Data on prison admissions in both Japan and the United States show that a greater proportion of women than men are imprisoned for homicide, larceny and fraud, and arson. Except for homicide, women trail men in crimes against persons and other violent crimes. The imprisonment rate in Japan for both men and women is lower than in the United States; however, there is a trend toward the increased representation of women in the prisons of both countries. This has led to overcrowding in Japan's women's prisons. This is due largely to an increase in prison admissions for stimulant-drug offenses. The Japanese women's prisons are unique in that they receive all kinds of adult females regardless of classifications. The types of inmates are distinguished in housing assignments within the prison. Intensive industrial work is a feature of Japanese women's prisons, and their products are similar to those produced by the male prisons. Overall, this comparative analysis indicates that Japan's women inmates, staff members, and the Correctional Bureau are influenced by the unique features of Japan's culture and social structure. 8 notes, 3 tables, and 33 references