They were primarily deployed for logistic support but were also used to carry heavy construction equipment such as trenchers.

Ships in the class were powered by two Kawasaki-MAN V8V 22/30 AMTL diesel engines turning two shafts rated at 3,300 kilowatts (4,400 bhp).

The LCVPs were slung under davits and a traveling gantry crane with folding rails that could be extended over the side handled the two LCMs positioned on the foredeck.

The Atsumi class were armed with twin-mounted 40 mm (1.6 in) guns in a single turret placed each at the bow and stern.

The first of the class, Atsumi entered service in 1972 with the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), with Motobu following in 1973 and Nemuro in 1977.