His father, Nakamaro, was highly trusted by Empress Koken, and in 757, Nakamaro's nominee, later Emperor Junnin, became Crown Prince, and Nakamaro was promoted to Shibinaiso (comparable with Daijin [Minister]).
父の仲麻呂は孝謙天皇の信任厚く、天平宝字元年（757年）仲麻呂の推す淳仁天皇が皇太子になり、紫微内相（大臣に准じる）に進む。