Nikkei 225 adds 0.8% led by retail shares

Japan's Nikkei Stock Average retreated from three day losses on Wednesday lifted by improvement signs in US property markets and renewed speculations for China's stimulus. Nikkei 225 index gained 0.77% or 66.50 points and finished at 8,730.49. Japan Tobacco rallied 3.7% on speculation the higher sales tax may give the cigarette maker an opportunity to raise prices. Retailers also contributed to the index as consumers are expected to hurry their purchases ahead of sales tax. Fast Retailing climbed 1.8%.