Part of the Hikawa Maru-class ocean liners consisting of the Hikawa Maru, Hiye Maru I (renamed 1938 Hie Maru) and Heian Maru. Laid down as Hiye Maru I by Yokohama Dock Company for account of Nippon Yusen (NYK) on 25 May 1929, launched on 12 February 1930, completed on 31 July 1930, maiden voyage begun on 18 December 1930, renamed Hie Maru in 1930, in service as a transport in the Japanese navy on 26 November 1941, submarine tender since 15 February 1942 and again transport on 1 October 1943 and sunk by the American submarine USSS Drum south west of Truk on 17 November 1943.
Gross register tonnage 11.621 tons and as dimensions 163,3 (over all) x 20,1 x 12,5 metres or 535.9 x 65.11 x 41.0 feet. The machinery consisted of 2 B&W-Ikegai diesels supplying via 2 shafts 13.122bhp resulting in a speed of 18,5 knots. Armament as a submarine tender 4-15cm/5.9” cal 50 41st Year Type naval guns and 4-1,3cm anti aircraft guns.
