Recommissioned on 19 November 1878, "Richmond"'s next duty was as flagship of the Asiatic Fleet. Departing Norfolk 11 January 1879, "Richmond" passed into the Mediterranean and through the Suez Canal, hoisting the flag of Rear Admiral Thomas H. Patterson at Yokohama on 4 July 1879. For four years "Richmond" cruised among the principal ports of China, Japan, and the Philippines, serving as flagship until 19 December 1883 when "Trenton" relieved her. While at Shanghai on 17 November 1879, Landsman Thomas Mitchell rescued a shipmate from drowning, for which he was later awarded the Medal of Honor. Receiving a new crew at Panama in September 1880, "Richmond" remained on station until departing Hong Kong for the United States on 9 April 1884. Again transiting the Suez Canal, "Richmond" reached New York on 22 August and was decommissioned for repairs.