In Tokyo on Wednesdsay, equities markets closed higher again on another group of positive quarterly reports.

The Nikkei 225 closed 0.35 percent higher at 11,981.80, its highest closing level in 15 months, after having peaked briefly above the 12,000 level for the first time in over a year. The Topix index ended the day up 0.2 percent at 1,212.02.

Gains were limited, however, by continuing uncertainty over what will happen if the upper house of parliament does not approve privatization of the post office in a vote schedule for Friday.

Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi has threatened to call elections if the legislation, which he backs, is not approved.

Among those companies issuing quarterly reports was car and motorcycle manufacturer Suzuki, which gained 3.5 percent to ¥1,874 after it reported a higher than expected 4.6 percent gain in quarterly operating profits.

Amano, which makes time recording equipment, saw the value of its shares soar by 12.6 percent to ¥1,614 after it said that it more than doubled its operating profit in the most recent quarter. In response, Amano revised its forecast for the half-year ending in September.

Drugmaker Astellas added 5.3 percent to close at ¥3,790 on a 13 percent rise in quarterly profits due to strong sales.