The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 has captivated anime fans with its blend of historical intrigue, medical mysteries, and the sharp-witted protagonist, Maomao. Premiering on January 10, 2025, this season continues to follow Maomao’s adventures in the imperial palace of a fictional Tang dynasty-inspired China. Available on Crunchyroll, the 24-episode season is set to conclude on July 4, 2025, leaving fans eager for more. Here’s everything you need to know about Season 2, its release schedule, and what makes Maomao’s story so compelling.
What Is The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 About?
The Apothecary Diaries, based on Natsu Hyūga’s light novel series, follows Maomao, a 17-year-old apothecary’s daughter kidnapped and sold as a servant to the imperial palace. Using her extensive knowledge of medicine and poisons, she solves mysteries alongside Jinshi, a charismatic palace official. Season 2 ramps up the stakes with new conspiracies, including a merchant caravan sparking strange incidents and threats to the emperor’s consorts. Maomao’s cunning and Jinshi’s charm drive the story, blending drama, romance, and political intrigue.
The season explores darker themes like betrayal and rebellion, with key moments like Maomao’s kidnapping and the Shi clan’s schemes. Despite heavy topics, the anime balances them with lighthearted moments, making it accessible yet mature.
Release Schedule and Where to Watch
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 airs new episodes every Friday at 5:15 PM BST (9:00 AM EST) on Crunchyroll, with subtitles available immediately. The English dub, which began on January 24, 2025, releases episodes two weeks later. The season spans 24 episodes, split into two cours, and will end on July 4, 2025. Here’s the confirmed schedule for the remaining episodes:
- Episode 22: June 13, 2025
- Episode 23: June 27, 2025 (delayed from June 20 due to a special program)
- Episode 24: July 4, 2025
Crunchyroll streams the series worldwide (except select Asian regions, where Netflix offers it). A Crunchyroll subscription provides ad-free access, while the first season is also available for purchase on Apple’s store or Prime Video.
Why Maomao Stands Out
Maomao, voiced by Aoi Yūki, is the heart of the series. Unlike typical anime heroines, she’s practical, unromantic, and fiercely independent. Her freckled, plain appearance defies stereotypes, and her focus on medicine over romance—despite Jinshi’s advances—makes her relatable and refreshing. Fans praise her as a strong female character who earns respect through intelligence, not just bravado.
Season 2 deepens Maomao’s story, revealing more about her past and her ties to the palace. Her interactions with characters like Shisui and the villainous Shenmei add emotional weight, while her investigations uncover secrets that threaten the empire.
Production and Reception
Produced by Toho Animation Studio and OLM, Season 2 is directed by Akinori Fudesaka, with stunning visuals and a soundtrack by Satoru Kōsaki, Kevin Penkin, and Alisa Okehazama. The opening themes, “Hyakkaryōran” by Lilas Ikuta and “Kusuhiki” by Mrs. Green Apple, complement the series’ tone.
The anime has been a hit, ranking sixth in Anime News Network’s Top 10 Anime of 2024 and earning 13 nominations at the 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, including Anime of the Year. Its manga and light novel adaptations are also best-sellers, with the manga winning the 2024 Piccoma Award.
What’s Next?
As Season 2 nears its finale, speculation about a third season is growing, fueled by rumors of a post-credits tease. The light novel provides ample material, but no official announcement has been made. For now, fans can enjoy Maomao’s current mysteries and look forward to a Universal Studios Japan attraction featuring her and Jinshi, running from July 1, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
Why You Should Watch
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 excels with its rich storytelling, complex characters, and gorgeous animation. Maomao’s unique perspective and the palace’s intricate plots make it a must-watch for anime fans. Whether you’re drawn to mysteries, historical settings, or strong heroines, this series delivers. Catch up on Crunchyroll and join Maomao’s journey before the season ends on July 4, 2025.
