Fuchū Prison in Tokyo, characterized by its glass frontage and portico, houses 1,700 inmates, including about one-third linked to the yakuza crime syndicates.

One of the largest penal institutions in Japan, it has seen a rise in elderly inmates, who comprise 22% of the prison population, reflecting Japan's demographic trends.

Notable inmates include Kenichi Shinoda, head of the Yamaguchi-gumi syndicate, and Michael Taylor, who aided Carlos Ghosn’s escape.

The prison maintains strict regulations based on Japan’s 1908 penal code, with provisions for elder care, chronic illness treatment, and limited communication among inmates.

Despite the harsh conditions, officials highlight the absence of overcrowding, drug abuse, and violence commonly seen in other prisons.

Rehabilitation efforts include assigning younger inmates to assist the elderly and offering specialized occupational therapy.

Many older inmates, lacking external support, find post-incarceration life challenging, with some even preferring life within the prison walls.