The Japanese Antarctic Expedition refers to a series of scientific missions conducted by Japan in Antarctica, beginning in the 1950s. These expeditions aimed to explore the continent's geography, climate, and ecosystems, contributing valuable data to global scientific research. The first major expedition, known as the 1956-1958 Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition, established Japan's presence in Antarctica and led to the creation of the Showa Station. Over the years, subsequent expeditions have focused on various research areas, including glaciology, biology, and meteorology. The Japanese National Institute of Polar Research oversees these missions, ensuring that Japan remains an active participant in international Antarctic research efforts.