Japan is not all just about anime and gadgets, shrines and nature. For a unique experience, get a taste of life in Japan's maximum security prison.

Abashiri Prison Museum

{{{shudder}}}

The "punishment chamber?"

The Japanese have been known to be very cruel during war. I can only imagine the punishments doled out.

But this is a tourist spot now. What is the current condition of the penal system in Japan?

It's pretty westernized now... I've got no evidence, but I think it's due to the democractic reforms made after World War II under General MacArthur.

Some pix inside the museum. Too bad I can only post 2 pix per post.



The prison food lunch set I tried. Sure looks appetizing, huh?

Some pix of a present-day Abashiri Prison cell... Looks more like an Abashiri Dormitory Room to me, though.

Wow. Clean and organized. It's funny how these prisons allow for coat hangers and books...and chopsticks. All of those items would be considered dangerous weapons here in the US!

Thanks for the pix!

And the okazu looks oishii!

No wonder some people will commit crimes to get into prison rather than live on the streets, jobless and homeless.

LOL