Butsuzo (images of the buhda) were introduced into Japan in about 540
A.D. when Buddhism came to that country via the silk road, China, and
Korea.
Later, during the rule of Shotoku-Taishi, Buddhism began to spread out
from Nara.  Later in about 607 A.D. Nara Horyu-ji Temple (pictured
above), which became a World Heratage Site, was built.  Since then, many
wonderful butsuzo have been made along with temples.

Butsuzo are divided into four main categories.
1.  Nyorai (Buddha) 

This refers to men who gained enlightenment and the
figure of Shaka (Sakyamuni).  The first images made of the buhda were
nyorai.  Nyorai are typified by the Daibutsu (Giant Buddha) in Nara
Todai-ji Temple, Amida Nyorai (Amitabha), Dainichi Nyorai
(Mahavairocana).
2.  Bosatsu (bodhisattva)  

These are men who are in the stage of
training before gaining enlightenment, and it means one who seeks
enlightenment.  A few examples are Kanzeon Bosatsu (Seikannon), Miroku
Bosatsu (Maitreya), Monju Bosatsu (Majusri), Nikkou Gekkou Bosatsu
(Suryaprabha).
3.  Myoo

These are hotoke (figures of buddha) of esoteric buddhism
which protect buddhism from outside enemies and make them surrender.  A
few examples are Fudo Myoo (Acalanatha), Kujaku Myoo, Aizen Myoo
(Ragaraja).
4.  Ten-bu  

These are the gods who converted to Budhism by learning the
teachings of Shaka.  They stand guard over the nyorai and bosatsu.
Among the ten-bu are Nio (Vajradhara), Bon Ten (Brahman), Taishaku Ten
(Indira), Shi Tenno (Four Heavenly Kings), Juni Jinsho (Twelve Deva
Guardians), and many others.
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