National Feb. 20, 2012 - 03:30PM JST ( 5 )

TOKYO —

Emperor Akihito, who underwent a successful four-hour heart bypass operation on Saturday, is recovering smoothly at the University of Tokyo hospital and will most likely start full rehabilitation around the middle of the week, the Imperial Household Agency said Monday.

The 78-year-old emperor was transferred from the ICU ward to a private room. He was able to drink water and sat up. He also briefly read a book, the palace said.

The palace said the emperor’s full rehabilitation will start with him sitting and standing up, followed by walking exercises, under the supervision of heart specialists.
If everything goes smoothly, the emperor should be able to leave hospital in about two weeks, his doctors said.

Meanwhile, about 17,000 well-wishers visited the Imperial Palace on Sunday to sign books wishing the emperor well at a special tent set up outside the palace gates. The tent will be open to visitors each day until the emperor leaves the hospital.

During his recuperation, Crown Prince Naruhito will handle official duties such as attending public ceremonies and meeting state guests.

Japan Today