The anime series The Apothecary Diaries celebrated the second anniversary of its first episode’s broadcast with the release of a commemorative promotional video. Alongside the announcement, it was revealed that Season 3 will air in two parts, the first in October 2026 and the second in April 2027, while a theatrical film will open in December 2026. The film will be the series’ first and will feature a completely new story written by the original author, Natsu Hyuuga.

The story follows Maomao, the apothecary’s daughter with an obsessive fascination for poisons and medicines, and Jinshi, a beautiful and enigmatic eunuch, as they tackle a series of mysterious incidents within the imperial palace. Based on the light novel by Natsu Hyuuga with illustrations by Touko Shino, the anime’s second season concluded on July 4, when the production of a continuation was first teased.

The 2nd Anniversary PV begins with Maomao’s iconic line that captivated fans: “This is poison.” The video revisits memorable scenes from the emotional first and second seasons, set to the series’ opening themes — “Hana ni Natte” by Ryokuoushoku Shakai, “Ambivalent” by Uru, “Hyakka Ryouran” by Lila Ikuta, and “Kusushiki” by Mrs. GREEN APPLE. It also officially announces the production of Season 3 and the new film, as well as details for a theatrical recap screening and additional guest appearances at the special event.

Season 3 will depict ominous signs of a natural disaster threatening the nation, the appearance of a mysterious shrine maiden, and the heavy responsibilities placed upon Jinshi as an imperial prince. The story will move beyond the inner palace to the common world, where Maomao and Jinshi will face new trials. The season will again be directed by Akinori Fudesaka, who also helmed Season 2.

The newly released super teaser visual features a striking image of Maomao with a determined gaze, surrounded by what appears to be flames. The tagline, “In those eyes flickers the ultimate mystery,” hints at an intense and captivating new development to come.

To commemorate the 2nd anniversary, comments were shared by Natsu Hyuuga, Aoi Yuki (voice of Maomao), and Takeo Otsuka (voice of Jinshi).

Yuki expressed her excitement, saying, “I’m thrilled that I can finally say it — Season 3 and a movie! I thought Season 2 ended so beautifully that it might mark the conclusion, so I was both shocked and delighted to hear we’d continue right away. Not only that, but there’s a theatrical version too!? And an original story written by the author herself!? It’s unbelievable! I’m truly looking forward to it. I hope fans will recommend The Apothecary Diaries to their friends while waiting for the release.”

Otsuka added, “Right after Season 2 ended, we announced the continuation. But now, it’s not just Season 3 — we’re also getting a movie! I can’t wait to see what kinds of stories unfold and how Maomao and Jinshi will grow. Thank you to everyone who has continued supporting this series for two years since the anime began airing. There’s still so much more fun to come, so let’s continue enjoying The Apothecary Diaries together!”

The theatrical recap screenings will begin on February 15, 2026, and will be held in five cities across Japan, screening six episodes every two weeks until the end of May. Stage greetings by the cast will be held on February 15 for Season 1 and April 12 for Season 2. For Season 1, Aoi Yuki (Maomao), Takeo Otsuka (Jinshi), and Takuya Kirimoto (Rakan) will appear; for Season 2, Aoi Yuki, Takeo Otsuka, and Asami Seto (Shisui / Loulan) will attend. Further details will be announced later.

Additionally, the exhibition of The Apothecary Diaries, which began in Tokyo in late March 2025, will tour various cities across Asia. It will start in Hong Kong in November, followed by mainland China, Bangkok, Thailand, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A new Asia-exclusive visual was unveiled, along with news that exclusive exhibit areas will be added for the tour. The Hong Kong venue will host the event from November 2, 2025, to January 11, 2026.

The first major live event for the series, titled The Apothecary Diaries Special Event – Summer Garden Party 2026, will take place at the Pacifico Yokohama National Hall on August 15, 2026. In addition to Aoi Yuki and Takeo Otsuka, six additional voice actors will appear: Katsuyuki Konishi (Gaoshun), Atsumi Tanezaki (Gyokuyo), Asami Seto (Shisui / Loulan), Misaki Kuno (Xiaolan), Tatsumaru Tachibana (Basen), and Toshiyuki Toyonaga (Rahan).

The event will feature live dubbing performances from Seasons 1 and 2, a new drama reading, and cast talks. Priority tickets for the event are included with Season 2 Blu-ray Volume 4, which went on sale on October 15, 2025. Ticket applications will be accepted until January 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Source : ORICON NEWS