Fans of The Apothecary Diaries finally have a release date for the franchise’s first theatrical film. TOHO Animation has confirmed that The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure will open in Japanese theaters on December 11, 2026.
Along with the announcement, the studio unveiled the film’s first trailer, a new key visual, and character designs, giving fans their first official look at the upcoming movie.
A Major Milestone for The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries heads into its first theatrical film after becoming one of the most successful anime franchises in recent years. Across its anime, manga, and light novel series, the franchise has surpassed 45 million copies in circulation, reflecting its growing popularity worldwide.
The movie arrives shortly after the end of Season 2, while Season 3 has already been confirmed to air in two split courses. Unlike the TV series, the upcoming film tells a brand-new original story instead of adapting material directly from the light novels.
TOHO Animation Studio is returning to produce the film, continuing its work on the franchise since the anime premiered in 2023.
What Is the Movie About?
The film follows Maomao and Jinshi as they travel to the homeland of a former imperial consort who died five years earlier. Their mission is to return her remains, but what begins as a simple journey soon turns into a new mystery.
As they investigate, the pair become caught up in a case involving pirates, hidden treasure, and a mysterious boy named Mu Qing, who has ties to a powerful local family.
The new character Mu Qing will be voiced by Mariya Ise, joining returning cast members Aoi Yūki as Maomao and Takeo Ōtsuka as Jinshi.
Original Story by Series Creator Hyūganatsu
The film features an original story written by Hyūganatsu, the creator of The Apothecary Diaries. According to the author, the movie focuses on the story of a former imperial consort who has not appeared in the main series before.
Maomao returns to investigate another dangerous mystery in the first trailer for The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure movie.
Hyūganatsu also confirmed that the events of the film take place between Seasons 2 and 3, fitting into the timeline of the original novels rather than replacing any existing story.
By creating a completely new mystery, the film offers both longtime readers and anime-only fans a chance to experience a fresh chapter in Maomao and Jinshi’s journey.
What Comes Next?
The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress Treasure is scheduled to open in Japanese theaters on December 11, 2026.
An international release date and streaming plans have not yet been announced. More information is expected closer to the film’s release.
For now, fans can watch the newly released trailer, explore the latest key visual and character designs, and look forward to more updates as the movie’s premiere approaches.
