saishu

Japanese priestess

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July 13, 2026

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The saishu is the chief priestess of the Grand Shrine of Ise in Japan, ranking even above the supreme priest. Historically, this position was held by an unmarried princess from the Imperial family, dedicated solely to the shrine's religious ceremonies. The saishu is a specific, high-ranking role within the broader category of shinshoku, who are priests in the Shintō religion. Shinshoku officiate at shrine ceremonies, ensuring a connection between the kami (gods or sacred powers) and worshippers through offerings and blessings. While women can be admitted to the priesthood, the saishu role was traditionally reserved for royalty. Early Japanese religion involved nature worship and shamanism, with female shaman rulers like Himiko mentioned in historical records.12

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…Ise, the supreme priestess, the saishu (“chief of the religious ceremonies”), ranks even above the supreme priest, the dai-gūji. Formerly the post of supreme priestess was always filled by an unmarried princess of the Imperial family. She devoted herself entirely to the religious ceremonies (matsuri, q.v.) of the Ise Shrine.
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…Ise, the supreme priestess, the saishu (“chief of the religious ceremonies”), ranks even above the supreme priest, the dai-gūji. Formerly the post of supreme priestess was always filled by an unmarried princess of the Imperial family. She devoted herself entirely to the religious ceremonies (matsuri, q.v.) of the Ise Shrine.
Read More