Armed with these funds, life insurance companies have become big players in the Tokyo stock, foreign exchange and real estate markets.

Nonetheless, analysts say, Tokyo stocks are still far more expensive than those in other markets.

But Tokyo stocks made a partial recovery today, closing up 244.73 points, or 1.5 percent, at 17,053.43.

Tokyo stocks closed a tenth of 1 percent lower.

Tokyo stocks rose today, as the Nikkei index closed with a gain of 1.8 percent.

But a number of shops in Tokyo stock a wide variety of kites from all over the country.

Tokyo stocks were lower today in light trading.

The uncertainty over Japan's economy contributed to another plunge in Tokyo stocks.

Tokyo stocks plunged this morning, spurred by the Barings collapse.

Tokyo stocks accelerated their decline today after the Nikkei average tumbled past 23,000, where the market had previously found support.