If fans were captivated by The Apothecary Diaries and 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 Diaries is 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 with The 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 after The Apothecary Diaries.

10 Vinland Saga

Anime Series by Wit Studio and MAPPA; Based on the Manga by Makoto Yukimura

While Vinland Saga might 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 in The 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. In Vinland Saga, this is represented through philosophical dialogues and strategic thinking, while The Apothecary Diaries does 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 Saga will leave a lasting impression.

9 Sugar Apple Fairy Tale

Anime Series by J.C. Staff; Based on the Light Novel by Miri Mikawa

This fantasy romance is a delightful complement to The 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 Tale follows 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 comion rather than brute force. Anne's evolving dynamic with Challe has a similar slow-burn appeal to Maomao and Jinshi's relationship. Add in a visually stunning world rich with historical and fantasy flourishes, and Sugar Apple Fairy Tale offers a heartwarming yet complex narrative full of courage, perseverance, and emotional growth.

8 The Saint's Magic Power is Omnipotent

Anime Series by Diomedéa; Based on the Light Novel by Yuka Tachibana

For fans of The Apothecary Diaries who enjoy court intrigue and competent heroines quietly rising in rank, The Saint's Magic Power is Omnipotent is 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 to The Apothecary Diaries, especially for those who enjoy watching smart women quietly change the world around them.

7 Nina the Starry Bride

Anime Series by Project No.9; Based on the Manga by Rikachi

Nina the Starry Bride is a stunning josei anime that 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 of The 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 in Nina the Starry Bride.

Much like Maomao, Nina's strength lies in her keen observation and emotional resilience in Nina 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.

6 YATAGARASU: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master

Anime Series by Pierrot; Based on the Novel Series by Chisato Abe

This lesser-known gem shares many of the same DNA strands as The Apothecary Diaries, particularly its elaborate world-building and deep court intrigue. Set in a society of shape-shifting raven people, YATAGARASU explores 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, YATAGARASU has a richly textured narrative that makes it impossible to stop watching.

5 Snow 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 Hair is 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. Like The 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, comion, 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.

4 Frieren: Beyond Journey's End

Anime Series by Madhouse; Based on the Manga by Kanehito Yamada and Tsukasa Abe

If the introspective tone and emotional moments of The Apothecary Diaries were part of its appeal to fans, then Frieren: Beyond Journey's End should 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 make Frieren: Beyond Journey's End a poignant, introspective companion piece to The Apothecary Diaries.

3 Yona of the Dawn

Anime Series by Pierrot; Based on the Manga by Mizuho Kusanagi

This epic fantasy combines the political drama of The Apothecary Diaries with sweeping action and adventure. Yona of the Dawn follows 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.

While Yona of the Dawn has a lot more action and combat, its heart lies in the same place as The 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. While Yona of the Dawn has a lot more action and combat, its heart lies in the same place as The Apothecary Diaries, with the journey of a young woman navigating the dangerous currents of power.

2 Ascendance of a Bookworm

Anime Series by Ajia-do Animation Works; Based on the Light Novel by Miya Kazuki

One of the most spiritually similar series to The Apothecary Diaries, Ascendance of a Bookworm is 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, and Ascendance of a Bookworm delivers the same satisfying mix of intellect, heart, and determination.

1 Raven of the Inner Palace

Anime Series by Bandai Namco Pictures; Based on the Novel by Kōko Shirakawa

This mystical historical drama closely mirrors the atmosphere and court politics of The 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 like The Apothecary Diaries, Raven of the Inner Palace is a perfect follow-up.