Japan stocks extend gains, led by exporters on yen

(Updates to midsession)

TOKYO, Dec 26 (Reuters) - Japanese stocks rose on Wednesday, led higher by automakers such as Toyota Motor Corp (7203.T: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) on a softening yen, while relatively solid U.S. holiday spending benefited high-tech exporters.

The benchmark Nikkei average .N225 ended the morning session up 0.2 percent or 31.08 points at 15,583.67. It finished Tuesday up 1.9 percent at 15,552.59, the highest close since Dec. 12.

The broader TOPIX index added 0.4 percent or 5.23 points to 1,501.26.

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