The much-anticipated second season of The Apothecary Diaries has premiered, and with it, a stunning creditless opening theme has been released, captivating fans worldwide. The opening, titled “Hyakka Ryoran (Splendid Bounty),” is performed by Lilas Ikuta from the acclaimed duo YOASOBI. This vibrant and visually striking opening sets the stage for the new season, promising more of the intricate mysteries and palace intrigue that have made the series a fan favorite.
A New Chapter Begins
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 officially began airing on January 10, 2025, marking its place in the Winter 2025 anime lineup. The series, which follows the sharp-witted apothecary Maomao as she navigates the complex world of the imperial court, has garnered significant attention. Season 2 will run for two consecutive cours, meaning fans can expect a substantial amount of content in the coming months.
The return of TOHO Animation studio and OLM to animate the series ensures a continuation of the high-quality visuals that viewers have come to expect. The new season promises to delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding the imperial court, with Maomao facing fresh challenges and dangers.
The Opening Theme: “Hyakka Ryoran”
The creditless opening theme, “Hyakka Ryoran,” is a key highlight of the season premiere. Lilas Ikuta, known for her work as the vocalist of YOASOBI under the name Ikura, brings her unique vocal style to the track. The song, translating to “Splendid Bounty,” perfectly encapsulates the vibrant and intricate world of the anime.
The opening video is directed by Nakata Ayaka, who previously gained recognition for her work on the opening video of “I’ll Parry Everything: The World’s Strongest Reverse Misunderstands and Wants to Be an Adventurer.” The visuals feature recurring motifs of mirrors and optical illusions, as well as key items that appear in each episode, hinting at the mysteries and twists that viewers can anticipate.
Ikuta has expressed her honor in performing the opening theme for Season 2, stating she was moved by the first season. She also said that she tried to keep the energy of the original series in mind when singing “Hyakka Ryoran.” This is her first time providing an opening theme for an anime.
Season 1’s Opening
The first season’s opening theme, “Hana ni Natte,” by Ryokuoushoku Shakai, set a high bar for the series. The song’s upbeat tempo and engaging visuals made it a memorable introduction to the world of Maomao and the imperial court. The opening theme song was released on December 6, 2023. The lyrics were written by vocalist/guitarist Haruko Nagaya, and the music was composed by bassist Shingo Anami.
What to Expect in Season 2
Season 2 of The Apothecary Diaries promises to be even more thrilling than the first. The plot thickens as a favored concubine becomes pregnant, thrusting Maomao into the role of food taster. This not only requires her to protect the concubine but also to navigate the rising dangers within the palace walls.
New characters and storylines are introduced, including a new concubine with powerful connections, an unsolved attempt on Jinshi’s life, and a foreign envoy with seemingly impossible demands. These plot elements point towards a grand conspiracy that could engulf the entire empire.
Streaming Details
For viewers in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, and CIS regions, The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The premiere was available on January 10 at 9:15 a.m. PT. While the subbed version is immediately available, dub release details are yet to be announced. It is also likely that Season 2 may appear on other platforms, such as Prime Video, later on, as Season 1 is currently available on both Crunchyroll and Prime Video.
The anime will be comprised of 24 episodes, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the ongoing story. This longer season allows for a more in-depth look at the characters and the unfolding mysteries, something that fans are eagerly anticipating.
A Blend of Historical Intrigue and Medical Knowledge
The Apothecary Diaries stands out for its unique blend of historical intrigue and medical knowledge. Set in ancient China, the series follows Maomao’s journey as she uses her expertise in apothecary science to solve complex mysteries. Her sharp intellect and keen observational skills make her an exceptional protagonist, drawing viewers into the story.
The show is produced by TOHO Animation Studio and OLM. Norihiko Naganuma and Akinori Fudesaka serve as directors for the series. The light novels which the anime is based on are written by Touko Shino, illustrated by Natsu Hyuuga, and published by Shufunotomo in Japan under their Hero Bunko imprint. J-Novel Club publishes the English version in digital form.
Anticipation and Fan Excitement
The premiere of Season 2 has been highly anticipated by fans of the series. The release of the creditless opening theme has only heightened this excitement, with many taking to social media to share their enthusiasm for the new season. The combination of a captivating opening theme, a compelling storyline, and high-quality animation has made The Apothecary Diaries a must-watch for anime fans.
The themes of “mirrors” and “optical illusions” within the opening video hint at the complex and often deceptive nature of the palace, further adding to the intrigue and suspense. These elements suggest that the audience can expect many twists and turns as the season progresses.
As Season 2 unfolds, viewers can expect a continuation of the intricate plots, intriguing characters, and stunning animation that have made The Apothecary Diaries a standout series. The release of the creditless opening theme is just the first taste of what is sure to be a remarkable season. With Maomao at the center of the action, the story promises to deliver new mysteries, challenges, and ultimately, satisfying conclusions to the many questions that have arisen in the series so far.
