The Nikkei share average closed 1.62% lower at 27,523.19, marking its biggest drop since July 30. The broader Topix slid 1.61% to 1,924.98 in its sharpest drop since June 21.
The country s worsening coronavirus infections hit shares of travel-related sectors anew, while falling support for Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga raised more concerns about political stability ahead of an election expected later this year.