Maomao, a young woman trained in the art of herbal medicine, is forced to work as a lowly servant in the inner palace. Though she yearns for life outside its perfumed halls, she isn’t long for a life of drudgery! Using her wits to break a “curse” afflicting the imperial heirs, Maomao attracts the attentions of the handsome eunuch Jinshi and is promoted to attendant food taster. But Jinshi has other plans for the erstwhile apothecary, and soon Maomao is back to brewing potions and…solving mysteries?!
Alternate Name(s): Kusuriya no Hitorigoto
Author(s): HYUUGA Natsu, NANAO Ikki, Nekokurage
Genre(s): Drama, Historical, Mystery, Romance, Seinen, Slice of Life
Type: Manga
Released: 2017
Official Translation: Yes
Status: Ongoing (Scan), Ongoing (Publish)
keywords: read The Apothecary Diaries, The Apothecary Diaries english, The Apothecary Diaries eng, download The Apothecary Diaries eng, read The Apothecary Diaries online, read Kusuriya no Hitorigoto manga online
You can read The Apothecary Diaries manga on Square Enix’s Manga UP! for official English translations. Physical volumes are also available through Square Enix Manga and Yen Press.
2. How many chapters are in The Apothecary Diaries manga?
As of November 14, 2024, the manga has 76 chapters, and new chapters are expected to continue as the series is ongoing.
3. When does The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 start?
Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on January 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM (GMT+1). Fans can look forward to more palace intrigue and mystery-solving with Maomao.
4. What is the plot of The Apothecary Diaries?
The story follows Maomao, a clever apothecary who works as a servant in the imperial court. She uses her knowledge of herbs and medicine to solve mysteries and medical cases, attracting the attention of high-ranking palace officials.
5. Who is the main character in The Apothecary Diaries?
Maomao is the main character. She’s an inquisitive apothecary with a sharp mind and a fascination with medicine, often drawn into palace mysteries that challenge her knowledge and wit.
6. What genre is The Apothecary Diaries?
This series is a mix of historical mystery, drama, and subtle romance. It’s set in an ancient Chinese-inspired imperial court, making it unique among manga for its historical and medical themes.
7. Is The Apothecary Diaries based on a novel?
Yes, it’s based on a light novel series by Natsu Hyuuga with illustrations by Touko Shino. The manga adaptation brings the story to life with detailed artwork and character dynamics.
8. How many volumes does The Apothecary Diaries manga have?
Currently, the manga has around 11 volumes in Japanese, with English volumes published by Square Enix Manga. Volumes collect several chapters into a single book, offering a convenient way to catch up.
9. Does the anime follow the manga closely?
Yes, the anime closely follows the manga’s storyline. While some adaptations may streamline scenes for pacing, it stays faithful to the main events and mysteries that fans love.
10. What makes The Apothecary Diaries unique among other historical manga?
It combines clever mysteries, historical palace intrigue, and Maomao’s unconventional approach to solving problems, with a focus on herbal medicine and palace life. This makes it stand out in both tone and content.
11. How many episodes will Season 2 of The Apothecary Diaries have?
While the exact episode count hasn’t been confirmed, Season 2 is expected to cover more story arcs, diving into the palace’s deeper mysteries and character relationships.
12. Is The Apothecary Diaries manga finished?
No, the manga is still ongoing, with new chapters being serialized regularly. Both the anime and manga will continue to develop Maomao’s story as more chapters and seasons are released.
13. Why is The Apothecary Diaries so popular?
The series combines a strong female protagonist with intriguing palace mysteries, historical drama, and a unique focus on herbal medicine. Fans enjoy the blend of history, mystery, and Maomao’s sharp, no-nonsense personality.
14. Who are other key characters besides Maomao?
Other main characters include Jinshi, a mysterious high-ranking palace official who frequently seeks Maomao’s help; and Xiaolan, Maomao’s friend and fellow maid. Each has their own connections and secrets within palace life.
15. Is there romance in The Apothecary Diaries?
Though romance isn’t the main theme, there is subtle romantic tension between certain characters, especially Maomao and Jinshi, which adds depth to their interactions.
16. What are the main story arcs in The Apothecary Diaries?
Some key arcs include The Poison Case, where Maomao solves a mysterious illness affecting palace women, and The High Consort Arc, which dives into palace hierarchies and complex relationships among consorts and officials.
17. How often is The Apothecary Diaries manga updated?
New chapters are serialized regularly, with English versions released every few months as volumes are published.
18. What makes Maomao a unique protagonist?
Maomao’s intelligence, independence, and fascination with herbal medicine make her a memorable lead. Her practical, inquisitive nature and disregard for palace formalities make her stand out in a highly structured environment.
The Apothecary Diaries Anime Season 2 Trailer
19. Where can I find the original The Apothecary Diaries light novel?
The original light novel is available in Japanese, with English translations available through J-Novel Club. The novels provide additional context and detail about the palace and Maomao’s character.
20. What can we expect from The Apothecary Diaries Season 2?
Season 2 will further explore Maomao’s growing reputation as a problem-solver within the palace. Fans can expect more complex cases, political intrigue, and character developments, as Maomao uncovers deeper secrets.
