Protesters in Japan have demanded the release of a Japanese journalist who was detained while covering demonstrations in Myanmar.

The angry crowd flocked in front of Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo on July 31, calling for the freedom of filmmaker Toru Kubota, 26, who had reportedly flown to Myanmar in July to record a documentary.

The Burmese military said Kubota has been arrested last week for allegedly violating immigration laws and encouraging dissent against the army.

Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Seiji said: 'The Embassy of Japan is urging Myanmar authorities to release him as soon as possible. It will continue to gather information and request his early release.'

Myanmar is suffering ongoing unrest and uprisings from rebel groups following the removal of well-liked leader Aung San Suu Kyi in a military coup last February. Soldiers responded with barbaric force to protests, and have also clamped down on press freedom.