The most recent statistics in Japan indicate that its crime and delinquency rate is remarkably low compared to that of the U.S. The predominant philosophy behind the Japanese criminal sentence is 'how to best benefit the society', rather than 'how to best benefit the criminal', per se. Sentencing policy is heavily geared toward retribution, isolation and punishment, rather than deterrence and rehabilitation. The low crime rate in Japan may be due to the following factors: (1) a highly organized and efficient police system; (2) a highly efficient court system; and (3) strict gun control. Most important is the willingness of the Japanese people to respect and support the justice system and work actively to aid the capture of the criminal. The Japanese culture prides itself in interdependence, responsibility, and honor. Unlike the American culture, the notion of honor is far more important than personal wealth. However, there is one area in which Japanese crime is on the increase: that of juvenile crime, particularly of shoplifting and auto theft in Tokyo. Juveniles may increasingly come to feel that money rather than personal interdependence is the key to social status and satisfaction. 12 references.