The Japanese economy showed an annualised growth of 2.3 percent in the second quarter of this year, the first rise for a over 12 months. The growth is less than the 3.7 percent forecast by the government of Japan, the world's second biggest economy. This was mostly down to disappointing company investments.

Economists are cautious about the recovery, which is being driven by increased exports, pointing out that domestic consumption is lagging behind. Many Japanese lost their jobs during the 12 months of recession and unemployment is at a record high.

photo: flickr/tenaciousme