The Apothecary Diaries Expands Universe: Split-Cour Season 3 and Original Film Slated for 2026-2027

Fans of the critically acclaimed historical mystery series, Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, known internationally as The Apothecary Diaries, have reason to rejoice. The highly anticipated third season of its anime adaptation has been officially confirmed for a split-cour release. The first segment is slated to premiere in October 2026 on Nippon Television, with the conclusion of the second part following in spring 2027. This continuation promises to uphold the exceptional production standards viewers have come to expect, with OLM and TOHO animation STUDIO returning to helm the project. These studios also produced the popular first and second seasons, which captivated audiences in Fall 2023 and Winter 2025 respectively. Each of these preceding seasons comprised 24 engaging episodes, setting a high bar for the upcoming installment.

Adding another layer of excitement for devotees of the imperial court's resident apothecary, an original anime film is also on the horizon. This cinematic event, featuring a brand-new narrative crafted by the original author Natsu Hyuuga herself, is scheduled for a December 2026 release. Intriguingly, this standalone movie is strategically positioned to bridge the gap between the two distinct cours of the third season, offering a unique narrative experience that will deepen the lore and intrigue surrounding Maomao's adventures.

The journey of The Apothecary Diaries began as an online novel on Shousetsuka ni Narou in 2011, steadily growing its fanbase before being published as a novel series under the Hero Bunko imprint, beautifully illustrated by Touko Shino. Its widespread appeal led to a manga adaptation, expertly drawn by Nekokurage, which commenced serialization in Big Gangan in 2017 and continues to enthrall readers, with Square Enix having released 15 volumes as of March 2025.

The anime's global reach is further solidified by Crunchyroll, which provides international streaming services, including English subtitles and an official dub, across numerous regions outside of Asia. In a testament to its burgeoning worldwide influence, an exclusive anime exhibition is set to embark on a tour across various Asian metropolises starting in November. This grand showcase will visit key cities such as Hong Kong, mainland China, Taipei, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur, highlighting the series' significant popularity in both the Japanese and expansive Chinese markets.

As the narrative of the astute apothecary set against the backdrop of imperial China unfolds, fans can eagerly anticipate a rich and multifaceted continuation through both the innovative split-cour third season and the immersive experience of the upcoming original film. This dual release strategy ensures a comprehensive and captivating extension of a beloved historical mystery.