南西方面艦隊
From the end of May, "Hokaze" was assigned to northern operations from Ōminato Guard District, escorting the Kiska Invasion transports. In August 1944, "Hokaze" escorted the seaplane tender to Kiska, returning to Yokosuka in October for re-supply. From October, "Hokaze" was assigned to the Southwest Area Fleet, escorting convoys between Moji and Taiwan.