U.S. Embassy & Consulates
in Japan

As in the pre-indictment period, bail is virtually unheard of for foreigners. Life in the detention prison is much more regimented than at the local jail. There are numerous rules covering all aspects of behavior, including how one sits in the room.

In order to do anything, e.g. see a doctor, write a letter, purchase snacks, etc., one must submit a written request, called a gansen. The suspects are usually confined to individual cells with little opportunity to talk with other inmates. The most common complaint about life at the detention prison is boredom.

Communication

Inmates at detention prisons are not allowed phone calls, and mail continues to be censored. Visiting hours at the detention prison are strictly limited, with no provision for after-hours access. Detainees are allowed to receive only one visit a day, which is generally limited in duration. The timing of visits may also be affected by the availability of language-qualified prison officials to monitor the meeting. Meetings with the lawyer and the Consul, however, are not monitored.

Clothing, Toiletries, Snacks, Etc.

Visitors are permitted to supply reading material and clothing. Other items, such as soap, snacks, toiletries, etc., must be purchased at the prison shop. Prisoners can purchase items on their own behalf from the prison shop by submitting a gansen. The guards have a list of items available for purchase. Prescription medications should be obtained through the prison doctor.