The highly anticipated second season of The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) has premiered, bringing viewers back to the captivating world of Maomao and the Imperial Palace. The first episode, titled “Maomao and Maomao,” aired on January 10, 2025, and is now available on Crunchyroll. The season premiere immediately dives back into the unique blend of mystery, drama, and subtle humor that made the first season so popular, promising another enthralling run for fans.
A New Chapter Begins
Season 2 picks up with Maomao resuming her duties as a food taster for Lady Gyokuyo after a recent palace party. The episode quickly establishes a shift in the palace’s atmosphere, with novels gaining popularity among the inner court despite their lower-class stigma. This new trend piques Maomao’s curiosity, and she begins to question its sudden emergence. Meanwhile, Jinshi, the enigmatic palace manager, appears to be subtly influencing events, hinting at hidden motives.
Maomao’s New Role
The premiere episode sees Maomao taking on an unexpected role as a teacher. She requests numerous books from her Consort House with the intention of teaching the maids of the Imperial Palace how to read. This development showcases Maomao’s intellectual curiosity and her desire to empower those around her, even if they are confined to the restrictive environment of the palace.
An Unusual Guest
A significant part of the episode revolves around Maomao encountering an unusual guest—a kitten. The Emperor requests that Maomao care for the kitten, which she aptly names “Maomao” as “mao” means cat in Chinese, creating a humorous dynamic as both the protagonist and the feline share the same name. This “Rat Annihilator,” as the kitten is later nicknamed for its effectiveness in taking care of the vermin in the herb room, adds a light-hearted touch to the episode, balancing the underlying tensions of court intrigue.
Mysteries and Intrigue
While the premiere is more of a slice-of-life episode, it subtly lays the groundwork for future mysteries and challenges. The episode hints that Shishou (Maomao’s adoptive father) is up to something, and a mysterious caravan carrying a beautiful woman is en route to the palace. The identity of the woman remains unknown, but her arrival will undoubtedly bring new drama and complications to the court, potentially entangling Maomao in more intricate schemes.
Unresolved Threats
The second season also promises to delve deeper into the unresolved mysteries from the first season. Viewers will be eager to learn who is trying to kill Jinshi and why, as well as how Maomao will navigate the increasingly dangerous political landscape. The introduction of a new concubine with powerful connections and a foreign envoy with impossible demands further suggests a grand conspiracy that will likely engulf the empire.
Characters and Returning Cast
The core characters of The Apothecary Diaries return, with Aoi Yuuki reprising her role as the sharp-witted and observant Maomao. Takeo Otsuka is back as the handsome and mysterious Jinshi, whose fascination with Maomao continues to be a focal point. The supporting cast, including Katsuyuki Konishi as Gaoshun and Atsumi Tanezaki as Lady Gyokuyo, add depth to the narrative. The season also introduces Lingli, Lady Gyokuyo’s toddler daughter, who is eager to explore the world beyond her quarters.
New Faces
While many familiar characters return, the introduction of new characters will undoubtedly bring fresh perspectives and challenges. The mysterious woman in the caravan is expected to make a significant impact on the story, and the series will likely delve into the relationships and motivations of other court members, including new concubines and envoys.
Production Quality and Style
The anime is produced by TOHO animation STUDIO and OLM, the same studios responsible for the first season. The production values remain consistent, with detailed backgrounds and smooth animation. The opening theme “Hyakkaryouran” (Splendid Bounty) by Lilas Ikuta, as well as the ending theme, are highly praised for their quality. The music, composed by Satoru Kousaki, Kevin Penkin, and Alisa Okehazama, adds to the overall atmosphere of the show.
Where to Watch
“The Apothecary Diaries” season 2 is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. New episodes are released every Friday, with the simulcast airing at 9:15 am PT, providing viewers with the latest developments in Maomao’s adventures. There are plans for dubbed releases in several languages, but these are expected at a later date.
A Promising Start
The season premiere of “The Apothecary Diaries” has been met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike. The episode successfully reintroduces the beloved characters and unique setting, while also hinting at the larger mysteries that await. The blend of light-hearted moments and underlying intrigue makes for an engaging viewing experience, demonstrating the show’s ability to maintain its high standards. With a strong start to the second season, viewers can look forward to more compelling plots, sharp dialogue, and outstanding performances. The first episode has once again established The Apothecary Diaries as a standout anime series, and its return is a welcome event for fans.
