The Katori-class cruiser was a series of light cruisers built for the Imperial Japanese Navy during the early 20th century. Designed primarily for training and scouting, these ships were named after the Katori Shrine in Japan. The class included two ships, the Katori and the Kashima, which were launched in the 1910s and served through World War II. These cruisers featured a displacement of around 5,000 tons and were equipped with a mix of artillery and torpedoes. Their design emphasized speed and maneuverability, making them suitable for various naval operations, including reconnaissance and fleet support.