Tokyo share prices finished slightly higher on profit-taking after a strong two days.

The benchmark 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average closed up 38.03 points or 0.21% at 18,570.84, off its intra-day high of 18,837.01.

On Thusday it had gained 257.99 points, up 1.41%, and on Wednesday, the average closed up 119.68 points, or 0.66%.

The broader Topix index was up 20.62 points at 1,642.67.

Brokers said buying was concentrated in hi-technology, telecoms and bank shares.

They said the broad market came off its highs on profit-taking after recent gains, although banks gained after earnings started to come in from the sector in early afternoon.

DoCoMo, the mobile phone subsidiary of telecom operator NTT, reported profits up 15% as the number of mobile phone users soared.