Mainland stocks rose for a third day, led by banks, after the central government signed an agreement with Taiwan to boost financial cooperation. Makers of consumer products fell on speculation recent gains were overdone.

China Construction Bank Corp added 1.8 percent to 6.25 yuan and China CITIC Bank Corp climbed 3.1 percent to 6.90 yuan.

The Shanghai Composite Index gained 7.84, or 0.2 percent, to 3282.89 at the close, its highest level since Aug 6. The measure has rallied 18 percent this quarter, the world's second-best performer, as the economy strengthened and the government pledged to maintain its "moderately loose" monetary policy. The CSI 300 Index added 0.1 percent.