelling changed from a traditional Buddhist theme into a distinct art form. In this sense, Buddhism was the source of culture in the Edo era. After World War II in Asia, Buddhism in Japan was dominated by reform efforts and adaptation to modern times. New popular movements such as the Soka Gakkai, Kai Risshō Kōsei Kai and Nipponzan-Myōhōji-Daisanga emerged and there was an increasing interest in Buddhism in the country.