The temple became a Monzeki Temple (a temple served by chief priests descended from the imperial family or regent family) during the time of 7th head priest Shingon (1151-1236), who also served as the administrator of To-ji Temple and steward of Todai-ji Temple, as a result of a letter sent by Emperor Gohorikawa in 1229.
東寺長者や東大寺別当を務めた7世親厳（1151-1236）の時、寛喜元年（1229年）に後堀河天皇の宣旨（せんじ）により門跡寺院（皇族や摂家出身者が住持として入寺する寺院）となった。