H.I.J.M.S. Katori on her Return From England With the Crown Prince

Despite Admiralty reservations, a Civil Aviation Mission was sent to Japan in September 1921. The Master of Sempill led the mission of 30 instructors and further support staff.

Crown Prince Hirohito made an official visit to Britain and other countries in 1921, the first by a Japanese prince. When his father died in 1926 he succeeded him as Emperor.