The 1956-1958 Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition was Japan's first major scientific mission to Antarctica. It aimed to conduct research on the continent's geography, climate, and wildlife, contributing to the understanding of the Antarctic environment. The expedition was part of a broader international effort to explore and study Antarctica during the mid-20th century. Led by Dr. Toshio Sakuya, the expedition established the first Japanese research station, known as Showa Station, on the coast of East Antarctica. The team conducted various scientific studies, including meteorology and biology, and collected valuable data that helped lay the groundwork for future Antarctic research by Japan and other nations.