It is believed that his older brother, Harukage NAGAO, took over the reigns of the family in 1536 and that Torachiyo became a disciple of Rinsen-ji Temple (Joetsu City) in the town around the castle and received teachings from the chief priest Koiku TENSHITSU.
天文(元号)5年（1536年）に兄の長尾晴景が家督を継ぎ、虎千代は城下の林泉寺(上越市)に入門して住職の天室光育の教えを受けたとされる。