Japan stocks extend advance as Sony, exporters gain

(Updates to opening)

TOKYO, Dec 26 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks extended gains on Wednesday, helped by a softening yen and relatively solid U.S. holiday spending, particularly benefiting exporters such as Sony Corp (6758.T).

As of 0001 GMT, the benchmark Nikkei average .N225 was up 0.4 percent or 61.37 points at 15,613.96. It had finished Tuesday up 1.9 percent at 15,552.59, the highest close since Dec. 12.

The broader TOPIX index added 0.3 percent or 4.71 points to 1,500.74.

The U.S. stock market rallied on Monday led by financial companies. It was closed on Tuesday for Christmas. (Reporting by Aiko Hayashi)