Inmates' families surprised during prison tour
A prison officer shows relatives around the cells.
Relatives look at paintings by prisoners.
Ten relatives of inmates at Shanghai Tilanqiao Prison were invited into the prison on Wednesday to have a close look at life behind bars in an annual open day.
For the first time, they had the chance to walk around the cells, the kitchen and activity areas of the prison.
They also watched performances by an artistic troupe of prisoners and an exhibition of paintings, calligraphy and handicrafts, also by the inmates.
During their walk, police officers briefed them on measures that help prisoners amend and develop themselves, such as education on law and opportunities to take part in the art troupe and a poetry society, learn painting and calligraphy, and gain academic degrees through self study.
"It impressed me most that all the inmates here make their beds so tidily as my son never did that at home," said a man, surnamed Chen, whose 35-year-old son is serving a 14-year sentence for embezzlement.
"It means he has become more disciplined and I hope he will continue to behave well after he is released," Chen added.
Relatives watch a performance by prisoners.
A prison officer shows relatives around the kitchen.
