The American legal system served as a prototype for the Japanese when they developed their system in the occupation and reconstruction after World War II. However, the Japanese have now surpassed their American counterparts in the uniqueness, effectiveness, humaneness, and diversity of programs made available to their offenders. The correctional institutions in Japan are also well governed and enjoy the advantages of a society that has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. The proper classification of prisoners, innovative treatment programs, and training of offenders in educational and vocational disciplines have much to do with the successful rehabilitation of prisoners. Although the Japanese and American systems are similar, Japan's system is distinctive for the efficiency of its prison labor, the direct use of the community in corrections, and the total goal of rehabilitation from start to finish. Thus, the United States should examine and learn from the Japanese experience. 130 footnotes.