In 1028, after Michinaga died, Ryoen at last became a Gon no Risshi (a provisional rank in the lowest managerial position), and the following year became betto (chief priest) of Tohoku-in subtemple at Hosho-ji Temple.
道長没後の長元元年（1028年）に漸く権律師となり、翌年法性寺東北院別当となる。