Maizuru Naval District
After commissioning, "Aotaka" was assigned to the Maizuru Naval District, but was soon reassigned to become flagship of the First Second Base Force of the IJN 2nd Fleet. On March 23, 1941, she was assigned to patrols of the central China coastline. On April 10, 1941, "Aotaka" was reassigned to the IJN 3rd Fleet, and continued its deployment on the China coast through the end of November.