Japan's Emperor Akihito discharged from hospital

Japan's Emperor Akihito was discharged from University of Tokyo Hospital on Sunday after undergoing heart bypass surgery and rehabilitation, the Imperial Household Agency said. After undergoing surgery for angina on Feb. 18, the 78-year-old emperor went through cardiac rehabilitation programs, such as stair-walking and using exercise equipment, according to Japan's (Kyodo) News Agency. His doctors said the emperor needs one week or so of rest before returning to official duties. But Imperial Household Agency officials said he strongly hopes to attend a government-hosted memorial service on March 11 in Tokyo to commemorate the victims of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in eastern Japan.