Tokyo: Japanese Empress Emerita Michiko, wife of Emperor Emeritus Akihito and mother of Emperor Naruhito, marked her 91st birthday on Monday. The Empress Emerita, who suffered a fracture to her right thigh bone last October, has made significant strides in her recovery, reaching a condition nearly as robust as before her injury. Her routine now includes supporting the daily life of Emperor Emeritus Akihito, who is also 91 and undergoing cardiac treatment.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Empress Emerita dedicated herself to rehabilitation at the Sento Imperial Residence in Tokyo’s Minato Ward following her hospital discharge. Her commitment enabled her to resume her supportive role for the Emperor Emeritus swiftly. The Empress made frequent visits to the Emperor Emeritus during his hospital stays at the University of Tokyo Hospital in May and July, showcasing her unwavering dedication.
The Empress Emerita continues to stay informed on societal matters by engaging with newspapers, television news, and discussions with aides, as noted by the Imperial Household Agency. Both she and the Emperor Emeritus have offered silent prayers during commemorative events this year, including ceremonies for victims of natural disasters and anniversaries related to World War II.
Marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visited several historic sites, including Iwoto and Okinawa. The Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita reflected on their own visits to these locations 50 years post-war, emphasizing the continuity of remembrance.
In August, the Imperial couple took a nostalgic stroll around the Ohinata settlement in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture. The settlement was originally developed by returnees from Manchuria after the war. This visit provided a sense of relief and connection to this significant year.
Despite her recovery, the Empress Emerita experiences a slight afternoon temperature rise, and her BNP levels, indicating heart failure risk, remain elevated. She maintains a routine of walking and light exercise to combat diminished leg strength, although she tires more easily and has a reduced walking range.
In her daily life, the Empress Emerita engages in reading sessions with the Emperor Emeritus and continues her independent reading pursuits. Recently, she enjoyed “Ichinichi, koten” by Takako Tanaka and “Nour’s Secret Library” by Wafa Tarnowska, the latter inspired by a newspaper mention.
