The popular anime The Apothecary Diaries has joined the festivities for New Year 2025 with a series of charming illustrations featuring its beloved characters, Maomao and Jinshi. The first image, released on January 1, showcases the duo in a playful game of hanetsuki, a traditional Japanese game similar to badminton. The lively interaction between the two characters highlights the lighthearted and fun side of the series as it celebrates the beginning of the new year.
The second illustration, released on January 2, presents Maomao and Jinshi sharing a meal and drinks, further emphasizing their camaraderie and the warmth of the New Year season. These illustrations offer a glimpse into the vibrant dynamics between the two characters, adding to the excitement surrounding the upcoming anime season.
Anticipation Grows for The Apothecary Diaries Season 2
The Apothecary Diaries fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the anime series with the debut of Season 2, set to begin on January 10, 2025. The season will run for two consecutive cours, continuing the story of Maomao, a clever young apothecary who navigates the mysterious and politically charged atmosphere of the emperor’s palace. The series will be animated by OLM and TOHO Animation, with Norihiro Naganuma returning as the director.
The main trailer for the upcoming season was recently unveiled, featuring the theme song “Hyakka Ryoran” by Lilas Ikuta of the popular music group YOASOBI. Fans can also look forward to Season 2 being streamed by Crunchyroll as part of their Winter 2025 anime lineup.
Cast and Crew Details
The voice cast for the series includes Aoi Yuki as Maomao and Takeo Otsuka as Jinshi, with Katsuyuki Konishi voicing Gaoshun and Yui Ishikawa portraying Lihua. Other notable cast members include Misaki Kuno as Xiaolan, Yuko Kaida as Ah-Duo, and Atsumi Tanezaki as Gyokuyo. The voice cast rounds out with Hina Kino as Lishu and Takuya Kirimoto as Lakan Kan.
The Apothecary Diaries is based on the light novel written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Toko Shino. The series is serialized by Shunfunotomo, with two manga adaptations—one written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage, and another written and illustrated by Minoji Kurata. The former adaptation is published by Square Enix and serialized in Monthly GanGan, while the latter is published by Shogakukan and serialized in Monthly Sunday Gene-X.
Story Overview
The story follows Maomao, a young apothecary who is sold to the emperor’s palace as a lowly servant. Rather than staying obedient, Maomao uses her wit and intelligence to assist Jinshi, a handsome and enigmatic official in the palace, leading to her promotion and involvement in the royal family’s numerous mysteries.
J-Novel Club is publishing the The Apothecary Diaries light novel in English, while Square Enix handles the manga publication. The series continues to captivate audiences with its blend of mystery, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling.
As Season 2 approaches, excitement among fans is building, and the recent New Year illustrations only add to the anticipation for the upcoming episodes.
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