Director of The Apothecary Diaries Reveals the Hidden Charm of On Jinshi in the Story
The upcoming season of The Apothecary Diaries anime adaptation, based on Natsu Hyuga and Touko Shino’s original light novels, is highly anticipated. The director has unveiled a crucial aspect of the bond between Maomao and Jinshi in the series, which has captivated viewers. The latter part of the season garnered attention for the deepening connection between Maomao and Jinshi.
Their central dynamic, showcasing a one-sided infatuation that may evolve further in the future, was a key factor in the success of The Apothecary Diaries during its first season. Director Norihiro Naganuma believes there is another essential element to their relationship. Jinshi’s necessity to conceal his double life from Maomao further strengthens their dynamic, making Jinshi more appealing to Maomao, according to Naganuma.
Speaking at Anime Expo 2024 earlier this summer, director Norihiro Naganuma discussed the connection between Jinshi and Maomao. He stated, “While Maomao is always very honest, I think Jinshi has a strong duality, with an exterior face masking his inner self from everyone. This personality trait attracts and complements Maomao, making it key to their relationship.”
Naganuma further elaborated, “Maomao’s strength comes not from innate abilities but from her knowledge, experience, strong sense of justice, and aversion to losing. She faces various situations using these traits.”
Set in a fictional country inspired by Imperial China during the Tang dynasty, The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, a young apothecary working in the red-light district. After being sold to the Imperial Palace as a servant, she retains her curious nature and works incognito until her term of service ends.
When she learns of a mysterious illness affecting the emperor’s newborns and concubines, Maomao investigates and solves the case using her apothecary skills. Despite her desire for anonymity, her actions attract the attention of a powerful eunuch, leading her to solve mysteries for the royal court.
Season 2 of The Apothecary Diaries is scheduled for release in 2025. Viewers can catch up on the first season exclusively on Crunchyroll before the new episodes debut.
The Apothecary Diaries was one of the top-selling light novel series in recent years, with millions of copies in circulation by 2023 and 2024.
ALSO READ: My Hero Academia Ending: What Is Ochaco’s Hero Initiative? Explained