Background
Gikai was born on February 18, 1219 in a rural area of Echizen Province called Inazu (Fukui Prefecture). His given name was Tettsū. His family was part of the powerful Fujiwara clan, specifically claiming descent from the famous General Fujiwara no Toshihito.
Education
He began his Buddhist life as a student of the Darumashū's Ekan, a student of Kakuan He became a monk at the age of twelve at a Darumashū temple called Hajaku-ji, which was located close to the future site of Sōtō Zen's main temple, Eihei-ji. He was also a disciple of Dōgen, the founder of the Soto Sect in Japan. Gikai visited China (Sung Dynasty) for further study.
Career
After returning home from China, he became the third chief priest of the Eiheiji Temple. He retired after six years in the Eiheiji and founded the Daijoji Temple to spread Dogen's teachings. Gikai had many distinguished disciples including Keizan Shokin.