Within the Sōtō Zen tradition, shikantaza is generally practiced with the eyes open, or at most half‑open, rather than fully closed. The gaze is usually directed downward at a gentle angle, resting on the floor a short distance ahead, without fixing on any particular object. This soft, unfocused gaze allows light and form to be perceived while avoiding both strain and distraction. The eyes are neither tightly focused nor wandering; they simply remain quietly open as part of the overall posture of “just sitting.”

This open‑eyed approach is not a mere detail of technique but expresses something essential about shikantaza. Keeping the eyes open supports wakefulness and clarity, helping to prevent drowsiness, dreaminess, or drifting into fantasy. It also embodies the spirit of not withdrawing from the world or seeking a special inner realm separate from ordinary experience. The practice rests in simple, natural presence, and the posture—including the way the eyes are held—serves that intention.

Some teachers acknowledge that there may be circumstances in which the eyes are briefly closed, such as when visual distractions are overwhelming or when particular physical conditions make open eyes difficult. Even then, this is regarded as an adaptation rather than the standard form of the practice. The usual encouragement is to return to a gently open gaze as soon as it is reasonably possible. In this way, the body, breath, and eyes all participate together in the quiet, unadorned act of just sitting.