Heian Period (794–1185) Lotus Sutra, Heian period (794–1185), 12th century Japan Gold on indigo-dyed paper The Lotus Sutra, promulgated in India around the early part of the third century A.D., is believed to be the final teaching of Shakyamuni at Vulture Peak. It was part of Buddhist worship in Japan as early as the sixth century and became the most popular sutra. The Lotus Sutra emphasize..