‘The Apothecary Diaries’ exhibition in Malaysia
Step through recreated palace scenes and geek out over iconic Maomao moments when you visit The Apothecary Diaries’ official art exhibition, which is set to open in Kuala Lumpur soon.
In an official social media post on X, The Apothecary Diaries will embark on its first international exhibition tour across several Asian countries, taking place in Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taipei, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and more. Before the announcement, the exhibition was mainly held in cities limited to Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
What is ‘The Apothecary Diaries’?
Image credit: IMDb
Based on Natsu Hyuuga’s light novel of the same title, The Apothecary Diaries has received multiple adaptations, from manga to an anime series. A third season and a theatrical movie are also set to be released in 2026.
In a story heavily influenced by the Tang Dynasty in China, The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, a young girl with a peculiar affinity towards poison who is trained by her apothecary father.
While employed by the imperial palace, Maomao deduces mysteries and quells palace court rumours in the service of the Emperor, unearthing hidden truths of the imperial palace in the process.
Voice actors Aoi Yuki & Takeo Otsuka at the Apothecary Diaries exhibition in Tokyo.
Image credit: AnimeNewsNetwork
Since its anime debut in October 2023, the series has gained immense popularity internationally, selling over 40 million copies of its original novel and manga combined in 2024
What to expect at The Apothecary Diaries exhibition
The Apothecary Diaries exhibition in Osaka.
Image credit: Essential Japan
The first international exhibition for the anime series will take place at INCUBASE Arena in Hong Kong this year. It is safe to say that they might host it at INCUBASE Arena Malaysia in Fahrenheit88, located at Bukit Bintang.
Do note that the confirmed dates, venue, and fees for the exhibition are yet to be announced in KL, but it is expected to take place sometime in 2026.
The anime exhibition was held throughout Japan from March to September 2025. It included artwork, video presentations, original sketches, storyboards, and art settings, as well as 3D recreations of memorable scenes from the first anime season.
Character relationship tree at the Hong Kong exhibition.
Image credit: Incutix
Fans who attended the exhibition in Japan have praised the in-depth displays, such as replicas of notable character items like Maomao’s medicine cabinet and costumes, at the exhibition. Here’s hoping the exhibition in Malaysia can replicate similar experiences for fans here.
A dedicated area for Maomao at the exhibition in Osaka.
Image credit: Essential Japan
After finishing a tour of the exhibition, visitors in Japan were even treated to a designated merchandise space with exclusive The Apothecary Diaries items, including acrylic stands and posters.
Image credit: Twe Tar via Facebook
‘The Apothecary Diaries’ is set to come to Malaysia
While we patiently wait for the confirmed exhibition dates, venue, and fees to be announced, it’d be best to also fatten up our wallets in the meantime, so we can splurge on exclusive merchandise without having to bat an eye at the price.
Cover image adapted from: IMDb, AnimeNewsNetwork