A survey using a self-report questionnaire was conducted with 769 prisoners who were about to be released on parole or who had completed their full sentences. Most of the inmates thought that the prison regime was firm but fair, but would lead to an increase in selfish behavior and bullying. A significantly higher proportion of prisoners associated with Japanese organized crime thought that relaxing the rules would reduce the stress of prison life. The second article reports on a survey of visitors' impressions of conditions inside Japanese prisons. Japanese visitors were largely satisfied with conditions inside Japanese prisons, although some attention might be given to the amount of space required by prisoners. Figures, table, notes