Buddhism on a large scale never appealed to the Chinese historically. If you do a historical study of Buddhism in China it was largely resisted for a very long time. This was mainly because it was diametrically opposed to traditional Chinese culture.
Chinese traditional culture valued hard work and they did not have respect for buddhist monks who would beg for their food.
Chinese traditional culture ate meat like pork and buddhists were not allowed to eat these things.
Chinese traditional culture drank alcohol and buddhists were not allowed to drink alcohol.
Chinese traditional culture valued family and children while buddhists were taught to no marry and not have children.
