For the first time, Netflix subscribers outside of Asia will have access to the hit anime series The Apothecary Diaries. The mystery-drama and romance anime is set to stream in the U.S. starting next month.
According to What’s On Netflix, The Apothecary Diaries will be available on Netflix beginning April 1, 2025. While the series has an English dub, it is unclear if it will be included alongside the original Japanese version. Previously, Netflix streamed the series only in select Asian regions, including Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. Currently, Crunchyroll holds exclusive streaming rights for North America and several other major territories.
The Apothecary Diaries stands out in the romance anime genre by replacing the typical modern school setting with a world inspired by Imperial China. The story follows Maomao, a skilled healer with extensive knowledge of medicinal herbs and poisons. She is kidnapped and sold as a servant in the emperor’s royal harem. When she thwarts an assassination attempt, her abilities catch the attention of Jinshi, a high-ranking servant, who appoints her as a poison taster for Lady Gyokyou, the emperor’s favored concubine. Fascinated by poison, Maomao embraces her new role while uncovering conspiracies within the imperial court.
Produced by Toho Animation, the anime is based on the light novel series written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Touko Shino. Since its release, the adaptation has gained a strong following, particularly in Japan. The series has been praised for its suspenseful storytelling and complex characters, earning high rankings in national popularity polls. It appeared on ABEMA’s “Television of the Future” list for Fall 2024 and was ranked #1 on Animate Times’ Top 10 “Winter 2025 Anime to Watch Until the End.”
Season 2 of The Apothecary Diaries premiered on January 10, 2025, with Akinori Fudesaka taking over as director after serving as assistant director in Season 1 under Norihiro Naganuma (The Ancient Magus’ Bride). The latest episodes hint at a major revelation regarding Jinshi’s true identity and rank in the imperial court.
Crunchyroll is currently simulcasting Season 2, with new episodes released every Friday at 9:15 a.m. PT. Fans can also read the original The Apothecary Diaries light novels in English through Square Enix Books.
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