Japan's broad Topix index, which had jumped more than 5 per cent over the previous two sessions to reach an all-time high, ...

A decline in utility costs helped slow the overall gauge, but households are still coping with higher living costs overall.

By Kevin Buckland TOKYO (Reuters) -Asian shares eased from highs on Friday, with Japanese markets retreating from a record peak, as investors locked in profits ahead of a crucial week that includes U.