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The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure Sets December 11 Theatrical Release
The Apothecary Diaries film is heading to theaters for the first time. The Deceased Empress’ Treasure, an original anime film written by series creator Natsu Hyūga, opens in Japan on December 11, 2026, with returning leads Aoi Yūki and Takeo Ōtsuka reprising their roles as Maomao and Jinshi.
The film sits directly between the two cours of the ongoing Season 3, which premiered October 2 and pauses for the film before resuming with its second half in April 2027.
A New Story, Not an Adaptation
Unlike the TV series, which adapts Hyūga’s existing light novels, The Deceased Empress’ Treasure tells a brand-new story written specifically for the film. It follows Maomao and Jinshi as they travel to return the remains of a concubine who died five years earlier in the imperial harem to her hometown, a journey that pulls them into pirates, hidden treasure, and the secret behind the late Empress’ remains, alongside a mysterious boy who holds the key to the mystery.
Mariya Ise joins the cast as Mu Qing, an original character created specifically for the film, confirmed alongside the project’s trailer in July.
Staff and Merchandise Tied to the Release
The film retains the TV series’ production staff, keeping the same creative team responsible for Season 3 behind the movie’s new story. Tie-in merchandise is already rolling out ahead of the December premiere, including a Bandai Spirits Ichiban Kuji lottery line themed around the film, offering prize tiers built around Maomao and Jinshi figures, with its own release set for December 5, 2026, just days before the movie opens.
Where the Franchise Stands Overall
No international release plans have been announced for The Deceased Empress’ Treasure yet, so fans outside Japan currently have no confirmed date for when the film might reach other markets. Separately, a live-action adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries remains in development, though it still has no release date attached.
For everything confirmed about the TV side of the franchise, our Apothecary Diaries Season 3 premiere coverage breaks down the current cour’s story and schedule heading into the film’s December release.
FAQ
When does The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure release?
The film opens in Japanese theaters on December 11, 2026.
Is The Deceased Empress’ Treasure based on the existing light novels?
No. It’s an original story written specifically for the film by series creator Natsu Hyūga, separate from the published light novels, manga, and TV anime.
Who stars in The Apothecary Diaries film?
Aoi Yūki returns as Maomao and Takeo Ōtsuka as Jinshi, with Mariya Ise joining the cast as Mu Qing, a new character created for the film.
Is The Apothecary Diaries film getting an international release?
Not yet confirmed. As of now, no release plans outside Japan have been announced for The Deceased Empress’ Treasure.
How does the film fit with Season 3’s schedule?
The film releases between Season 3’s two cours, with Cour 1 airing now and Cour 2 resuming in April 2027 after the film’s December theatrical run.
