10 Best Historical Anime if You Love The Apothecary Diaries

In a red-light district, a young apothecary’s daughter named Maomao is kidnapped and forced to work in the imperial palace as a servant. As she navigates through this world filled with bureaucratic complexities and strange occurrences, she conceals her literacy and medical expertise. However, when the emperor’s children fall gravely ill, she secretly works to cure them without revealing herself.

When the handsome eunuch Jinshi discovers her abilities, Maomao is appointed as Gyokuyou’s lady-in-waiting and poison taster. But as her skills become essential, she encounters risks that extend beyond the dangers of testing for poisons.

The “Apothecary Diaries” is filled with captivating mysteries that will keep you engaged and curious. Maomao’s systematic and intuitive investigations within the intriguing historical backdrop of an imperial palace influenced by ancient China promises to stir interest as she delves into resolving issues through less conventional methods. Regardless of whether you appreciate elements like mystery, romance, drama, or a thoughtful, reflective protagonist, if you’re seeking additional historical anime similar to “The Apothecary Diaries“, we have options for you.

1) Raven of the Inner Palace

The enigmatic figure known as the Raven Consort, Ryuu Jusetsu (Liu Shouxue), is simultaneously shrouded in awe and apprehension, with whispers of her presence echoing through the Imperial Palace. Choosing seclusion even from the emperor himself, she’s rumored to be an immortal sage endowed with mystical powers capable of locating lost items or communicating with the deceased. However, when the young emperor Ka Koshun (Xia Gaojun) seeks her aid in solving a perplexing case, this marks the first time she steps beyond the palace walls. Despite appearing irritated by continued visits and demands from Koshun, she finds herself unable to refuse his pleas. Contrary to her predecessor’s prophecy that she would remain solitary and never crave companionship, Jusetsu gradually warms up to Koshun and her new personal attendant Jiujiu, as the resolved cases draw unwanted attention from outsiders.

If you’re looking for a captivating series featuring a charismatic, practical protagonist unraveling mysteries within an Imperial Palace inspired by ancient China, and a subtle, respectful romance built on equal intellect, then Raven of the Inner Palace is an ideal choice for fans who also enjoy the intellectual intrigue of The Apothecary Diaries.

Raven of the Inner Palace can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

2) Mushi-Shi

Mushi are the simplest forms of life known, often overlooked by most people in their daily lives. However, they can convincingly imitate various plants, illnesses, and natural occurrences. It’s unclear what their purpose is beyond existing.

Ginko, a Mushi-shi or Mushi expert, travels to investigate these enigmatic creatures and their role in the evolutionary history, and assists those who encounter the supernatural entities that Mushi represent.

This supernatural soap opera offers a tantalizing air of enigma, ideal for admirers of “The Apothecary Diaries.” Just as Maomao manages poisons with composure, although the perils of the Mushi may present short-term high-risk situations, they’re nothing that the Mushi master can’t navigate with his cool and clever resilience. While equally flexible in its portrayal of historical eras as “The Apothecary Diaries,” but with a supernatural flair, the 19th-century atmosphere remains vivid for viewers, as they are swept away to an imaginative reinterpretation of old Japan.

Mushi-Shi can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

3) Mononoke

A enigmatic figure called The Medicine Man journeys through medieval Japan, aiming to eliminate malevolent entities referred to as mononoke. However, his mission isn’t merely about chanting exorcisms or fighting these spirits in traditional combat. Rather, he must delve deep into their nature, their essence, and their rationale by conducting thorough psychological probes and meticulous investigations. Only then can he draw the powerful Exorcism Sword and execute the elimination of these malicious specters. Engaging in an initial encounter with a mononoke for additional knowledge often proves to be equally, if not more, perilous than the ensuing battle.

Instead of rushing into action like many might do when facing problems, similar to how an apothecary often thinks deeply before acting, the Medicine Seller’s proactive approach of careful contemplation when dealing with the mononoke provides a unique, mysterious viewpoint on discovering unconventional solutions.

Mononoke can be streamed on Netflix and Crunchyroll.

4) Black Butler

Ciel Phantomhive, often referred to as the Queen’s watchdog, is tasked with solving a series of strange, unsettling events happening in Victorian England. As the young head of the Phantomhive household, Ciel doesn’t tackle these perilous missions on his own but benefits from the assistance of his faithful butler, Sebastian Michaelis. However, Sebastian’s extraordinary skills suggest that he is not merely an exceptional butler; there may be more to him than meets the eye. Ciel, with a hidden, sorrowful past and yearning for rescue from a terrible destiny, struck a deal with the demon Sebastian, offering his soul in exchange for Sebastian’s eternal loyalty to serve and seek vengeance. This master-servant pairing uncovers the mysteries surrounding both supernatural happenings for the Queen and Ciel’s own hardships.

If you’re captivated by the intricate puzzles found in “The Apothecary Diaries”, you might discover another series that resonates with you – “Black Butler”. While Maomao unravels mysteries within a Chinese-inspired empire, Ciel and Sebastian find themselves battling supernatural foes as they solve various enigmas under the rule of England’s Victorian royalty.

Black Butler can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

5) Undead Murder Farce

When the local authorities express unease about involving themselves in the murder case of Jean Duchet Godard’s wife, a vampire noble, Godard chooses to engage instead two private investigators with expertise in supernatural crimes. However, Tsugaru Shinuchi and Aya Rindou didn’t arrive from Japan solely to tackle this particular mystery. Accompanied by an enigmatic birdcage, this peculiar detective duo handles a variety of cases during the 19th century in France while pursuing the wrongdoer who snatched Aya’s corpse and Tsugaru’s humanity.

In my fervor for captivating stories, I find myself drawn to characters like Aya, who might not possess a physical form but certainly knows how to engage her mind thoroughly when pondering challenges, much like Maomao. Despite being set in 19th-century France rather than an oriental setting reminiscent of ancient China, the enigmas in “Undead Murder Farce” promise to keep you equally enthralled on the edge of your seat as in “The Apothecary Diaries.

Undead Murder Farce can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

6) Orb: On the Movements of the Earth

In 15th-century Poland, known as P Kingdom in this tale, the Church adheres to geocentrism – the idea that the Earth is at the center of the universe, and those who question this belief are harshly persecuted. A young, intelligent man named Rafal seeks knowledge beyond the ordinary. While he publicly studies theology, his true passion lies in rational thinking. He secretly aims to prove the theory of heliocentrism – the idea that the Sun is at the center and the Earth revolves around it. However, to do so, Rafal must carefully gather evidence through research, calculations, and theoretical models, all while evading the watchful eyes of the Church to avoid being labeled a heretic, a fate that could be fatal.

The thirst for knowledge and education throughout history is similar to how Maomao eagerly seeks to understand various medicines, poisons, and their effects. Similarly, Rafal in “Orb: On the Movements of the Earth” yearns to learn about the world, but his quest may lead to potentially dangerous outcomes.

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth can be streamed on Netflix.

7) Thermae Romae

Feeling stuck in coming up with fresh, groundbreaking concepts, ancient Roman architect Lucius Modestus finds himself disheartened during his job search. To lift his spirits, friends take him to a busy bathhouse. However, overwhelmed by the noise, he seeks tranquility underwater and stumbles upon a hidden tunnel that transports him to a contemporary Japanese bathhouse. Equipped with forward-thinking ideas before his time, Lucius is inspired by the advanced technology of this foreign bathhouse and endeavors to replicate what he’s seen in an attempt to rekindle interest in his work and restore his reputation.

If you find amusing the parts in “The Apothecary Diaries” when Maomao gets excited about gathering poisons and ingredients, you’ll likely appreciate Lucius’s insights into his own line of work. Although pharmaceuticals and bathhouses might seem quite different, the enthusiasm for their professions that both Maomao and Lucius display is evident.

Thermae Romae is available for streaming on Prime Video and Crunchyroll.

8) The Heike Story

In feudal Japan, during the power struggle of the Taira or Heike clan, they were known for harshly punishing any perceived disrespect towards them. One such instance occurred when a girl with an unusual eye made a disrespectful gesture. Her father paid the price for her actions. The girl, now called Biwa, is left alone after this incident.

Later, Taira no Shigemori, the eldest son of the clan leader, encounters Biwa. She warns him about the impending fall of the Heike. Biwa has the ability to foresee the future, while Shigemori possesses an eye that allows him to see the spirits of the deceased.

Impressed by her prophecy and his own unusual eye, Shigemori decides to take Biwa under his protection in an attempt to save his clan from ruin. Biwa must now learn to navigate her new life within the Heike clan.

Just as Maomao adapts to her existence within the imperial palace, Biwa adjusts to life in the Taira clan’s household. Similarly, both characters possess unique personalities and behaviors that might make it challenging for them to fit seamlessly into their new environments.

The Heike Story can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

9) The Mystic Archives of Dantalian

Following the demise of his grandfather, Sir Wesley Disward, a distinguished collector of rare books, young Lord Hugh Anthony Disward (also known as Huey) assumes ownership of his grand estate, which encompasses the Bibliotheca Mystica de Dantalian – an archive filled with forbidden wisdom. Additionally, he becomes responsible for a secretive girl named Dalian. As fate would have it, Huey and Dalian encounter one of Wesley’s old enemies, who is suspected to be the man behind his grandfather’s death. In this meeting, they also uncover that the assassin possesses a cursed tome known as the Phantom Book – a book Wesley had attempted to keep locked away. As their lives hang in the balance, Dalian confides in Huey and tasks him with deciphering the knowledge hidden within the Bibliotheca Mystica de Dantalian to subdue the Phantom Book. Together, they form an alliance to unravel the mysteries surrounding the other Phantom Books as well.

In a world steeped in Chinese tradition, Maomao unravels the mysteries surrounding her through her expertise in pharmaceuticals. Meanwhile, Huey and Dalian do the same using literature set in post-World War I England. Regardless of the method you prefer your detective to employ, if you appreciate Maomao’s medical deductions, you’ll undoubtedly find the intellectual adventures of Huey and Dalian captivating too.

The Mystic Archives of Dantalian can be streamed on Crunchyroll.

10) Young Black Jack

Medical student Kurō Hazama, though a surgical prodigy, encounters personal struggles amidst the tumultuous backdrop of 1960s Japan – a period marred by student uprisings, war, and corruption. Sporting a striking black-and-white mane and a body bearing the scars of his past, Hazama’s life story mirrors the darkness etched upon him. Following the execution of an operation deemed impossible, Hazama finds himself in the limelight for his exceptional skills, only to be ensnared in a web of shady situations jeopardizing his reputation as a surgeon. Alongside his spirited intern Maiko Okamoto and trusted friend Yabu, Hazama must navigate through numerous hardships on his path to becoming the esteemed, legendary surgeon, Black Jack, as portrayed in the prequel of Osamu Tezuka’s acclaimed series.

If you’re drawn to the historical medical aspects of “The Apothecary Diaries”, then “Young Black Jack” might be a good fit for you. Similar to Maomao who excels in her pharmacy career, Hazama demonstrates exceptional skills in surgery.

Young Black Jack can be streamed on HiDive where available.

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2025-07-15 04:11