In ancient Japan, varied and important religious rituals emerged which were tied to virginity and defloration.
For example, virginity was linked to certain religious practices associated with fertility. The harvest ceremonies centered around a virgin who was selected from among the daughters of distinguished families.
In her capacity as "sakazuko" (the girl who makes sake), she was responsible for spitting into the sweet rice liquor to initiate fermentation. At each harvest season she also performed the first ritual gathering and threshing of the rice.
