TOHO animation has announced that the new The Apothecary Diaries anime film, titled Kusuriya no Hitorigoto: Bо̄hi no Hihо̄ (The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure), will open on December 11 in theaters in Japan. As previously announced, the new anime film includes a new story by The Apothecary Diaries series author Hyuganatsu.
The cast includes Aoi Yuki as Maomao, Takeo Otsuka as Jinshi, and Mariya Ise as Mu Qing. The story follows Maomao and Jinshi as they travel to a concubine’s hometown five years after her death in the imperial harem. There, they will discover the secrets of the Empress’ remains and a mysterious boy, along with pirates.
The Apothecary Diaries Season 3 will premiere in October 2026 with a two-cour run. The second cour follows up in April 2027.
Hyuganatsu writes the original The Apothecary Diaries light novel series, with illustrations by Toko Shino. The novel made its debut on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website in October 2011. Nekokurage launched the ongoing manga adaptation in Square Enix’s Monthly Big Gangan magazine in May 2017.
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 ran from January 10 to July 4, 2025, and it’s streaming on Crunchyroll. What’s more, Itsuki Nanao’s The Apothecary Diaries: Xiaolan’s Story manga was launched on March 23 on Manga UP!.
What’s more, CTW’s simulation browser game The Apothecary Diaries Palace Chronicles is now available on G123.
Lastly, here’s a synopsis of the series, via Crunchyroll:
Maomao lived a peaceful life with her apothecary father. Until one day, she’s sold as a lowly servant to the emperor’s palace. But she wasn’t meant for a compliant life among royalty. So when imperial heirs fall ill, she decides to step in and find a cure! This catches the eye of Jinshi, a handsome palace official who promotes her. Now, she’s making a name for herself solving medical mysteries!
