Ryōbu Shinto is a syncretic mix of Shinto and Buddhism that emerged in Japan during the 9th century. It is a unique form of Shinto that combines the indigenous beliefs and practices of Shinto with the philosophical and ritual elements of Buddhism. This syncretic approach has resulted in a distinct form of Shinto that is different from traditional Shinto in several ways.

Firstly, Ryōbu Shinto incorporates the Buddhist concept of the interconnectedness of all things, known as "engi," into its belief system. This concept is not found in traditional Shinto, which focuses more on the worship of kami (spirits or deities) and the reverence of nature. In Ryōbu Shinto, the kami are seen as manifestations of the Buddha, and the natural world is seen as a reflection of the divine.

Secondly, Ryōbu Shinto places a greater emphasis on ritual and ceremony compared to traditional Shinto. This is because Buddhism has a strong ritualistic tradition, and these practices have been incorporated into Ryōbu Shinto. For example, Ryōbu Shinto temples have elaborate rituals and ceremonies that involve chanting, incense burning, and offerings to the kami and Buddha.

Additionally, Ryōbu Shinto has a more complex pantheon of deities compared to traditional Shinto. In traditional Shinto, there are a few main kami that are worshipped, such as Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and Inari, the god of rice. However, in Ryōbu Shinto, there are numerous kami, buddhas, and bodhisattvas that are worshipped, reflecting the syncretic nature of this religion.

Another significant difference between Ryōbu Shinto and traditional Shinto is the use of Buddhist scriptures and texts. In traditional Shinto, there are no written scriptures, and the religion is primarily passed down through oral tradition. However, in Ryōbu Shinto, Buddhist texts and scriptures are used and incorporated into rituals and ceremonies.

Lastly, Ryōbu Shinto also differs from traditional Shinto in its approach to death and the afterlife. Traditional Shinto does not have a defined belief in the afterlife, and death is seen as a natural part of life. In contrast, Ryōbu Shinto has a more developed belief in the afterlife, influenced by Buddhism's teachings on reincarnation and the cycle of rebirth.

In conclusion, Ryōbu Shinto is a unique form of Shinto that has been heavily influenced by Buddhism. It differs from traditional Shinto in its incorporation of Buddhist concepts, emphasis on ritual and ceremony, complex pantheon of deities, use of scriptures, and beliefs about death and the afterlife. This syncretic mix of Shinto and Buddhism has resulted in a rich and diverse religious tradition in Japan.