If fans fell in love withThe Apothecary Diaries, its sharp protagonist, imperial court intrigue, and undercurrent of romance, then they are probably hunting for their next anime obsession. Luckily, there are plenty of series that offer equally layered storytelling, brilliant female leads, and captivating world-building that will satisfy the same craving.
Whether fans are drawn to slow-burn character arcs, deep political maneuvering, or richly textured fantasy settings,these series all echo what madeThe Apothecary Diariesspecial. Some are hidden gems, others are modern classics, but each one offers its own version of clever women navigating complex worlds with grace, intellect, and emotional depth.
10The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent
Anime Series by Diomedéa; Based on the Light Novel by Yuka Tachibana
This gentle isekai series follows a 20-something office worker, Sei, who is accidentally summoned to another world, only to discover she is not the “chosen” one. But rather than wallow, she finds her place in the magical kingdom, learning alchemy and botanical healing while quietly becoming a national asset.
What makes this series shine is Sei’s quiet strength.Like Maomao, she uses intellect over bravado, slowly earning respect in a patriarchal system.The show’s restrained romantic subplot adds a cozy emotional layer, while the emphasis on research, herbalism, and subtle political drama makes it an ideal follow-up for fans ofThe Apothecary Diaries’quieter, more mysterious and thoughtful moments.
Set in an alternate Edo Japan where a disease has drastically reduced the male population,Ōokuflips gender roles on their head. Women run the shogunate, and men are cloistered in the inner chambers. Political marriages, power struggles, and emotional betrayals abound in this uniquely feminist reimagining of Japanese history.
Much likeThe Apothecary Diaries, this series peels back layers of court life to reveal how power operates in private spaces. It tackles gender, status, and survival in a world where appearances are everything. Expect slower pacing, poetic visuals, and characters who fight battles with strategy rather than swords.
Shuurei, the daughter of a noble family fallen on hard times, accepts a position as the emperor’s consort, not for romance, but to pursue her dream of becoming a civil servant.What follows is a sweeping historical drama filled with bureaucratic politics, personal growth, and unexpected twists of fate.
The slow-burn relationships, moral dilemmas, and lush visuals makeThe Story of Saiunkokufeel like a spiritual sibling toThe Apothecary Diariesin both tone and texture.
Saiunkokublends historical richness with feminist storytelling. Shuurei’s dedication to public service mirrors Maomao’s devotion to her craft, and the court setting allows for layered social commentary. The slow-burn relationships, moral dilemmas, and lush visuals makeThe Story of Saiunkokufeel like a spiritual sibling toThe Apothecary Diariesin both tone and texture.
Set in a fantasy version of ancient Japan where humans with avian bloodlines govern society,YATAGARASUis a hidden gem that explores power, tradition, and identity. It centers on a young noble, Yukiya, thrust into the imperial court after living as a commoner. His unfamiliarity with politics quickly makes him a target.
This series sharesThe Apothecary Diaries’fascination with the complexities of palace life. The imperial world ofYATAGARASUis full of coded etiquette, invisible hierarchies, and subtle mind games. It also plays with themes of found identity and internal rebellion, which is something Maomao fans will recognize and appreciate in Yukiya’s development.
Myne, a modern book-lover reincarnated in a medieval world where books are scarce, is determined to bring literature to the masses. Despite fragile health and countless obstacles, she uses ingenuity and passion to build her way into the aristocratic world, one invention at a time.
Fans of Maomao will immediately love Myne’s pragmatic approach to a worldthat underestimates her. Both characters wield knowledge like a weapon, and both resist the systems that try to limit their ambitions. The show’s slow world-building and focus on mundane tasks lie paper-making, printing, and herbal remedies make it a satisfyingly educational and thoughtful watch.
5Snow White with the Red Hair
Anime Series by Bones; Based on the Manga by Sorata Akizuki
Shirayuki is an herbalist whose rare red hair draws unwanted attention from a prince, but instead of submitting to fate, she escapes and chooses her own path. What follows is a gentle but compelling story of court life, romance, and personal agency.
This anime has the same appeal asThe Apothecary Diaries,because it has an intelligent, grounded heroine who uses her skills to gain independence. Shirayuki’s journey from outsider to respected palace worker mirrors Maomao’s arc, and the thoughtful romance with Zen is built on mutual respect, not manipulation. The show’s soft elegance is emotionally satisfying.
Though it is heavier on action thanThe Apothecary Diaries, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhoodshares a deep interest in corruption, class struggles, and the abuse of institutional power. As brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric navigate the world of alchemy and politics, they uncover vast conspiracies embedded in the state.
If fans enjoyed Maomao’s detective-style unraveling of secrets, theywill find similar satisfaction inFullmetal Alchemist:Brotherhood’sintricately woven plot. The show juggles ethical dilemmas, scientific curiosity, and deeply personal stakes. And while it is more battle-heavy, its exploration of power and knowledge puts it in the same intellectual league asThe Apothecary Diaries.
Frieren, an elven mage who outlives her human companions, journeys through a quiet post-heroic world reflecting on life, death, and legacy.Frieren: Beyond Journey’s Endis an introspective fantasyfocuses less on action and more on emotional resonance and the slow formation of new bonds.
While the setting differs, Frieren’s introspection and episodic mystery-solving mirror Maomao’s analytical lens.
While the setting differs, Frieren’s introspection and episodic mystery-solving mirror Maomao’s analytical lens. Both shows ask what it means to live meaningfully in worlds shaped by impermanence. There is a tranquil pacing, an emphasis on memory and healing, and the kind of lingering, thoughtful storytelling that stays with viewers long after it ends.
When Princess Yona’s father is murdered and her kingdom usurped, she flees and begins a journey to reclaim her destiny. Along the way, she gathers a band of loyal protectors and transforms from a naive girl into a shrewd leader with emotional resilience and political vision.
Yona’s evolution is reminiscent of Maomao’s growth from apothecary to royal investigator. Both are strong female protagonists who do not start out powerful but earn their strength through hardship and insight. The series also blends romance, mythology, and political drama into an addictive narrative that rewards patient viewers.
Set in a Chinese-inspired imperial palace, this series follows the mysterious Raven Consort, a woman with spiritual powers who solves supernatural mysteries. She lives in seclusion from the rest of the court, but her role grows more dangerous as hidden truths and political conspiracies rise to the surface.
This anime offers a darker, more mystical take on imperial life, but fans of Maomao will feel right at home. LikeThe Apothecary Diaries, it features court secrets, female autonomy, and slow-burn relationships wrapped in rich cultural detail. Its haunting mood and elegant animation make it a standout recommendation.
