The Apothecary Diaries the Movie: The Late Lady’s Treasure has unveiled a new trailer and key visual ahead of its Japanese theatrical premiere on December 11, 2026. The latest preview also confirms that Japanese singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu will perform the film’s theme song, titled “Haru ga Tomori” (“Spring Lights”).
The upcoming feature marks the first theatrical movie in The Apothecary Diaries franchise. It introduces an original mystery written by Natsu Hyuga, the creator of the original light novel series, bringing Maomao and the palace’s intrigue to the big screen.
Norihiro Naganuma is directing the film, with TOHO Animation STUDIO handling animation production. Crunchyroll has also acquired the movie’s North American and worldwide distribution rights.
Movie Novelization Announced
Alongside the latest promotional materials, Natsu Hyuga is set to publish a novel adaptation of the film’s story under the title The Apothecary Diaries: The Late Lady’s Treasure.
The book will adapt Hyuga’s original story for the movie and include additional elements that could not be incorporated into the theatrical version. The first edition will feature a wide obi bearing the film’s first key visual.
The novelization offers fans another way to experience the new mystery while providing additional material beyond what appears on screen.
What Is The Apothecary Diaries About?
Written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Toko Shino, The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, a young apothecary who is sold to the imperial palace and forced to work as a low-ranking servant.
Despite her position, Maomao’s extensive knowledge of medicine, poisons, and pharmacology quickly draws attention. Her curiosity and sharp observational skills lead her to investigate unusual illnesses, suspicious incidents, and hidden secrets within the palace.
Her growing involvement brings her into contact with Jinshi, a handsome and influential palace official who frequently relies on her expertise to solve complicated mysteries.
The franchise has expanded beyond its original light novels into two manga adaptations: one written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage, and another written and illustrated by Minoji Kurata. J-Novel Club publishes the light novels in English, while Square Enix handles the manga’s English release.
The Franchise Continues to Expand
The upcoming movie arrives during a period of continued expansion for the franchise, which has also announced its first live-action series adaptation and its first console game.
Meanwhile, The Failure at God School, a manga with a story written by Hyuga, has also received an anime adaptation announcement.
With a new mystery, an original story from Hyuga, and a theme song by Kenshi Yonezu, The Apothecary Diaries the Movie: The Late Lady’s Treasure is scheduled to arrive in Japanese theaters on December 11, 2026.
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