As a little child, Keichu studied under Kaijo of Myoho-ji Temple in Imazato, Ozaka (present-day Osaka City), thereafter being ordained an Ajari (a master of esoteric Buddhism; a high priest) at Mt. Koya.
契沖は、幼くして大阪今里(大阪市)の妙法寺の丰定（かいじょう）に学んだ後、高野山で阿闍梨の位をえる。