Emperor Akihito of Japan has left hospital in Tokyo following a heart bypass operation.
The emperor, 78, underwent surgery in February at the University of Tokyo Hospital.
He was pictured walking on his own and bowing to doctors before getting in a car with his wife, Empress Michiko.
He is reported to be keen to take part in the anniversary events of the earthquake and tsunami on 11 March 2011.
Although the emperor plays a largely ceremonial role, he is deeply respected by many Japanese.
He ascended the throne in 1989 following the death of his father, Emperor Hirohito.
Emperor Akihito also had surgery for prostate cancer in 2003.
