Japan's benchmark Nikkei stock index ended down over 3 percent on Tuesday, weighed down by concerns over the current conflict in the Middle East and surging oil prices.

The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average ended down 1,778.19 points, or 3.06 percent, from Monday at 56,279.05.

The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 126.25 points, or 3.24 percent, lower at 3,772.17.

On the stock market, investors offloaded stocks amid uncertainty over a resolution to the conflict, with the Strait of Hormuz effectively shut down. At the same time, sentiment was dapened by deepening concern over the economic impact of surging oil prices, analysts said.