6 reasons why 'The Apothecary Diaries' is my new hyperfixation!

The Apothecary Diaries season 2 returns with Jinshi's intensifying devotion to Maomao and so much more!

'The Apothecary Diaries' takes us into a fictionalized Imperial China inspired by the Tang Dynasty, following the sharp-witted Maomao, a skilled apothecary who's unexpectedly sold into servitude within the opulent but treacherous Imperial Palace. There, her keen observational skills and extensive medical knowledge quickly draw her into the palace's intricate web of mysteries and political intrigue. As she navigates delicate situations and unravels hidden secrets, she catches the attention of the enigmatic and strikingly handsome head eunuch, Jinshi, a man who is far more than he initially appears. Based on a sprawling, 14-volume light novel series, this anime masterfully blends captivating character dynamics, particularly the intriguing push-and-pull between Maomao and Jinshi, with meticulously crafted mysteries and a rich, historically inspired setting.

As an anime fan, finding a show that truly hits all the right notes feels like discovering a hidden gem. It’s rare to come across something that perfectly blends mystery, romance, and a compelling story without falling into the usual isekai or over-the-top action tropes. But Apothecary Diaries has everything - Jinshi’s quiet, unspoken love for Maomao, his struggle with his own identity while being completely drawn to her, and Maomao’s pure passion for medicine and solving palace mysteries. 

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Here's what stood out for me in the show so far!

Maomao is no damsel in distress, she handles everything like a boss! 

Maomao isn’t just a breath of fresh air; she’s a whole storm. So many anime heroines just kind of exist, waiting for someone else to take charge. But not Maomao. She’s smart, she knows so much about medicine, and she can handle things on her own without needing anyone to save her. I mean, watching her figure things out and solve those crazy palace mysteries is just so engaging. Her character development is honestly one of the best parts of the show.

The slow burn romance between Jinshi and Mamao

Another reason The Apothecary Diaries completely captivated me is the slow-burn romance. Jinshi yearns for Maomao for years on end. Jinshi’s feelings for Maomao come through in the little things he does for her, like giving her the rare ox gallstone. It’s clear he cares about her deeply, but he struggles to put his emotions into words, which makes their connection even more interesting.

A detailed glimpse into the Chinese Tang Dynasty

This anime offers such a unique and immersive look into the historical setting of the Chinese Tang Dynasty, specifically the world inside the imperial palace. It does such an incredible job of showcasing the complex power dynamics within the palace, where every decision the emperor makes isn’t just about his personal desires - it’s deeply influenced by the consorts, factions, and political maneuvering of the court.

Neat aesthetic details and a break from Isekai anime

One of the biggest reasons I'm absolutely obsessed with Apothecary Diaries is that it's such a refreshing break from all the isekai and over-the-top action anime that's almost everywhere right now. Instead of some overpowered hero swinging a sword, we get Maomao, whose superpower is her brain. The tension comes from her solving mysteries, figuring out medical puzzles, and navigating the crazy political landscape of the palace. 

The series is filled with clever exchanges, hidden truths, and complex social dynamics, making it feel fresh and exciting. The animation is absolutely stunning as well. The palace is beautifully designed with rich colors, intricate details, breathtaking gardens, and elegant costumes. It feels like stepping into a living Tang Dynasty painting.

Lihua's arc is ridiculously empowering 

Her journey through the devastating loss of her infant son is emotional yet her subsequent healing and growth, significantly aided by Maomao, are incredibly empowering. This development is strikingly evident in her actions. While she may have been passive in the face of a previous attempt on her life in the first season, her powerful confrontation with Lady Shin in the second season, including taking action against her when she tried to induce Lihua's abortion, demonstrates a remarkable transformation into a woman actively fighting for her well-being and principles. Coupled with her undeniably beautiful character design, Lihua's evolution from despair to resilience makes her a truly compelling and inspiring figure within the series.

Honest adaptation of the novel

The absolute best point for me, as someone who's devoured all 14 volumes, is how faithfully the anime adapts the beloved story. It's such a joy to see the intricate plot points, subtle character nuances, and the overall atmosphere I cherished in the books, brought to life so beautifully. The animators and music composers clearly understand and respect the source material, enhancing the experience without ever feeling like they're changing the core of what makes The Apothecary Diaries so special. 

Have you watched this anime yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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