A host of Asian performing artists have staged a three-hour charity concert in Hong Kong to raise funds for victims of Japan's earthquake and tsunami.

"Rush Hour" star Jackie Chan opened the program by leading dozens of singers and the audience in a moment of silence for the casualties in Japan, and for the victims of recent earthquakes elsewhere - in China, New Zealand and Myanmar.

Japanese stars were also in attendance. Proceeds from Friday's concert are to go to the Salvation Army.

Ticket holders were asked to donate at least 3 US dollars each. Organisers also set up a phone bank for the televised show. They received pledges of nearly 2.4 million US dollars by the time the show ended.