After patent infringement lawsuits in Australia, South Korea and Germany, Apple has now sued Samsung in Japan on similar grounds. It accuses Samsung of violating Apple's iPhone and iPad-related patents with its Samsung Galaxy series of smartphones and tablets.

Apple is seeking the suspension of sales of Galaxy S and Galaxy S II smartphones as well as Samsung's tablet, the Galaxy Tab 7, in Japan. Based on its success in Europe and Australia, Apple is hopeful the judge will once again side with Apple.

In addition to the sales ban, Apple is also seeking 100 million yen ($1.3 million) in damages. According to Kyodo news agency, the first hearing was on Wednesday, but a spokesperson for the Tokyo District Court declined to comment on the case.

Also, check out our gallery comparing the two companies’ products below.

Apple and Samsung Compared

[via Reuters]