Princess Aiko recovering after being bullied

Japan's Princess Aiko has walked home from school unaccompanied for the first time this year.

The nine year old returned home to the Crown Prince's Residence in Minato Ward from the Gakushuin Primary School in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward on Tuesday (18.01.11), the first time since July 23 last year.

Princess Aiko's mother, Crown Princess Masako, brought her daughter to school by car but had a parents' meeting after classes, so Aiko returned home to her father Crown Prince Naruhito alone, according to the Mainichi Daily News.

The princess had taken time off school last year due to anxiety issues after reportedly being bullied by some boys in her class.

Her condition has been improving, however, and last month Princess Masako released a statement saying: "[Princess Aiko's] hours in school are getting longer, and I am relieved to see her enjoy spending time together with her friends."

Of the reason for her school problems, she added: "It was due to rough behaviour of boys in her grade."

Princess Masako's royal duties had been reduced so she could accompany her daughter to school.