The Chinese prison system is operated by the Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for overseeing the administration of the country's prisons and detention centers. The Chinese legal system is based on a combination of civil law and socialist law, and the operation of the prison system is governed by a number of laws and regulations.

In general, the Chinese prison system follows a model of "education and transformation," which is designed to reform and rehabilitate prisoners through a combination of hard labor, education, and political indoctrination. Prisons in China are often overcrowded and conditions are generally harsh, with inmates expected to work long hours and follow strict rules.

The Chinese legal system also includes a system of "re-education through labor," which allows for the detention of individuals for up to four years without trial if they are deemed to have committed certain minor offenses. This system has been criticized by human rights groups for its lack of due process and the potential for abuse.

Overall, the Chinese prison system is a complex and controversial topic, and there is a wide range of opinions on its effectiveness and fairness.