Asian stock indices closed higher due to Friday's better-than-expected U.S. labour market data. The economy in the U.S. added 248,000 jobs in September, exceeding expectations for 216,000 jobs, after 180,000 jobs in August. August's figure was revised up from 142,000 jobs.

The unemployment rate dropped to 5.9% in September from 6.1% in August. That was the lowest level since July 2008. Analysts had expected the unemployment rate to remain unchanged at 6.1%.

Hong Kong stocks were driven by gains of casinos and property developers.

Markets in Shanghai are closed until October 7 for a public holiday.

Indexes on the close:

Nikkei 225 15,890.95 +182.30 +1.16%

Hang Seng 23,315.04 +250.48 +1.09%

Shanghai Composite closed