Per the Mainichi Daily News :
His Imperial Majesty Emperor Akihito will enter University of Tokyo Hospital on Friday morning to prepare to undergo heart bypass surgery the following day, the Imperial Household Agency said Wednesday.
The Emperor will conduct his official duties, including meeting with foreign ambassadors to Japan, until Thursday, according to the agency.
Saturday’s surgery, which will be conducted by a team of doctors from University of Tokyo Hospital and Juntendo University Hospital, is likely to take about five hours, and Emperor Akihito is expected to be able to leave hospital in about two weeks if there are no complications.
During the Emperor’s hospitalization, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Naruhito will carry out his father’s state duties.
Photo courtesy of Daylife/AP
I find the relationship between the royals and the imperial household agency fascinating and a tad disturbing. Am I missing something?
In my opinion, the IHA is extremely — how can I say this delicately — firm. 🙂