Even in such a short scene, viewers found themselves captivated by Maomao’s image of an “annoyed Jinshi.” Online, comments such as “Sulky Jinshi-sama is so cute,” “If she gave it away he’d totally sulk, lol,” “Is he a little kid or what? lol,” and “Pouting Jinshi-kun” quickly spread.

The Apothecary Diaries is an anime based on the light novel of the same name by Hyuganatsu. It has also been adapted into manga in two monthly magazines, and the series’ total circulation has exceeded 40 million copies. The TV anime aired for two consecutive cours starting in October 2023, and became a hit for its palace mystery drama centered on Maomao, who works as a food taster, as well as the comedic interactions between Maomao and Jinshi. The anime is set to return for its second season in January 2025, with a sequel announced for July. In addition, Universal Studios Japan is currently holding a limited-time attraction, “The Apothecary Diaries Mystery Walk: Investigate the Mysterious Medicine,” available until January 4, 2026. The series’ first online game adaptation has also been confirmed, and its popularity continues to grow.

(C)Hyuganatsu, Imagica Infos/"The Apothecary Diaries"Project

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