If fans were captivated byThe Apothecary Diariesand find themselves yearning for more anime with lush historical settings, political intrigue, clever heroines, and slow-burning romance, they are in good company.The Apothecary Diariesis a standout series that offers a heady blend of mystery, period drama, and character-driven storytelling, and thankfully, Crunchyroll is brimming with similar gems that scratch the same narrative itches.
While each of these series brings something uniquely its own,they all share thematic or tonal threads withThe Apothecary Diaries, which make them perfect next picks.Whether fans are drawn to the courtly politics and imperial backdrops, the personal growth of resilient female leads, or just appreciate well-crafted stories with a historical or fantasy touch, there are many anime series for them. And Crunchyroll is just the place to go for viewers looking for their next anime fix afterThe Apothecary Diaries.
WhileVinland Sagamight seem like an unconventional recommendation at first, given its gritty Viking setting and intense action sequences, it shares a deep commitment to nuanced storytelling and political complexity. Much like Maomao inThe Apothecary Diaries, Thorfinn embarks on a journey of self-discovery, where survival, morality, and identity intertwine in complex ways. The series does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of its time, but beneath the violence lies a compelling exploration of human nature and redemption.
Both series take place in rigid, hierarchical societies where knowledge can be both a weapon and a salvation.InVinland Saga, this is represented through philosophical dialogues and strategic thinking, whileThe Apothecary Diariesdoes it through Maomao’s medical expertise and deductive skills. If viewers are interested in character arcs that challenge protagonists to grow beyond vengeance or complacency,Vinland Sagawill leave a lasting impression.
This fantasy romance isa delightful complement toThe Apothecary Diaries, especially for those who enjoyed Maomao’s unexpected journey from servant to someone of influence and her forbidden romance with Jinshi.Sugar Apple Fairy Talefollows Anne, a spirited candy artisan, in a world where fairies are treated as second-class citizens. Determined to become a Silver Sugar Master, Anne navigates guild politics, class tensions, and the prickly dynamics of her relationship with the brooding fairy warrior, Challe.
The series excels in portraying a heroine who gains power through intellect and compassion rather than brute force. Anne’s evolving dynamic with Challe has asimilar slow-burn appeal to Maomao and Jinshi’s relationship. Add in a visually stunning world rich with historical and fantasy flourishes, andSugar Apple Fairy Taleoffers a heartwarming yet complex narrative full of courage, perseverance, and emotional growth.
8The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent
Anime Series by Diomedéa; Based on the Light Novel by Yuka Tachibana
For fans ofThe Apothecary Diarieswho enjoy court intrigue and competent heroinesquietly rising in rank,The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotentis a must-watch. The story centers on Sei, a modern woman summoned to a fantasy world as a “Saint.” Initially overlooked, Sei forges her own path by applying her scientific background and gentle demeanor to heal others and becoming indispensable within the kingdom’s palace.
Sei’s journey mirrors Maomao’s in how she gains respect and influence through knowledge, humility, and integrity.The series focuses less on action and more on interpersonal relationships, medicinal practices, and soft political maneuvering. Its relaxed pacing, elegant visuals, and romantic undertones make it a satisfying spiritual cousin toThe Apothecary Diaries, especially for those who enjoy watching smart women quietly change the world around them.
Nina the Starry Brideis a stunning josei animethat tells the tale of a street-smart orphan who is plucked from poverty and thrust into royal life after being mistaken for a princess.The main theme of adapting to a treacherous palace environment will resonate deeply with fans ofThe Apothecary Diaries.Nina must quickly learn to read the room, navigate hidden agendas, and survive the politics of an empire that sees her as both a pawn and a potential asset.
Much like Maomao, Nina’s strength lies in her keen observation and emotional resilience inNina the Starry Bride.
Much like Maomao, Nina’s strength lies in her keen observation and emotional resilience inNina the Starry Bride. While her background is less academic and more intuitive, her ability to understand people and adapt to changing circumstances is just as compelling. There is also a strong romantic undercurrent that does not overpower the main story but enriches it, offering an emotional anchor to the unfolding drama. If fans loved Maomao’s rise in the imperial court, Nina’s journey is equally gripping.
This lesser-known gem shares many of the same DNA strands asThe Apothecary Diaries, particularly its elaborate world-building and deep court intrigue.Set in a society of shape-shifting raven people,YATAGARASUexplores dynastic politics, tradition, and loyalty through the eyes of Yukiya, a young noble chosen to serve the imperial prince.The show expertly blends the mystical with the political, creating a unique fantasy world grounded in very human dilemmas.
Like Maomao, Yukiya is initially out of his depth but quickly proves himself through intelligence and empathy. The series leans heavily on the intricacies of loyalty and service within a rigid hierarchy, themes that echo Maomao’s complex relationship with Jinshi and the palace elite. With its careful attention to setting, symbolism, and courtly dynamics,YATAGARASUhas a richly textured narrative that makes it impossible to stop watching.
5Snow White with the Red Hair
Anime Series by Bones; Based on the Manga by Sorata Akiduki
A classic in the fantasy-romance genre,Snow White with the Red Hairis a beautiful blend of courtly life, romance, and self-discovery. Shirayuki, a herbalist with vibrant red hair, escapes her home kingdom to avoid being claimed as a concubine and ends up in the court of Prince Zen. Her determination to become a court herbalist mirrors Maomao’s professional ambitions and fierce independence.
What sets this series apart is its warm, character-focused storytelling and lush visual presentation.LikeThe Apothecary Diaries, it balances gentle romance with themes of personal growth and social mobility. Shirayuki and Maomao both earn their places not through magic or combat, but through wit, compassion, and unrelenting hard work.Their stories remind viewers that strength can be quiet and that the most compelling heroines often wield scalpels and books instead of swords.
Ifthe introspective tone and emotional moments ofThe Apothecary Diarieswere part of its appeal to fans, thenFrieren: Beyond Journey’s Endshould be next on the watch list. This contemplative fantasy follows Frieren, an elven mage reflecting on the meaning of life, legacy, and relationships after the death of her hero companions. Rather than focusing on grand battles, the series dives deep into memory, grief, and quiet moments of growth.
Both series are deliberate in pace and rich in subtext, rewarding viewers who appreciate character depth over spectacle.Frieren, like Maomao, is analytical and emotionally reserved, but over time reveals a depth of feeling and a desire for connection.The gentle world-building and philosophical undertones makeFrieren: Beyond Journey’s Enda poignant, introspective companion piece toThe Apothecary Diaries.
This epic fantasy combines the political drama ofThe Apothecary Diarieswith sweeping action and adventure.Yona of the Dawnfollows a princess named Yona as she flees her palace after a bloody coup and sets out to reclaim her kingdom. What begins as a survival story evolves into a tale of leadership, resilience, and reclaiming agency in a patriarchal world.
WhileYona of the Dawnhas a lot more action and combat, its heart lies in the same place asThe Apothecary Diaries, with the journey of a young woman navigating the dangerous currents of power.
Yona’s transformation from a sheltered royal to a capable leader echoes Maomao’s evolution from a servant to a key palace player. Both series excel at portraying strong female leads who grow through hardship and make allies through intellect and empathy. WhileYona of the Dawnhas a lot more action and combat, its heart lies in the same place asThe Apothecary Diaries, with the journey of a young woman navigating the dangerous currents of power.
One of the most spiritually similar series toThe Apothecary Diaries,Ascendance of a Bookwormis a must-watch for anyone who loved Maomao’s scientific curiosity and clever problem-solving.The story follows Myne, a book-loving girl reincarnated in a medieval world with little literacy. Despite her frail health, she is determined to create books and make knowledge a priority in a society that undervalues both.
Both Maomao and Myne share a deep respect for knowledge and a belief in its power to transform lives. Each episode is filled with the joys of discovery, experimentation, and overcoming social obstacles through brainpower rather than brawn. Add in a richly detailed world and subtle court politics, andAscendance of a Bookwormdelivers the same satisfying mix of intellect, heart, and determination.
This mystical historical drama closely mirrors the atmosphere and court politics ofThe Apothecary Diaries. Raven of the Inner Palace centers on the mysterious Liu Shouxue, a consort who lives apart from the emperor’s harem and secretly solves supernatural cases. The blend of mystery, ritual, and emotional restraint will feel very familiar to Maomao fans.
Both series explore hidden power within the palace walls, often through the eyes of women who exist on the margins but wield significant influence. Liu Shouxue, like Maomao, unravels secrets through observation and intellect, and both characters operate under layers of secrecy and danger. If fans are craving another intricate, atmospheric tale set within an imperial court likeThe Apothecary Diaries,Raven of the Inner Palaceis a perfect follow-up.
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WHERE TO WATCH
The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, sold from her peaceful life to serve in the emperor’s palace. Her unique talents emerge when she solves a medical crisis involving the imperial heirs, attracting the attention of Jinshi, a palace official, and launching her into the complex world of palace intrigue and mysteries.
