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The Apothecary Diaries stands out among the plethora of long-running shonen and seinen franchises with its captivating blend of drama, mystery, and romance. Norihiro Naganuma’s creation effortlessly captivates audiences across various mediums, from its origins as a light novel series to its adaptation into a best-selling manga and beloved anime.
Set against the backdrop of Imperial China during the Tang Dynasty, The Apothecary Diaries enchants viewers with its rich aesthetics and compelling storytelling. At the heart of the narrative is Maomao, a young girl thrust into the complex world of the Imperial Palace. From her humble beginnings as a servant to her rise as an unofficial forensic pathologist for the royal court, Maomao’s journey is both inspiring and eventful.
Originally penned by Natsu Hyūga and illustrated by Touko Shino in 2011, The Apothecary Diaries underwent a journey of its own before blossoming into an anime. Two manga adaptations followed in 2017, paving the way for its animated adaptation six years later by Toho Animation Studio and OLM.
The first season of The Apothecary Diaries, comprising 24 episodes, premiered on Oct. 22, 2023, and concluded on March 24, 2024. Broadcasted on Nippon TV in Japan, Crunchyroll acquired streaming rights for audiences outside Asia, with Netflix securing distribution in select regions of Asia.
Following the success of the debut season, fans eagerly awaited news of a second installment. Their patience was rewarded when it was officially announced that The Apothecary Diaries would return for a second season. While an exact release date is yet to be unveiled, Toho Animation confirmed that the new season is slated to premiere in 2025.
With the anime having only scratched the surface of the light novel’s expansive narrative, there’s a wealth of untold adventures awaiting Maomao and Jinshi in the upcoming season. As fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of their favorite characters’ journeys, the promise of more mysteries to unravel and heartfelt moments to cherish ensures that The Apothecary Diaries will remain a beloved fixture in the anime landscape for years to come.