Japan's Nikkei 225 continued its upward trajectory on Monday. By lunchtime, the index was up 2.5 percent.
The broader Topix also got off to a strong start to the week, rising 1.2 percent.
Among Monday's winners was electronics company TDK, up 8 percent. Watchmaker Seiko also had a good day, climbing 6.8 percent.
The Hong Kong-based Hang Seng performed less well, falling 0.3 percent.
China's Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges were closed for a public holiday on Monday. South Korea's stock exchange was also closed.
