Japan stocks rise on earnings optimism

TOKYO, Apr 14 (Reuters) The Nikkei average rose 0.3 percent on Friday, supported by expectations for healthy earnings at major firms such as Toyota Motor Corp., ahead of the reporting season that starts later this month.

The Nikkei was up 51.10 points at 17,250.25 as of 0004 GMT, adding to a 0.21 percent rise the previous day.

The TOPIX index was up 0.26 percent at 1,748.23.

REUTERS DH BD0541