Japan's Nikkei index closed higher for a third straight day on Wednesday, tracking Wall Street to break above 38,000 points as traders continued to snap up technology-related stocks.
The Nikkei index ended the session up 2.4% at 38,460.08 points, maintaining the 38,000-point range until the close for the first time in just over a week.
The broader Topix index rose 1.7% to 2,710.73 points.
From record levels to decline
Japanese stocks have had a volatile month since the index hit a record high of 41,087.75 points at the end of March.
It fell to 36733.06 last week due to factors such as geopolitical concerns and profit taking.
However, sentiment turned back towards risk assets as fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East eased and US stocks closed higher overnight after earnings.
Positive from major companies, giving Nikkei a boost.
Company stocks are rising and falling
Toyota shares rose 3.1% and other export-related stocks were strong as the dollar traded near a 34-year high against the Japanese currency.
Chip-related stocks saw some of the biggest gains, with Tokyo Electron jumping 7.1%.
