HIGH HOPE Project
2025-06-24 08:06:08

Connecting Society with Prison: The First Step of HIGH HOPE Project at Fuchu Prison

Bridging the Gap Between Prison and Society: A Transformative Initiative



The initiative led by ICHI Inc., spearheaded by CEO Kazuto Nakama, has taken a significant stride in reducing juvenile crime through a unique project held on June 18 and 19, 2025, at Fuchu Prison in Tokyo. Aimed at creating awareness about rehabilitation and recidivism prevention, this project was realized through a crowdfunding campaign that garnered an impressive total of ¥11,142,000, exceeding its goal with a participation rate of 111%. A total of 447 supporters contributed to the campaign, which featured original T-shirts produced within the prison as part of its rewards. The event successfully attracted 36 participants who explored the inner workings of the prison, witnessing firsthand the lives of inmates and engaging with prison staff.

The Importance of Awareness in Social Change



The question, "Have you ever been to prison?" is unlikely to prompt affirmative responses from many individuals. It is crucial, however, to acknowledge that gaining knowledge and understanding is the first step toward enacting social change. Hence, with the cooperation of Fuchu Prison, ICHI Inc. introduced original T-shirts made by inmates as incentives for the crowdfunding initiative, thus facilitating the exploration of the prison environment.

The crowdfunding campaign closed on June 10, 2025, with 121 contributions directly tied to the prison-made T-shirts. More than merely fabric, these T-shirts symbolize hope and the potential for transformation.

Experiencing Life Inside Prison



During the guided visit, participants walked through the living quarters and workspaces within Fuchu Prison, allowing them to grasp how inmates spend their days. Conversations with prison staff provided deeper insights into the experiences of those incarcerated, creating a dialogue between participants to share their reflections and realizations during the event.

Feedback from attendees underscored the power of knowledge in shift perceptions. Many highlighted how previously, they had never considered prisons or juvenile facilities in their daily lives. After the experience, they felt a renewed interest, courtesy of the meaningful interactions and stories shared by the staff.

One participant remarked, "Before today, I never even thought about prisons during my daily life. However, after seeing the prison and listening to the staff’s thoughts, I have developed an interest in these issues."

Another shared, "Visiting the facility made it clear that preventing recidivism requires involvement from private enterprises to create meaningful societal change."

Furthermore, the dialogue led participants to recognize the significant disconnect that exists between the prison system and society. One attendee stated, "What happens inside prison is woefully misunderstood outside it, and there is a pressing need for collaboration between the correctional system and communities."

Development of Original T-Shirts: A Blend of Creativity and Rehabilitation



The original T-shirt, completed after two years of development with Haikem Co., is crafted from eco-friendly polylactic acid made from corn. Designers like Yuzuko Takeda collaborated in the creative process, while inmates faced the challenges of difficult sewing techniques through iterations of prototypes.

This remarkable endeavor is rooted in the motto of "HIGH HOPE," featuring a tag with this emblem on the shirt sleeve, effectively communicating its creation as “Made in Prison.”

Promoting Open Innovation for Rehabilitation



ICHI Inc. is committed to continuing its efforts to foster open innovation in the arena of recidivism prevention and rehabilitation. Through partnerships with various sectors—companies, local governments, social welfare groups, and educational institutions—it aims to establish creative programs within juvenile facilities and prisons, while also providing post-release support.

The mission resonates with those desiring to bridge the gap between societal perception and the realities of incarceration. With an invitation for collaboration, ICHI Inc. encourages individuals and organizations passionate about creating a society where everyone has a chance to start anew to reach out.

ICHI Inc. seeks partners who share their vision of reducing recidivism and are keen on brainstorming strategies to that end.

For more information on how to get involved, visit ICHI Recruitment Page.

Company Overview



ICHI Inc.
  • - CEO: Kazuto Nakama
  • - Address: 643-6, Shokokujimonzencho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto, 602-0898
  • - Established: November 2023
  • - Official Website: HIGH HOPE


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