Tokyo's main stock market index closed at its highest level in more than two decades on Wednesday as optimism spread across global markets.
The Nikkei 225 added 0.3%, or 57.7 points, to end at 20,881.2.
It was the best finish for the index since 1996 and follows fresh record highs on Wall Street overnight.
A strengthening Japanese economy, solid corporate results and upbeat mood on US markets have helped spur gains.
- Source: BBC News
