Tokyo stocks opened essentially flat on Thursday as the Dow Jones Industrial Average closing higher overnight lifting spirits were canceled out by the yen's strength following the dollar's retreat.

As of 9:15 a.m., the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average shed 15.51 points, or 0.08 percent, from Wednesday to 19,868.01.

The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, edged down 0.83 point, or 0.05 percent, to 1,590.94.

Rubber product and nonferrous metal issues led those that declined the most in early trade. Air transportation and construction issues comprised early notable gainers.