If reincarnation exists, I’m fairly certain I’ll come back as a capybara. It’s almost inevitable. For anyone responsible for this: could I please return as a Japanese capybara enjoying a yuzu onsen in a zoo?
The Japanese take bathing very seriously, likely due to their numerous hot springs from volcanic activity. These natural onsens have inspired the Japanese to embrace hot tubs. Given that capybaras are tropical creatures, it’s only natural for the Japanese to offer them similar winter indulgences.
The yuzu is a wonderfully aromatic citrus fruit, although it’s not great for eating fresh. It is often used in preserves, and the Japanese find many applications for it. The zest of the yuzu rind is famed for its fragrance. When added to a hot bath, it releases a delightful aroma. The yellow citrus fruits bobbing in the capybara onsens you see below are yuzu.
In my opinion, some zoos may cheat by adding a few lemons and oranges. I used to peel oranges in a continuous curl for Hibby’s winter wading poolhot tub onsen. Even a mandarin orange emits a wonderful fragrance when peeled. I’m confident that Hibby enjoyed the scent of the fruit peels in his pool.
The upcoming video features some delightful ear movements and contented capybara sounds.
During cold weather, I often poured hot water over Hibby, or had a volunteer do it, watching him steam for a bit. A hose connected to hot water made this easy. I believe Nagasaki BioPark was the first to create an elaborate capybara onsen, but now, most Japanese zoos have them.
The final video starts in an onsen, but then one capybara, “Hibby,” gets out. “Hibby” has learned that visitors can buy capybara food from a small booth. However, big and clever capybaras like “Hibby” know how to stand up and grab treats for free. Capybaras have a unique way of standing up, similar to a scissor lift, showcased brilliantly here, along with some shameless theft.
At 25 seconds, the mouthing action you see is a request for food. I recognize that behavior! Additionally, I don’t think “Hibby” is the right name—I believe it’s a pregnant female. Notice her size when she stands up—no wonder she’s hungry!
To my Japanese readers: if you visit a zoo, please take some pictures and videos and share them with us!
