Gikai was one of several influential groups in Dgen's school and in 1267 Gikai succeeded Ej.
Among this group were Gikai, Gien and Giin, who were to become influential members of Dogen's school. In 1267 Ejo retired as Abbot of Eihei-ji, giving way to Gikai, who was already favored by Dogen. 
