Marking two years since the debut of the anime adaptation of this web novel–turned–global hit, author Natsu Hyuga’s The Apothecary Diaries has brought the alluring mysteries of a fictional early medieval China to our screens. Filled with characters you quickly form deep emotional attachments to, rich storytelling, and a world that makes you wish you could travel back in time, it’s little wonder why so many have flocked to this series.
With the anime gaining popularity across the globe, novel and manga printings frequently selling out and requiring reprints, and characters dominating fan polls, it’s clear that The Apothecary Diaries has firmly cemented itself as a must-watch series.
For anyone who hasn’t yet entered the inner court, there’s much to uncover about the mysteries Maomao faces.
According to novel publisher J-Novel Club, here is the official series summary:
In the East is a land ruled by an emperor, whose consorts and serving women live in a sprawling complex known as the hougong, the rear palace. Maomao, an unassuming girl raised in a quiet town by her apothecary father, never imagined the rear palace would have anything to do with her—until she was kidnapped and sold into service there. Though she looks ordinary, Maomao has a quick wit, a sharp mind, and an extensive knowledge of medicine. That’s her secret—until she encounters a resident of the palace at least as perceptive as she is: the head eunuch, Jinshi. He sees through Maomao’s façade and makes her a lady-in-waiting to none other than the Emperor’s favorite consort… so she can taste the lady’s food for poison! At her lady’s side, Maomao starts to learn about everything that goes on in the rear palace—not all of it seemly. Can she ever lead a quiet life, or will her powers of deduction and insatiable curiosity draw her into ever more adventures—and ever more dangers?
And are there even more dangers ahead for Maomao and Jinshi. The team behind the anime adaptation has gone all out for the series’ second anniversary.
In a brand-new celebratory video, fans are treated not only to a nostalgic look back at favorite moments from the series so far but also to exciting details about the upcoming third season. Season three will be split into two cours—the first arriving during the fall 2026 anime season, and the second following in spring 2027.
As thrilling as that announcement is, the true gem is the reveal of an all-new story told in a feature film, slated for a Japanese theatrical release in December 2026.
There’s absolutely a great deal of excitement surrounding all this news, and while waiting is never easy, seeing Maomao and Jinshi grace our screens again will undoubtedly be worth it.
Be sure to catch The Apothecary Diaries on Crunchyroll or Netflix—and stay tuned, as we’ll be covering all the new developments and diving deeper into the world of Maomao and Jinshi.