Their design improved on previous Japanese classes by being larger to obtain better seaworthiness with greater torpedo stowage.

Based on the preceding Ōshio, the Asashio class were of similar design but with a different shaped bow and improved sonar.

They are considered the first fleet submarines constructed for Japan in the post-World War II era.

[3] The Asashio class were propelled by two propellers powered by a diesel-electric system comprising two Kawasaki diesel engines creating 2,900 brake horsepower (2,200 kW) and two electric motors creating 6,300 shaft horsepower (4,700 kW).

[2] Moore[2] and Gardiner, Chumbley and Budzbon[1] state that the stern tubes were for "swim-out" torpedoes with Gardiner, Chumbley and Budzbon adding they were for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and that the forward tubes were intended for US Mark 54 torpedoes.