Asia stock markets climb as investors mull Japan data

Market sentiment was relatively upbeat as investors found some solace in the latest economic data from Japan, which showed factory output and consumer spending data improved in April, though they remained weak.

Investors are also watching for the latest monthly manufacturing index for China, due Wednesday, and an OPEC meeting Thursday as they seek to gauge the world economic outlook.

ANALYST'S INSIGHT: "The focus will be on U.S. data tonight, as U.S. markets return from Memorial Day," Bernard Aw of IG said in a commentary, noting concern over whether the Fed will push ahead with rate hikes as recently suggested by Fed chair Janet Yellen.

Chinese stocks jumped on speculation that global stock benchmark provider MSCI may include yuan-denominated shares in its indices for the first time.