10 Anime Like The Apothecary Diaries to Watch Now
“The Apothecary Diaries” (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) has captivated anime fans with its rich historical setting, intricate court intrigue, and a highly intelligent female protagonist who uses her knowledge of medicine and observation skills to solve mysteries.
If you’re looking for more anime with similar elements—be it strong heroines, historical settings, or mystery-solving narratives—here are ten recommendations that you will definitely enjoy.
Table of Contents
10. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
| Japanese Title | Sousou no Frieren |
| Genres | Adventure, Drama, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2023 |
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End and The Apothecary Diaries share several similarities, making it a great alternative for fans of Maomao’s journey. Both anime feature an interesting female protagonist—Frieren, an elven mage reflecting on the past, and Maomao, a brilliant young apothecary uncovering palace mysteries.
Set in a medieval fantasy world, Frieren offers a deeply emotional and introspective narrative, focusing on the passage of time and the weight of memories. Much like The Apothecary Diaries, the story is elevated by its well-developed supporting cast, each with their own compelling stories. The enchanting soundtrack in both series further enhances the immersive experience.
9. Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective
| Japanese Title | Ameku Takao no Suiri Karte |
| Genres | Mystery |
| Release Date | 2025 |
If you enjoyed Maomao’s sharp intellect and medical expertise, then Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective is another must-watch. The protagonist, like Maomao, has extensive knowledge of chemistry and medicine, which she uses to solve perplexing cases. Her keen observation skills and analytical mind make her an engaging lead character, much like Maomao, who unravels courtly conspiracies.
The anime delves into the intricacies of medical science and crime-solving, offering a thrilling experience filled with deduction, mystery, and intrigue. Both protagonists are driven by their passion for their respective fields, making for an intellectually stimulating watch.
8. Ōoku: The Inner Chambers
| Japanese Title | Oooku |
| Genres | Historical, Samurai |
| Release Date | 2023 |
Both Ōoku: The Inner Chambers and The Apothecary Diaries take place within the secluded world of an imperial court, featuring elaborate hierarchies and hidden agendas. While The Apothecary Diaries revolves around Maomao’s navigation through a court filled with concubines and eunuchs, Ōoku presents a gender-reversed harem dynamic where women hold power over men.
Though the themes differ—Ōoku explores gender roles and power struggles while The Apothecary Diaries leans into mystery-solving—the richly detailed historical settings and political intrigue make them comparable in atmosphere and depth.
7. Hyouka
| Genres | Mystery, Slice of Life |
| Release Date | 2012 |
Mystery lovers who enjoyed Maomao’s investigations will find Hyouka equally compelling. Both anime focus on protagonists who possess superior analytical skills but initially have little interest in getting involved in mysteries.
Oreki Houtarou from Hyouka and Maomao share a similar apathetic yet highly intelligent nature, only helping when either pressured or personally intrigued. The slow-paced yet deeply engaging storytelling, combined with stunning visuals and intricate mysteries, makes Hyouka an excellent choice for fans of The Apothecary Diaries.
6. Ascendance of a Bookworm
| Japanese Title | Honzuki no Gekokujou |
| Genres | Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2019 |
Both Ascendance of a Bookworm and The Apothecary Diaries follow young women with extensive knowledge beyond their peers, which they use to improve their circumstances. Myne, like Maomao, is thrown into an unfamiliar environment and must use her intelligence to navigate the challenges before her.
While Myne’s journey is centered around her passion for books in a medieval society that lacks widespread literacy, Maomao applies her medical expertise to uncover courtly mysteries. Their resourcefulness and determination make these stories equally compelling.
5. The Story of Saiunkoku
| Japanese Title | Saiunkoku Monogatari |
| Genres | Adventure, Fantasy, Romance |
| Release Date | 2006 |
Set in an imperial palace, The Story of Saiunkoku and The Apothecary Diaries both follow intelligent and strong-willed female protagonists who find themselves entangled in political and societal issues. Shuurei, like Maomao, is sent to the royal court and uses her sharp mind to bring about change.
Both anime require some understanding of imperial politics to fully appreciate the depth of the storytelling, and fans of intricate world-building and historical drama will love the rich narratives they offer.
4. Yatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master
| Japanese Title | Karasu wa Aruji wo Erabanai |
| Genres | Drama, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2024 |
If you’re searching for something similar to The Apothecary Diaries while waiting for the next season, Yatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master is a great pick. It shares a similar setting and aesthetic, featuring palace intrigue, mysterious occurrences, and a deeply immersive historical world.
With supernatural elements such as shape-shifting ravens, this anime adds a unique twist to the historical drama, making it a fresh yet familiar experience for fans of Maomao’s courtly investigations.
3. Snow White with the Red Hair
| Japanese Title | Akagami no Shirayuki-hime |
| Genres | Drama, Romance |
| Release Date | 2015 |
There are two major factors that make Snow White with the Red Hair a great alternative: the protagonist and the setting. Both Shirayuki and Maomao are herbalists with deep knowledge of medicine, and both find themselves in unfamiliar yet politically charged environments.
Set in a royal court with historical themes, the anime features an engaging romance alongside its protagonist’s journey. If you enjoyed the blend of intellect, resilience, and slow-burn romance in The Apothecary Diaries, this anime is sure to delight you.
2. Yona of the Dawn
| Japanese Title | Akatsuki no Yona |
| Genres | Adventure, Fantasy, Romance |
| Release Date | 2014 |
Both Yona of the Dawn and The Apothecary Diaries are heavily driven by their female leads. Yona, like Maomao, embarks on a transformative journey where she must rely on her wits and allies to survive.
While Yona of the Dawn leans more towards adventure and action compared to the mystery elements of The Apothecary Diaries, both anime excel in character development, political intrigue, and engaging storytelling that keeps audiences invested.
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10 Anime Like Yona of the Dawn
1. Raven of the Inner Palace
| Japanese Title | Koukyuu no Karasu |
| Genres | Fantasy, Mystery |
| Release Date | 2022 |
The Raven of Inner Palace (Kokyu no Karasu) is arguably the closest match to The Apothecary Diaries. Set in an ancient Chinese-inspired palace, it follows a sharp-witted female protagonist, the enigmatic Raven Consort, who solves supernatural mysteries within the inner court.
Much like Maomao, she is independent, intelligent, and deeply involved in palace intrigues. With its stunning visuals, mystical elements, and addictive storytelling, Raven of the Inner Palace is a must-watch for anyone who loved The Apothecary Diaries.
Conclusion
If you enjoyed The Apothecary Diaries, these ten anime will offer you a mix of historical intrigue, brilliant female leads, and engaging mysteries. Whether you’re drawn to palace drama, intelligent protagonists, or methodical problem-solving, these series provide captivating experiences that will keep you entertained.
Which of these anime have you seen, and which ones are you planning to watch next? Let us know in the comments!
