In 872, Kangen entered the priesthood and received the religious precepts under Shinga, studied the doctrines of Sanron sect and Shingon Esoteric Buddhism under Shobo and went through Kanjo (the ceremony to be the successor) in 895.
貞観(日本)14年（872年）真雅について出家・受戒し、聖宝より三論宗・真言密教の教学を学んで、寛平7年（895年）に灌頂を受けた。