User reviews

I cannot describe how much I love the art in this show, every scene is absolutely beautiful, almost reminding me of "studio - Ghibli" inspired scenery and the main character is hilarious and likable it comes off as a bit of a murder mystery most episodes.the plot also moves at a pretty quick pace compared to most which I find more exciting and each episode feels fresh and engaging. However, depending on preference I'd probably recommend 13+ for this anime.that being said this is a great show for teens and adults alike whether alone or in a group this is a must-see for fantasy anime enthusiasts.

This is a great anime with an amazing story and it contains some funny humor in the right places, I personally love the way the setting of this anime is set and the colouring of it makes it feel enjoyable! Also the animation is very well produced although there are times where the CGI is a bit obvious it's still looks alright. The characters in this anime have amazing characteristics and it's amazing to see how they all grow and learn from their actions, the character development is well done!

I do hope to see a bright future for this anime, if the anime does stand out I would highly recommend reading the manga! I would definitely recommend watching this anime <3.

After long time I have found such a great anime , Mao Mao the protagonist is a well written character. She is smart and better protagonist than most of the animes protagonist that are releasing. The story is light hearted . This show follows Mao Mao a girl , who was kidnapped and sold as a maid in rear palace . The story is settled at ancient china, which really fascinated me and encouraged me to research on Chinese history. I like the animation although backgrounds could be more detailed, the love interest is also a really well written character , there are no unessecary romance . Each episode is enjoyable. Hundred percent recommended. I will never shut up about this. My friends also got hooked and they rarely watch anime .

(Sorry for bad English)

This was my most anticipated anime in Fall 2023. That was obviously not just because the Light Novel was high rated, but also because I was expecting a long term, mind blowing medical mystery.

I have to say that this anime met all my expectations. But the weird thing is that I'm still very surprised by it. Because I ended up loving it for a different reason - the characters. More than a mystery, this is a very strong, character-based drama, that uses an episodic mystery setting to keep exploring its characters. You could say that it is a character analysis or a character-based mystery, where you're curious about the past of these characters, and the anime keeps revealing it bit by bit as it goes along. The story cherished its main characters and took their depth very seriously.

In terms of characters and their depth and development, this was, in my opinion, the best anime that aired this season. Maomao is probably one of the best characters I've seen in any anime ever. She's smart, savage and you're always curious about what made her the way she is today.

The music and the animation was surprisingly brilliant. The seamless production for this anime probably surprised everyone.

I enjoyed the 1st part as it was a nice introduction to the characters, but I wasn't that impressed with the episodic mysteries. The 2nd part was when I really started loving the show. Because that's when the mysteries got considerably better, and they started to reveal a lot of surprising traits about our main characters and about their past. In fact I was shocked by what I saw during the final few episodes of the season. It made me look at the rest of the show a lot more differently.

This anime is also directed brilliantly. There are some chilling sequences here. While a lot of it was because of the music, the direction matched that - especially how they were able to represent how Maomao could be beautiful and terrifying at the same time.

Overall, this was a brilliant show and I'm very glad that we're getting a season 2 next year. I can't wait to learn more about the plot and these characters.

"The Apothecary Diaries" (Season 1, 2024, 8.4/10) offers viewers an unusual blend of detective stories, medical drama, and a subtle mystical atmosphere, creating a unique and memorable world. The anime transports us to ancient East Asia, where the main character, Mao Mao, a modest yet brilliant herbalist, finds herself entangled in palace intrigues and mysterious cases that require her extraordinary intellect and knowledge.

The main strength of the first season lies in its ability to balance detective elements with character development. Each arc focuses on a new mystery, whether it's a poisoning, a strange illness, or a political conspiracy. Instead of standard action scenes, the audience is treated to intellectual duels and tense investigations, which make the anime stand out from other works in the genre. Additionally, the emphasis on detail and authenticity makes the story not only engaging but also informative.

As the protagonist, Mao Mao immediately captures attention with her unique personality. Her sharp intellect, sarcastic wit, and independence make her refreshingly realistic and intriguing. She is not a typical hero driven by fame or fortune but a curious individual determined to uncover the truth. Her interactions with other characters, especially the enigmatic and charismatic palace eunuch Jinshi, add dynamism and depth to the narrative.

Visually, The Apothecary Diaries impresses with its detailed settings and well-thought-out character design. The palace interiors are depicted with elegance, while the scenes dedicated to herbs, potions, and medicines are crafted with such precision that viewers can almost smell and feel them. Though the animation doesn't feature much action, it remains expressive, highlighting the tension in critical moments.

The musical score also deserves praise. The soundtrack enhances the atmosphere of intrigue and mystery, with melodies imbued with an Eastern flavor perfectly complementing the time and setting of the story. Music plays a vital role in creating the dark yet enigmatic mood of the series.

However, the first season is not without its flaws. Some mysteries come across as overly straightforward or predictable, which might disappoint viewers accustomed to more complex detective puzzles. Additionally, some secondary characters remain underdeveloped, despite their obvious potential for compelling storylines. Nonetheless, these shortcomings do not overshadow the overall quality of the series.

In conclusion, The Apothecary Diaries is a captivating anime that offers a fresh take on the genre, blending intellectual mysteries with a rich atmosphere and deep characters. Despite minor drawbacks, the first season leaves a strong impression and leaves viewers eager to see further development of both the story and the inner world of the characters.

None of the episodes were boring. Usually, I leave many of the series in between, but this never let me down. I have watched all the episodes weekly and never felt like leaving in between. This will be in one of my top recommendations. Even in some good stories you could guess what's going to happen but it's always different in this series. I hope this anime gets noticed well. Excited to see what's going to happen in the next season. It's heart warming at times, abit emotional in between, something times comedic. I think it has a perfect blend of everything. Wishing this series my wishes. May it be a successful one!!!

Hi. I'm 11 years old and I live in Bangladesh in south east Asia. My name is Manha. I think apothecary diaries is a nice anime series. The concept is nice. The amount of knowledge put in to this is woow. The animation is top. I'm so surprised of how they have been able to send 1 episode in 1 week with the animation being so good 👍. Just by watching 1 episode anyone can tell exactly how much effort was put in to this. Everything about it is nice. I'm very sure that they have tried their best in to make such an amazing show. It is one of the most beautiful, amazing, etc the best anime series I have ever watched. So, these are the reasons I gave it a 10 out of 10. And I really really hope they will make a 2nd season.

This anime is really one of the best that I have seen in years! Its very light hearted even when talking about serious topics. Honestly its so good and even makes you care for unsavory characters. The episode plots can be a bit complex but if you've seen Detective Conan you can rest assured the wrap up will be smoothly given in the next episode. I'm not one for drama but this does in a very settle way that doesn't focus on it like the majority of media does. The characters are all so interesting or just plain funny. The background is absolutely well done. Yet the characters do not take away from that nor does the background outshine the character. The visual editors of this anime must be top notch!

The ending was well done and now there is a season 2 in the making! I can not wait to see what happens! I know there were a few loose ends in the first season and now we can get those answers! I am also curious to see what happens between Maomao and Jinshi! Their relationship is interesting and delightfully not traditional romance!

One of the best female protagonists in any anime, she is similar than Freiren, both are strong and very smart beautiful women, there are not a lot of main leads like these two and in the same year 2023-2024 we have both that are excellent

This show has a lot of complex characters and its true the episodes can feel episodic, its not that bad because everyone in the show it's somehow connected to each other, the storylines are powerful and some are tragic and that makes the journey very enjoyable, there is not a villain villain here, there are just bad and good people, there are some nasty personality's here overall a great anime 9/10.

The Apothecary Diaries is a brilliantly crafted mystery anime that proves you don't need intense action or bold scenes to keep viewers hooked. With a compelling female protagonist, the series dives deep into palace politics, medical mysteries, and psychological intrigue. The story follows Maomao, a sharp-witted apothecary, as she navigates the emperor's palace, solving intricate cases while uncovering deeper conspiracies. Her intelligence, sarcasm, and observational skills make her an incredibly refreshing lead.

What sets this anime apart is its intellectual storytelling and detailed world-building. The pacing is steady, and every episode unravels a new piece of the puzzle, keeping the audience engaged throughout. Unlike typical historical dramas, it focuses on the protagonist's personal growth and wit, rather than just romance or power struggles. I binge-watched all 24 episodes in a single day, and it was worth every second. For me, this anime is a solid 10/10, perfect for those who enjoy smart, well-written narratives over flashy action.

Maomao is a refreshing main character. She is intelligent, decisive, independent, and unafraid to confront or criticize her peers. She has her weaknesses though and won't hesitate test herbs on herself or drink poison for the fun of it! She is utterly unphased by the advances of Jinshi (whose beauty swoons every other girl), causing him to take interest in her.

The emotional tones are well placed. I feel the humor, sadness, anger, and excitement of the characters. It presents serious themes with enough room for the audience to process them, and it pokes fun by humorously portraying characters as cats or mice to reflect their personalities.

The show is set in an imperial Asian country and it injects all the taboos and social conventions from that time. It's interesting to see how this class-heavy, patriarchal environment affects the character's motives and decisions. Certainly a unique setting that is incorporated into the plot very well.

I really enjoy this series-so much so that I ended up diving into the novels just to see what happens next. I've read 13 volumes so far, while the anime barely scratches the surface, covering only about the first four.

When it comes to romance, though, it's slower than a snail, and I can't help but wonder if the author is just milking the idea now that there's a strong fandom around the anime, manga, and light novels. There's a lot of teasing, tension, near-confessions, and "almost" moments... but no real payoff. At some point, it stops being cute and just becomes frustrating.

That said, the story itself is compelling and beautifully written-which is why I'm still giving it a 7 out of 10.

If you're here for the romance, though, you might want to look elsewhere. I highly recommend "Violet Evergarden" or "My Happy Marriage" for something more emotionally satisfying.

But the ingrained misogyny ruined it for me. It is a captivating story. The main character is amazing. Everything about it should have been delightful to watch. And I tried, but I kept finding myself getting stuck on phrases like, "she had the traits suitable of a concubine," meant to be some sort of compliment to her personality, to imply that she wasn't as vapid as the main character thought she was.

The unquestioning acceptance of women as valuable property and nothing more, while perhaps accurate to the time period depicted, seemed completely and utterly unnecessary. These women could have been given more. It is based on an actual historical period, but it doesn't have to be completely accurate to it to still be delightful and captivating. It could have taken all of the beauty of color and poise and the imagery without the misogyny.

And maybe I am being overly critical of it, or maybe there is just too much ingrained misogyny by the patriarchy being shoved down our throats on a daily basis that I just cannot handle it.

I think I expected a story that actually delve into the personalities of these women, of the struggles of being treated as property, of the mysteries surrounding the things happening at the palace, but instead, I got "Look at all of these beautiful, large breasted, valuable sex objects."

The main character, despite her incredible brain and knowledge, even describes herself as being of less value because she is, "flat chested and has freckles." And maybe I gave up too soon. Maybe later on in the series they actually start to tackle some of that misogyny. But I'll never know because I couldn't stomach it anymore.

I gave it the rating that I gave it for the story, the mystery, and the main character. All of those things deserve a much higher rating and deserve to be couched in a much more intelligent series.

Just to get one important caveat out of the way, despite the usual anime trope, at its heart Apothecary Diaries is a serious slice of life palace intrigue drama aimed at older anime watching crowd. The show comes replete with the usual anime trimmings, e.g. Ultra cute stereotypical female character designs, beautiful lead male character, exaggerated expression, comical visual transformation, and gratuitous well endowed female characters. Given its context, in which one main recurring location is a brothel, the latter are par for the course and not entirely gratuitous, by the way.

For the more masculine viewers, the show contains romance though it's never the predominant focus. The evolving and developing relationship between the main characters is, however, part of the recurring theme throughout the show. It features often enough in each episode, but never too much to become cloy. If anything, the fraught relationship serves as a counterbalancing comic relief to sometimes pretty dark themes.

Why is this a 10/10 show? The 24-episode series features quirky yet realistically and well written main characters. The same level of love and care are given to most supporting characters, though obviously not to the same depth as the main ones. Background music and scores are memorable and work together effectively to accentuate and deliver the emotional impact of the story being told. The animation is top-notched and features very detailed and beautiful art designs. The animation features occasional virtual camera movement and composition reminiscent of live action shots, often giving the animation a pretty effective cinematic look instead of the usual 2D anime.

The 24-episode format sounds somewhat long outside of famous recurring well established franchises. But pacing of the show feels just right. Viewers are given enough to understand what's going on with clues, bread crumbs, and foreshadowing to stimulate speculating brain cells. Viewers are always wondering what's going to happen next. A 24-minute episode simply flies by quickly, feeling as if the episode just started when it is in fact closer to the ending credit.

Unlike many series where you'll get a few episodes where they feel like fillers. None exists in this series. This is not to say that flashbacks or recaps, reusing older footages, aren't present. They do, but they have been used effectively to highlight and tie together clues and bread crumbs sprinkled over previous episodes that are easy to miss or not easily recognized as inter-related. This is often done just when the arc is about to deliver the big payoff.

When the big payoff does come, you definitely feel it. Some of the mystery and intrigue genre shows come off as unfair when clues have been purposefully withheld or actively misled to produce artificially the big surprise. The Apothecary Diaries does not do this and yet does not feel lacking in big surprises. Whenever the big reveals come, they are a satisfying balance between a surprise and an expectation fulfilled, rather than completely subverted. The best sort of surprises force the viewers to look back and say to themselves, "yeah... I saw and thought about that, but couldn't quite commit to that conclusion." It's not only what is revealed as a surprise, but also how. The Apothecary Diaries delivers its surprises in ways that tugs hard at your heartstrings.

The show was featured as recommended in my Netflix queue for the longest time. I wouldn't call myself a fan of the palace intrigue genre, anime or otherwise. These dramas are also a dime a dozen in live action Chinese and Korean series. I am very glad that I took the chance to check it out. It turns out to be one of those expectations subverted, in a very good way as a matter of fact.

(14+) An AMAZING historical anime that is addictive, thought provoking, and smartly written. This is a MUST WATCH in my opinion and is destined to become one of the best anime's ever made! The female main character is very well done, and her story is inspiring and highly entertaining! Each episode is a surprise, and some of the mysteries kept me enthralled, wondering what the heck happened, why, and how was it going to be resolved? This anime is blowing up right now, and for good reason!

Check out my comprehensive list of Anime titles to find your next watch - just click my profile link at the bottom left of this review!

I love all the intrigues of the story, the quirkiness of the characters, the humor behind it. It's very well done and leaves you wanting more. The characters are well developed and you see a progression in relationship but also the characters throughout the story. Each storyline leaves you wanting more. However what kept me hooked was the investigations, various facts presented that doesn't always have to do with the investigation (also not always presented in respect to the right time frame of the story...cough CPR being used). Also, the very humoristic and sarcastic deliveries makes it quite entertaining and makes it kinda feel a bit like Sherlock Holmes but with a small girl fascinated by poison in an Asian setting.

It is really really hard to explain how much I loved this anime series from little pieces to crucial parts. It is a masterpiece. I swear I watch it every year so long as I am alive. I cannot thank enough to people who attended to make this happen. I highly recommend to other anime fans to watch this masterpiece if you have not yet. The grafic, the sounds and songs, the characters, the plot, the humour, the view, the moral -- every single part were perfect, remarkable. When I watch this anime, I forget about eveything, work, stress, problems and then enjoy every last bit of it.

Please keep making this anine series. Thank you so much ^_^

Was written by a woman! Big surprise. Maybe it actually takes a woman themselves to write such compelling female characters with female protagonists.

The title "Apothecary Diaries" does not immediately scream entertainment, I must admit, but rest assured, this show both fulfils its title and also extends the story beyond the limits of simple quackery. The show takes place in a feudal empire, clearly in the east, which bears much similarity to late medieval China, but is undoubtedly a fictional world with no resemblance to a real scenario, as is made clear. Nevertheless while technically in this sense, a work of fantasy, the Apothecary Diaries boasts an excellent range of medical and herbal knowledge which makes it interesting from a worldbuilding perspective. Taking place in the confines of the Rear Palace, the show prides itself on constructing both a political hierarchy of Eunuchs and Concubines, but also an encyclopaedia of early medicine. The show takes a mystery approach to medicine, and uses theories of science to direct the plot effortlessly and without the need for extended buildup. This allows the show to maintain a consistent plot of smaller "mystery of the day" scenarios which all collide into one larger picture which paints itself into the story.

All while doing this, a well-built, compelling and engaging plot, the show excels at character writing. Maomao being one of the freshest protagonists I've ever seen, the show layers the protagonist excellently in such a multi-faceted way that explaining it all would be impossible. Maomao has a strong set of ideals on her medical practice, which make her firm, ruthless, and at times cold, but also ultimately wants the best for all the people around her. Her love for seemingly, gruesome, "unfeminine" hobbies, such as foraging, poison-tasting and medicine procurement (hang, on these are just downright odd in general) contrasts well with her intellect and compassion which really perfectly understands just why a female character is so much more compelling for this story. Tackling ideas such as gender roles in a feudal society with a tactful realism, there is clear acknowledgment of Maomao's limited influence as a woman, however the overcoming of these limitations through her ability to adapt to her circumstances makes her a far more endearing character. As well as Maomao, Jinshi, Gaoshun and the Consorts are well-written, deeply emotionally rooted characters, and the slower pace allows for an incredible exploration of their own motivations in parallel to Maomao's herself. This effort, attentiveness to detail and character building is vital, along with the incredibly detailed artwork and character design, which understands well how to create memorable looking characters (sometimes understated, but vital for a show's success) to immerse the watcher in an overall incredible story which leaves numerous questions while resolving others throughout the plot.

While many may believe my rating is somewhat extreme for what is a relatively simple show which comes with less of an allegory and more of a general sense of morality, I believe it is the simple, clear message conveyed on the importance of goodheartedness, acting in certainty and caution, and being unafraid to challenge others which makes the Apothecary Diaries so distinctive and clear in its message. While not a bold statement or incredible life changing show, it is an excellent work of fiction and potentially the best thing I have ever watched from a personal enjoyment standpoint.

10/10. My personal favourite which I could not recommend more.

The Apothecary Diaries" has completely enchanted me! It's been years since an anime has truly hooked me like this, but MaoMao and Jinshi's bond? Oh, it's something special-pure, subtle, yet so powerful!

MaoMao, with her sharp mind and adorable obliviousness, keeps solving mysteries like it's second nature. Meanwhile, Jinshi-oh, Jinshi-his unwavering love for her is so pure, so genuine, yet she remains blissfully unaware! Their dynamic is like a delicate thread, always there, always pulling at our hearts, but never quite tied into a bow.

The mix of Chinese culture with Japanese storytelling makes this world feel magical and one of a kind. Every stolen glance, every unspoken word, every tiny moment between them-I live for it! And let's be honest, we all secretly wish for a moment where MaoMao finally realizes just how much Jinshi cares for her. Just one scene of them alone, without palace duties, without distractions... just them.

Season 2 better bring more of their adorable chemistry, and if we're lucky enough to get a Season 3-let it be only about them! No more solving other people's problems-just Jinshi trying (and probably struggling) to spend time with MaoMao, while she remains clueless in the cutest way.

Until then, I'll just be here, rewatching their little moments and screaming internally every time Jinshi looks at MaoMao like she's his whole world. Slow burn? Yes. Torturous? Also yes. But I wouldn't have it any other way!

As someone who loved Season 1 of The Apothecary Diaries, I was really looking forward to Season 2-but I have to be honest, it hasn't quite delivered the same spark.

Season 1 was a perfect mix of mystery, clever writing, and Maomao's quirky personality. She was awkward, sharp, and hilarious in her own strange way. That charm made the series truly special. But in Season 2, especially the first 12 episodes, it feels like we've lost that side of her. Maomao's weird little habits, blunt comments, and chaotic experiments are barely there. She's more reserved now, and the story leans heavily into politics and complex court drama-which is interesting, but also a bit dry without the lighter moments.

Also, I really missed the chemistry and awkward flirtation between Maomao and Jinshi (Jun-Chi). Those small interactions added fun tension and depth to their characters, but they've been downplayed or skipped entirely this season.

Don't get me wrong, the animation is still beautiful, the mysteries are well-crafted, and the world is fascinating. But I miss the humor, the personality, and the emotional variety that made Season 1 so enjoyable. I hope the second half of Season 2 brings some of that magic back.

This is a worst anime I have watch . Tried to watch this anime but Effect and visuals are so bright and female lead face looks annoying. While watching I can't able to differtiate the leads first.male lead look also weired..it's like he is not there and not Part of anime Story gets boring in middle and last episodes .

I don't know why they out such bright effects .the people who loves mystery and fantasy they can watch it.but the people who loves emotions and romcoms for those it not worth of watching

I thought they will focus on romance too.but their romantic moments are so bad..overall I will give it 5 rating..

The main character is so lovable. She is curious, hardworking, smart, so emotionally intelegence, self aware, and passionate!

She has grit, she is okay about being a maid, just for getting access to drugs haha. I just adore her curiosity trait, how she so hard working but she do it out of love.

The plot is good. And I am curious about who that beautiful guy really is.

Anyway, i am just hoping that the main lead has more love build up. I just wish this has some smoothy going on between them, but i think they just stick to kissing.

The girl background also mindblowing. I almost dont catch the plot, that the glass man is her actual dad. That he is actually kind, he does NOT purposely leave the lady. I love their love story too, they are actually a fated partner.

Cool mysteries, likeable characters, and a fun vivid theme overall. Many times I laughed out loud because of the funny moments, lol. I don't like cringe romance scenes, but Maomao and Jinshi are unforgettable because every encounter they have is so awkward and goofy, and her reactions to everything are so relatable and realistic. I will be waiting for season 3 with great anticipation. I wouldn't suggest letting kids watch it, because of the mature themes and moments (that happen later on.) I'm not sure what made me even start watching this anime, since it isn't what I'm drawn to usually, but I LOVED it. I'd love a whole movie.