A recently opened prison here takes a new approach to correctional rehabilitation by emphasizing inmates' preparation for reintegration into society after their release, with the goal of reducing their chances of becoming repeat offenders.
Inmates at the Harima Rehabilitation Program Center lead an ordered life. The structure of each day is strictly regimented, with little opportunity to enjoy free time.
They wake at 6:30 a.m., and have a little over an hour to wash and eat before they must begin work. After taking their evening meal at 5 p.m., inmates have a brief time to themselves before lights out at 9 p.m.
While most correctional facilities offer some kind of voluntary personal development program twice a month, Harima's education sessions are held every week, and attendance by all inmates is compulsory.

Full story - Daily Yomiuri (http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20080410TDY16001.htm)

for anyone who is interested - http://www.harima-rpc.go.jp/eng/index.html

Thanks for the link!