A Saiō (斎王, Saiō) was an unmarried female relative of the Japanese emperor, sent to Ise to serve at Ise Grand Shrine from the late 7th century until the 14th century. The Saiō's residence, Saikū (斎宮), was approximately 10km north-west of the shrine. The remains of Saikū are situated in the town of Meiwa, Mie, Japan.