The Apothecary Diaries is finally back! Season 2 is one of Winter 2025’s most anticipated anime, promising romance and captivating medical mysteries. The success of Season 1 skyrocketed, pulling anime fans into the light novel series with its engaging characters, compelling protagonist, and intriguing mysteries.

Maomao and Jinshi’s budding romance in The Apothecary Diaries. [Credit: Toho]

The Apothecary Diaries is a historical mystery series centered on a young apothecary named Maomao. The anime steals the spotlight with its unique story and characters, where even beyond the central romance, the side characters have their own charm.

Amid the excitement for The Apothecary Diaries Season 2, the creditless opening animation has premiered on TOHO Animation’s YouTube channel, just hours before the anime’s highly anticipated debut. The Season 2 opening captures the charm of its predecessor but falls short of the widespread acclaim and global impact that Season 1’s opening achieved.

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Opening struggles to match the brilliance of Season 1

Hailed by many as one of the most beautiful anime series of 2024, The Apothecary Diaries is based on the titular light novel series written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Touko Shino. It began serialization in Shosetsuka ni Naro in 2011 and was later acquired by Shufunotomo.

Maomao gives Jinshi the blue rose in The Apothecary Diaries. [Credit: Toho]

Avid romance anime fans have gravitated toward The Apothecary Diaries due to the undeniable chemistry between Jinshi and Maomao throughout the series.

With the arrival of Season 2, the anime opening offers a glimpse into what lies ahead, hinting at deeper mysteries, compelling character development, and the continuation of the intrigue that made the first season so beloved.

Related 4 Major Arcs The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Opening Teases That Fans Aren’t Ready For

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 unveils its creditless opening theme, “Hyakka Ryoran (Splendid Bounty),” performed by Lilas Ikuta of YOASOBI.

Maomao explaining poisons in The Apothecary Diaries. [Credit: Toho]

As shared on The Apothecary Diaries website, Lilas Ikuta expressed her honor in performing the Season 2 opening after experiencing Season 1 firsthand.

While crafting the song, she aimed to infuse fresh energy into the anime, capturing the same excitement she felt when immersed in its story and characters.

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Opening Theme: “Hyakka Ryouran” by Lilas Ikuta byu/SamuraiShinsen inKusuriyaNoHitorigoto

The Season 2 opening of The Apothecary Diaries is creating a buzz online, with fans praising its captivating visuals and music.

However, it has yet to surpass the highly acclaimed Season 1 opening, which made waves globally, resonating with anime enthusiasts, and earning its place as one of the most beloved anime themes of the year.

Maomao heals a sick Lihua. [Credit: Toho]

The opening song “Hana ni Natte” by Ryokuoushoku Shakai served as the first theme for The Apothecary Diaries anime, used from episodes 1 through 12. The song became a global sensation, transcending language barriers to capture the hearts of fans everywhere, becoming an unforgettable favorite.

Gaoshun: The most mysterious and intriguing side-character

Gaoshun is one of the older side characters, and he has a very paternal air to his personality. While Maomao and Jinshi’s romance plays a central role, Gaoshun emerges as one of the most intriguing characters, winning fans’ hearts as the story unfolds.

Gaoshun from the anime. [Credit: Toho Animation]

Gaoshun often serves as the deadpan sounding board for Jinshi and Maomao. His exasperation with their antics provides plenty of humor, making him both entertaining and an essential part of the story.

Related The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Opening Hides a Big Secret About Maomao’s Feelings for Jinshi

While he is a supporting character, he’s actually a favorite of many fans for his serious but gentle demeanor.

Gaoshun with Maomao and Jinshi. [Credit: Toho Animation]

The director of The Apothecary Diaries has called Gaoshun their favorite character, even over the main lead, highlighting his popularity. On the surface, Gaoshun seems calm, aloof, and capable, but beneath it all, he harbors a fear of women, stemming from his overly bossy wife and daughter, which adds to his character’s charm.

The Apothecary Diaries is available to stream on Crunchyroll
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