The Japanese, who beat South Korea in the final in Bangkok two years ago, won a thrilling match against 11-time champions China by a single point, 57-56, earlier in the competition.

A similarly tough battle was expected again today, but from the moment Japan stormed ahead in the first period only one result ever seemed likely.

The away side led 44-22 at the halfway point, and they continued to open further daylight thereafter.

Sanae Motokawa racked up an impressive 24 points, while Ramu Tokashiki added 18 and seven rebounds, and was later named player of the tournament.

They will now compete at a first Olympic Games since Athens 2004, when they came fifth in Group A after only managing to win one match against Nigeria. 

After losing their semi-final to the Chinese, 2007 winners South Korea secured the final position on the podium after overcoming Taiwan 52-45 in the third-place playoff which preceded today's final.

China and South Korea can each still qualify for Rio and will now compete at next year's FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament, the location for which is yet to be confirmed.

As well as being awarded Tissot Most Valuable Player, Tokashiki, who averaged 11.4 points and six rebounds, was named in a five-strong All-Star team alongside compatriot Asami Yoshida, the captain of the gold medal winning side.

They were joined by Chinese duo Ting Shao and Mengran Sun, while Danbi Kim was selected to represent the South Korean bronze medallists.

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