For Shizuka Tobe, 68, Arakawa Ryo (Arakawa Dorm), a private-run facility supporting ex-convicts, is a place that accepts her for who she is and understands her.
"At first, (staff) were harsh and scary, but they became people with whom I could talk about anything," said Tobe, who asked to use a fictitious name. "I need that kind of people."
Arakawa Ryo and similar facilities offer accommodations, meals and support in finding jobs for ex-convicts who don't have a place to go after they leave prison. Most leave the facility after several months when they find a job. But some continue to stop by for advice, or simply to chat.