RAPAPORT... Retail sales across Japan in November rose 0.9 percent to JPY692.5 billion ($6.2 billion,) which was the first increase in three months, according to the Japan Department Stores Association.

The category for jewelry sales, which included artwork and precious metals, fell 5.1 percent to JPY33.25 billion ($296 million.)

Retail sales across Tokyo rose 1.7 percent to JPY174.54 billion ($1.5 billion.)