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Japan's First Empress Regnant — Empress Suiko and the Reforms with Prince Shotoku

Empress Suiko, who ascended in 593, is considered Japan's first true reigning empress. Appointing her nephew Prince Shotoku as regent, she advanced the reforms of the Asuka period — the twelve cap-ranks, the Seventeen-Article Constitution, and missions to Sui China — making Buddhism the foundation of the state.

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Empress Suiko, who ascended in 593, is considered Japan’s first true reigning empress. She appointed her nephew Prince Shotoku as regent, and together with Soga no Umako they advanced major reforms: the twelve cap-ranks (603), the Seventeen-Article Constitution (604), and missions to Sui China. Making Buddhism the foundation of the state, they sparked the Asuka culture — including Horyuji and Shitennoji temples.

Kondo of Horyuji, Nara — the world's oldest wooden building, built by Prince Shotoku; symbol of the Asuka culture that flourished under Empress Suiko

Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

Horyuji Shaka Triad — a treasure of Asuka Buddhist sculpture from the era of Empress Suiko and Prince Shotoku

Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

Shitennoji, Osaka — one of the first official temples of Japanese Buddhism, built by Prince Shotoku, conveying the Buddhist revival of Suiko's era

Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

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Key Figures

Empress Suiko