China's CSI 500 index futures (IC) main contract extended intraday gains to 2.00%, trading at 6,778.4 points.

China A-share culture and media sector rallied; Fantuo Shuchuang hit the daily limit-up, while Wireless Media, Fengyuzhu and Yaowang Technology also advanced.

On Oct. 19 Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing lodged stern representations and strong protests with Tokyo over actions relating to Yasukuni Shrine. Mao called Yasukuni a symbol of Japanese militarism that enshrines 14 Class‑A war criminals, accused Japanese leaders of continued shrine visits that reflect entrenched historical revisionism and an intent to absolve war criminals, whitewash aggression and pave the way for remilitarization, and demanded Japan acknowledge history, reflect on wartime crimes and stop backsliding — urging concrete steps to reassure Asian neighbors and the international community on the 80th anniversary of the Tokyo trials.