The Apothecary Diaries season 2 episode 1 release date, exact time, where to watch

The intrigue continues with the premiere of The Apothecary Diaries season 2 episode 1 as Maomao embarks on a brand-new chapter, unraveling unexpected mysteries inside and outside the Imperial Palace.

Fans of the beloved Apothecary Diaries light novel series, written by Touko Shino and illustrated by Natsu Hyuuga, will be thrilled to know that the anime adaptation is returning for a second season.

The original novels were published in Japan by Shufunotomo under their Hero Bunko imprint, captivating readers with Maomao’s wit and the intriguing mysteries she uncovers within the Imperial harem.

If you’re eager to see what new mysteries await Maomao, read on to find out all the information you need about the release schedule and streaming platforms for The Apothecary Diaries Season 2.

What is The Apothecary Diaries about?

Maomao, a passionate apothecary from the city’s red-light district, finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the opulent yet treacherous world of the Imperial Palace.

Kidnapped and sold into servitude, she initially aims to endure her two years of indentured labor unnoticed. However, Maomao’s inquisitive nature and medical expertise are soon put to the test when a mysterious illness afflicts the emperor’s newborns and concubines.

Despite her desire for anonymity, her successful investigations catches the eye of Jinshi, a powerful eunuch. Intrigued by her talents, Jinshi draws Maomao deeper into the intrigues of the court, where she becomes an unlikely solver of royal mysteries.

The Apothecary Diaries season 1 recap

Kidnapped from her herb farm, Maomao finds herself sold into servitude at the emperor’s Eastern Palace, a place known for housing the emperor’s most favored concubines.

Despite her initial fear, Maomao sees a budding opportunity. Keeping her knowledge of medicine to herself, she takes on menial tasks while secretly observing the palace goings-on.

Her keen eye for detail and medical expertise soon come into play when a mysterious illness strikes the emperor’s newborn heirs. Suspecting poison, she devises a clever way to reveal the culprit. This act catches the attention of Jinshi, a powerful eunuch who oversees the palace.

Recognizing Maomao’s potential, Jinshi promotes her to become a lady-in-waiting for Lady Gyokuyou, the emperor’s Precious Consort. This new role allows Maomao to use her skills as a poison taster, a task she finds strangely enjoyable.

Life in the palace is far from ordinary. Maomao’s days are filled with solving various mysteries and using her knowledge to carefully navigate court politics. She uncovers a food poisoning incident at a soldier’s camp, exposes a lady faking a sleepwalking illness, and even devises a special stimulant for Jinshi (with interesting consequences). Through these experiences, Maomao earns the trust and respect of those around her.

One seemingly routine event takes a dangerous turn during a grand garden party. Maomao’s quick thinking saves a concubine from poisoned soup. The investigation leads them to discover a web of deceit and hidden agendas within the palace walls. Maomao learns that seemingly harmless objects like hairpins can carry hidden messages, and even trusted attendants can harbor dark secrets.

During her time at the palace, Maomao’s past catches up with her. A flashback reveals her life before the kidnapping, hinting at more to Maomao’s mysterious past.

The Apothecary Diaries season 2 episode 1 release date and time

The Apothecary Diaries season 2 episode 1 airs on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11:00 p.m. JST (Japanese Standard Time).

The release times and schedule for international viewers vary based on their time zone.

Where to watch The Apothecary Diaries

The Apothecary Diaries is available on the following platforms:

Availability may differ depending on your region.

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