At the start of the Pacific War, "Maya" was based at Mako Guard District in the Pescadores Islands together with "Atago" and "Takao". "Atago" and "Takao" sailed first to provide support for Japanese landings in the invasion of the northern Philippines. "Maya" remained at Mako in reserve until 8 December, when she sailed as part of Vice Admiral Ibō Takahashi’s IJN 3rd Fleet, together with the cruisers and to support Japanese landing at Vigan and at Lingayen Gulf. On 31 December, she provided cover for the Third Malaya Convoy, and assisted in the seizure of the Natuna islands.