Staff writer Unlike the common image of mental institutions with tight security and barred windows, the Yowa Hospital in Nerima Ward, Tokyo, looks no different than a general hospital.

Together with its renovated entrance, cafeteria and green courtyard, the hospital's interior showcases efforts made to improve the environment for patients. Still, the hospital admits there is much room for improvement.

"More than anything, I want to give patients more bed space and amenities," said Kimio Moriyama, president of the privately run hospital that currently accommodates around 400 patients.