Princess Uji

Princess Uji was born the daughter of Emperor Bidatsu and Hirohime.^[1] In 578, she left to become the saiō. However, she likely never worshipped at Mie Prefecture rather worshipping at Mount Miwa.^[1] In 578, the same year as her tenureship began, she was raped by Prince Ikebe (possibly Emperor Yōmei), and was forced to resign.^[1][2] The saiō was meant to remain unmarried and a virgin, and having their virginity taken away could cost a woman the job.^[3] For example, after being accused of having sex and getting pregnant, Princess Wakatarashihime was pressured to resign as saiō, however she ultimately killed herself.^[4][5]

The identity of Princess Uji has been somewhat confused with another daughter of Emperor Bidatsu, and his second wife, Empress Suiko.^[6] Emperor Bidatsu had a daughter with Suiko named Uji no Kaitako [ja] who went on to marry Prince Shōtoku.^[6]