Éditions spéciales · Flag ID ·

Japan Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — Japan

ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION (1910)

The four stars represent the four cardinal points forming a compass rose, guiding explorers to their destination.

The stars also refer to the Southern Cross, a constellation associated with travel in the southern hemisphere.

History of the flag

ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION (1910)

The flag of the Japanese Imperial Antarctic Expedition dates back to 1910. It was authorized by Emperor Meiji and presented to the expedition leader, Nobu Shirase.

This flag became the first flag to fly in Antarctica.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • The blue background evokes the Southern Ocean.

Back to Flags