In Japan, the legal age of adulthood is 20 years old and there is a separate criminal justice system for juveniles under 18. This article explores whether or not a 16 year old can go to jail in Japan, what factors determine the punishment of a 16-year-old offender, and what consequences they may face. Generally, rehabilitation measures are preferred over harsher punishments such as detention centers or prison sentences. Factors taken into consideration when deciding on an appropriate punishment include severity/nature of offense committed, prior criminal record (if any), mental state/capacity at time offense was committed, potential risk posed by offender, victim impact statement etc.