The main trailer for Season 2 of The Apothecary Diaries has been released by TOHO animation, unveiling new cast members, music, and premiere details. The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Natsu Hyūga and Touko Shino’s light novel series will continue its intricate storytelling and captivating visuals starting January 10, 2024, airing on Nippon TV’s FRIDAY ANIME NIGHT programming block. Crunchyroll has confirmed it will stream the second season, ensuring fans worldwide can follow Maomao’s adventures.
New Cast and Theme Song Announcement
The trailer introduces Asami Seto as Shisui, a maid joining the palace’s colorful cast of characters. Adding to the excitement, the opening theme song, “Hyakkaryōran” (Splendid Bounty), will be performed by Lilas Ikuta, marking her debut as a solo artist in television anime. Fans may recognize Ikuta as the vocalist of YOASOBI, performing under the name “ikura.”
The talent behind the series is nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s a closer look:
| Role | Name | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Director | Norihiro Naganuma | The Ancient Magus’ Bride |
| Assistant Director | Akinori Fudesaka | Various TOHO projects |
| Music | Satoru Kousaki, Kevin Penkin, Arisa Okehazama | Made in Abyss, Vivy |
What to Expect from the new season of Apothecary Diaries
Season 2 will span two cours (quarters of a year), continuing the momentum from the first season that premiered in October 2023 and aired its second cour in January 2024. Directed by Norihiro Naganuma (The Ancient Magus’ Bride), the series has been praised for its stellar adaptation, combining meticulous script supervision, exquisite character designs by Yukiko Nakatani, and an evocative score by renowned composers Satoru Kousaki, Kevin Penkin, and Arisa Okehazama.
Plot Overview of Season 2
Set in the intricately hierarchical world of the Emperor’s rear palace (hougong), The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, a perceptive and resourceful apothecary kidnapped into palace service. Her exceptional knowledge of medicine and poison lands her the precarious role of a food taster for the Emperor’s favorite consort. The narrative weaves mystery, intrigue, and Maomao’s subtle rebellion against her circumstances, making it a standout in historical anime storytelling.
The Apothecary Diaries Background and Adaptations
Originally serialized on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website in 2011, the light novel series transitioned into print by Shufunotomo in 2014, featuring illustrations by Touko Shino. An ongoing manga adaptation by Nekokurage began in Square Enix’s Monthly Big Gangan magazine in 2017. Both the novels and manga are being published in English, with J-Novel Club handling the digital release and Square Enix Manga & Books publishing the print editions.
With its engaging characters, complex plots, and the rich cultural tapestry of its setting, The Apothecary Diaries has built a dedicated global fanbase eagerly awaiting the next chapter of Maomao’s story. The new trailer promises an expansion of this fascinating world, with fresh faces and a mesmerizing soundtrack setting the stage for another captivating season.
When and Where to Watch?
Mark your calendars! The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 premieres on January 10, 2024, at 11:00 p.m. JST on Nippon TV‘s FRIDAY ANIME NIGHT. Fans outside Japan can stream it on Crunchyroll, ensuring global accessibility.
Here’s a table showing the premiere date and time of The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 in different time zones:
| Region | Time Zone | Premiere Time | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | Japan Standard Time (JST) | 11:00 p.m. | January 10, 2024 |
| United States | Eastern Standard Time (EST) | 9:00 a.m. | January 10, 2024 |
| United States | Pacific Standard Time (PST) | 6:00 a.m. | January 10, 2024 |
| India | Indian Standard Time (IST) | 7:30 p.m. | January 10, 2024 |
| Europe | Central European Time (CET) | 3:00 p.m. | January 10, 2024 |
| Philippines | Philippine Time (PHT) | 10:00 p.m. | January 10, 2024 |
FAQs
- When will The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 premiere?
It will premiere on January 10, 2024, at 11:00 p.m. JST. - Who is performing the opening theme song for Apothecary Diaries Season 2?
Lilas Ikuta performs the opening song, “Hyakkaryōran.” - Where can I stream The Apothecary Diaries Season 2?
The season will be available for streaming on Crunchyroll . - What is the story of The Apothecary Diaries about?
It follows Maomao, an apothecary navigating palace intrigue and solving mysteries with her medical expertise. - Is the manga adaptation available in English?
Yes, the manga is published in English by Square Enix Manga & Books.
