Capybaras at a zoo north of Tokyo have enjoyed a hot bath with floating apples amid freezing temperatures.

Each year at this time, an outdoor bath is drawn for capybaras at Nasu Animal Kingdom in Tochigi Prefecture to help them cope with the cold. The giant rodents indigenous to South America are sensitive to cold weather.

On Saturday, six capybaras were given a special treat: some 100 apples to eat while soaking in the bath. They wasted no time munching on the apples.

Many visitors were seen taking photos of the animals, some of which appeared to be dozing in the hot water after filling their stomachs.

A man visiting with his family said it was so cold that he felt envious of the capybaras. He added that he was amazed at their appetite.

The apple bath event will be held again on Sunday, which is "Good Bath Day" as established by a Japanese bath industry group.