About Japan's Correctional System
Japan's correctional system is managed by the Correction Bureau Ministry of Justice. For inmate searches, use the official contacts listed below or contact the facility directly using the phone numbers on this page. Where available, the facility listings below include addresses, inmate capacity, and descriptive information.
For US citizens detained in Japan, contact US Embassy Japan at +81 3 3224 5000 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US.
Japan Resources & Legal Services
Key Japan Prison Contacts
| Agency / Contact | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Correction Bureau Ministry of Justice | Japan | +81-3-3580-4111 | Visit Site |
| US Embassy Japan | Japan | +81 3 3224 5000 | Visit Site |
| US State Dept Emergency (from US) | Washington DC | 1-888-407-4747 | Visit Site |
Showing 4 facilities in Japan
Federal
N/A
Osaka's main remand prison. Houses pre-trial detainees from the Osaka judicial district.
Federal
High
Main prison in Hokkaido northern Japan. Houses sentenced male offenders from the northern island.
Federal
High
Japan's largest sentenced prison. Located in Fuchu west of Tokyo. Houses long-term sentenced male offenders. Site of prisoner rehabilitation programmes.
Federal
High
Japan's largest prison and main death row facility. Located in Kosuge district of Tokyo. Houses death row inmates and long-term sentenced prisoners. Executions are carried out in secret with no advance notice given to inmates.
Japan Prison FAQ
Browse the facility listings on this page to find the specific institution, then contact them directly using the phone number listed. For US citizens detained in Japan, contact US Embassy Japan at +81 3 3224 5000 immediately.
Contact US Embassy Japan at +81 3 3224 5000 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US. Consular officers can visit detained Americans, provide lists of local attorneys, and notify family members.
Visitation rules vary significantly by facility and security level in Japan. You will typically need to be on an approved visitor list, present valid government-issued photo ID, and comply with the facility's dress code. Contact the specific facility directly using the phone number listed on this page to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Contact Japan Federation of Bar Associations for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in Japan. The US Embassy can also provide a list of local attorneys. You can also find a criminal lawyer through our directory.
Each Japan facility has its own approved methods for receiving inmate funds. Contact the facility directly using the phone numbers listed on this page for current accepted payment methods, deposit limits, and procedures.