Since the Otori class was designed and built with the harsh lessons learned from the Tomozuru and Fourth Fleet incidents,[4] Hiyodori benefited from having both a considerably powerful armament and far greater stability.

[4] The stability was provided with a lower bridge level, less armament and protection (in the case of gun shields) and a keel ballast.

[2] Hiyodori was first assigned to the 15th Escort Squadron of the Second China Expeditionary Fleet following its completion on 20 December 1936,[5][6] and later taking part in the Second Sino-Japanese War.

[6] Following the successful invasion of Hong Kong, Hiyodori patrolled the Chinese coast from December 1941 to August 1942.

[6] On 17 November 1944, Hiyodori was sunk by USS Gunnel 140 miles (230 km) east northeast of Cape Tourane.