by The hit TV anime The Apothecary Diaries has unveiled its latest monthly seasonal illustration as part of the ongoing “Traveling Through the Four Seasons with Maomao and Jinshi” project. Released on February 22 celebrated by fans as “Maomao Day” the new visual captures a tender moment between Maomao and her adoptive father, Luomen, set against the early signs of spring.
Centered on budding butterbur sprouts (fuki no tō), a plant traditionally associated with the arrival of spring in Japan, the illustration highlights a softer, more innocent side of the usually sharp-witted heroine
February Visual: Spring Begins with Butterbur
In the February artwork, Maomao reaches curiously toward a freshly sprouting butterbur while Luomen watches her with quiet affection. The scene stands out because Maomao often portrayed as composed, analytical, and emotionally guarde appears noticeably more childlike and relaxed in her father’s presence.
This warm depiction reflects the series’ recurring theme: behind Maomao’s intelligence and independence lies a girl shaped by a complicated past but still capable of tenderness.
Butterbur sprouts symbolize renewal and the end of winter, making them an ideal motif for a visual that suggests emotional warmth and new beginnings.
About the “Four Seasons” Visual Project
The “Maomao & Jinshi Through the Four Seasons” project began in July 2024 and releases a new illustration on the 22nd of each month, themed around seasonal plants and natural motifs.
Although the initial run concluded after one year in June 2025, overwhelming fan demand led to the launch of a second chapter, continuing the tradition of monthly visuals.
Key features of the project:
- Focus on seasonal flora and Japanese cultural symbolism
- Intimate character moments outside the main storyline
- High-quality artwork suitable for wallpapers and merchandise
- Expanded world-building through everyday scenes
Free Wallpapers and Social Media Campaign
To celebrate the February release, official wallpapers using the new illustration are available for download on the anime’s website for both PCs and smartphones.
Additionally, the official X (formerly Twitter) account is hosting a follow-and-repost giveaway campaign:
- Follow the official account
- Repost the designated campaign post
- Five winners will receive a printed card featuring the February visual
This interactive promotion helps maintain fan engagement between episodes and major announcements.
Why The Apothecary Diaries Remains a Global Hit
Based on the light novel series by Natsu Hyuga with illustrations by Touko Shino, The Apothecary Diaries has become one of the most successful historical mystery anime of recent years.
The story follows Maomao, a knowledgeable young apothecary forced to work in the imperial palace, where she uses her expertise in medicine and poisons to solve complex incidents.
The franchise has achieved remarkable milestones:
- Over 45 million copies sold worldwide
- Consistently high streaming rankings
- Broad appeal across age groups and genders
- Strong international fanbase
In ABEMA’s 2025 rankings, the series placed first in multiple categories, including overall anime viewership and demographic-specific rankings.
On global platforms such as Crunchyroll, it also topped charts in several regions, outperforming many action-heavy titles.
Upcoming Anime Plans: Season 3 and Movie
Excitement continues to build for the franchise’s future, with major projects already scheduled.
Season 3 (Split-Cour Format)
- Part 1: October 2026
- Part 2: April 2027
- Broadcast on Nippon TV and affiliated networks
Theatrical Film
- Scheduled for release in December 2026
- Expected to feature an original or expanded storyline
- Produced by TOHO animation STUDIO
- Distributed by Toho
These announcements confirm that the series remains a flagship title in the anime industry.
Creative Team Behind the February Visual
The illustration was produced by key staff members from the anime production:
- Original Art: Atsuko Takahashi
- Animation Supervision: Yukiko Nakatani
- Color & Finishing: Nanako Okazaki
- Background Art: Kenji Tamaki
- Photography: Atsushi Takeyama
Their work preserves the anime’s delicate visual style while emphasizing seasonal atmosphere.
Beginner-Friendly Appeal
Even viewers unfamiliar with the main story can appreciate these visuals. They showcase character relationships and moods without requiring knowledge of plot details, making them accessible entry points into the series’ world.
Final Thoughts
The February seasonal visual for The Apothecary Diaries beautifully captures a rare, gentle side of Maomao, reminding fans that beneath her sharp intellect lies a vulnerable young woman shaped by love and family.
By combining symbolic seasonal imagery with intimate character moments, the “Four Seasons” project continues to deepen the emotional connection between the series and its audience.
With Season 3 and a theatrical film on the horizon, the franchise shows no signs of slowing down and these monthly visuals provide a charming bridge until the next major release arrives.
