Asian stock indices closed mixed after the weaker-than expected China's preliminary HSBC manufacturing purchasing managers' index. China's preliminary HSBC manufacturing purchasing managers' index dropped to 50.3 in August from 51.7 in July, missing expectations for a decline to 51.5.

Japanese shares benefited from the weaker yen. The yen weakened after yesterday's release of FOMC minutes. Investors speculate that the Fed may raise its interest rate sooner than expected.

Indexes on the close:

Nikkei 225 15,586.2 +131.75 +0.85%

Hang Seng 24,994.1 -165.66 -0.66%

Shanghai Composite 2,230.46 -9.75 -0.44%