The Apothecary Diaries: The Late Lady’s Treasure has finalized its rollout of character promotional videos, introducing the influential Bi clan, the Kajadan pirates, and original characters Ruòqíng and Yinshan. Produced by TOHO Animation STUDIO with direction from Norihiro Naganuma, this theatrical feature marks the franchise's cinematic debut, bringing an original narrative penned by series creator Natsu Hyuga.
The character showcases highlight the expanded scope of the upcoming film. The second promotional video spotlighted the Bi clan, governors of the southern Binan-shu province, featuring new cast additions including Mariya Ise as Mu Qing, Nobuo Tobita as Birou, Kumiko Watanabe as Qiuyu, and Hirofumi Nojima as Bisen. Subsequent trailers introduced the Kajadan pirate faction—led by Suija, voiced by Kensho Ono—and revealed the tragic backstories of mid-ranking consort Ruòqíng (Miyuki Sawashiro) and her head maid Yinshan (Ai Mikami), both crafted specifically for the silver screen.
The Mystery of Binan-shu
Set against the backdrop of a bustling city on the water, the plot follows Jinshi and Maomao as they investigate the immaculate remains of a concubine who passed away five years prior. Tasked with returning her to her southern homeland, the duo encounters high geopolitical tensions and pirate factions vying for hidden treasures.
The curtains rise on a new mystery surrounding a secret treasure hidden in a city on the water. The emperor gives Jinshi an order. He must grant the final wish of a concubine who passed away five years ago by returning her to her homeland.
Natsu Hyuga, Story Synopsis
Crunchyroll has secured global theatrical distribution rights outside of Asia, ensuring international audiences can experience Maomao's latest investigative endeavor on the big screen following the Japanese premiere on December 11, 2026.
Franchise Expansion
Originally serialized as light novels written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Toko Shino, The Apothecary Diaries continues its rapid multi-media expansion. Alongside the upcoming feature film, the property has greenlit a live-action series adaptation, a console game, and an adaptation of Hyuga's companion work, The Failure at God School.
