About “The Apothecary Diaries” in a few words:

“The Apothecary Diaries” is an anime series that transports viewers to a fictional realm reminiscent of Imperial China. It follows the story of Maomao, a young girl with a background in apothecary work in the red-light district, who finds herself kidnapped and sold into servitude at the imperial palace. Within the palace’s walls, she employs her knowledge of medicine and pharmacology, secretly assisting the head eunuch in solving medical mysteries and navigating the intricate politics of the court. This series blends elements of drama, mystery, and historical intrigue, showcasing Maomao’s intelligence, resourcefulness, and unwavering curiosity as she delves into the depths of human nature and the complexities of royal life.

Meet the characters from The Apothecary Diaries

Jinshi

Jinshi is the kind of quiet, bookish official who somehow becomes central whenever something needs a calm head — and yet he’s always two steps away from doing something wildly impulsive, which is the best part. He’s polite, precise, probably owns too many brushes and ink stones, and has this weird habit of straightening other people’s collars when they’re not looking. Supposedly unflappable, but also the one who will secretly test a new medicine on himself first (don’t ask). I love that he’s both a bit of a stickler for rules and also the guy who’ll smuggle you midnight snacks if you’re having a bad day.

Maomao

Maomao is absolutely the chaotic, brilliant heart of the story — curious to the point of danger and somehow always thinking three steps ahead about poisons and insects and the anatomy of a hat. She’s blunt, sarcastic, deeply practical, and has this dry humor that sneaks up on you; also she loves weird little facts and will tell you about a plant at the worst possible moment. She can be oddly affectionate (in her own awkward way) and also weirdly sentimental about labels and jars — yes she names them, no you can’t touch them. Honestly she’s that friend who will save your life and then scold you for staining her robe; I live for her contradictions.

Gyokuyou

Gyokuyou gives regal, silk-scented vibes but also reads like someone who hoards secrets in her sleeves and then pets them like cats. Elegant, politically sharp, with a smile that can mean comfort or a trap — depends on which day of the week, really — she’s fascinating because she appears poised but is delightfully human under the lacquer. There’s a softness, though; she’s fond of small comforts (a warmed gown, a neat embroidery), and yet she’ll make a ruthless, deeply logical choice without blinking. I’m always suspicious of how many layers she has — literally and metaphorically — and also curious about the tiny laugh she tries not to let slip.

Ah-Duo

Ah-Duo is this solid, steady presence who’s all muscle and loyalty on the surface and then surprisingly nerdy about certain things (military formations? pottery? you choose). Gruff, protective, the kind who will carry your things and your secrets, but also will blush if you compliment his cooking — which he insists is “functional,” but tastes amazing, trust me. He’s practical to a fault, hates unnecessary drama, but will inexplicably start humming lullabies when everyone else is tense. Sometimes he’s suspiciously bad at reading poems and yet excellent at reading a room; charmingly inconsistent, as humans are.

Lihua

Lihua is sunshine wrapped in sleeves — bubbly, endlessly curious, and apparently allergic to staying still, though she can be sneakily cunning when needed. She spreads gossip like confetti and then will be the first to defend you in a crisis, which is why she’s oddly reliable despite seeming flighty. She has a collection of tiny hairpins and probably one questionable hat she insists is “vintage,” and she switches between being the world’s worst liar and the most sincere friend within five minutes. Basically she’s delightful, occasionally maddening, and secretly sharp as a pin when the palace needs someone to notice the little things.