Kusuriya no Hitorigoto

Both takes place in ancient China. Both main characters solve mysteries at the emperor's palace. 

The female leads are both intelligent and funny characters. The vibe is similar and there are engaging mysteries in both of the shows! 

Both are set in Ancient China and revolves around mysteries being solved inside the palace.  

Raven of the Inner Palace is also set in China, involves solving mysteries (though in Raven's case, they are more spiritual/ghost related mysteries, while Kusuriya no Hitorigoto focuses on actual crime mysteries), both of the female protagonists have similar personalities and a sprinkle of romance in both of the animes Raven of the Inner Palace may feel a bit weird in the beginning but after a couple of episodes it will become very interesting highly recommend it if you like Kusuriya no Hitorigoto (and the other way around too). 

Both are place in ancient China. And both of the female characters reveals the mysteries inside the palace. 

Kusuriya no Hitorigoto and Kokyuu no Karasu are two anime that share several similarities in terms of themes, characters, and storylines: 1. Setting and Theme Both Kusuriya no Hitorigoto and Kokyuu no Karasu are set in an East Asian-inspired historical context, featuring rich cultural atmospheres within royal palaces. They both showcase beautiful and authentic visual details, such as depictions of palaces, traditional clothing, and other cultural elements, creating a deep and immersive ambiance. 2. Strong and Intelligent Main Characters The protagonists, Maomao and Jusetsu, both possess sharp analytical abilities and play crucial roles in uncovering various secrets and conflicts. Maomao, as a pharmacist, solves problems based on her knowledge of poisons and medicines. Meanwhile, Jusetsu solves problems using her mystical powers. 3. Intrigue and Mystery Both anime emphasize strong elements of mystery, with storylines often involving investigations of various incidents within the inner palace. Investigation and problem-solving are key elements in both series, where the main characters frequently find clues and solve puzzles to reveal the truth behind various events. The difference lies in how the mysteries are resolved in each story. In Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, the mysteries often involve poisons or medicinal concoctions, and their resolutions take a more scientific and logical approach. Maomao, the main character, often conducts experiments and direct observations to uncover the truth. Meanwhile in Kokyuu no Karasu, the mysteries involve supernatural elements and uses mystical & spiritual approaches. Jusetsu, the main character, relies on her supernatural powers to overcome issues and solve mysteries of a ghostly nature. 4. Interesting Character Interactions Both anime feature intriguing interactions between the main characters and other supporting characters within the palace. The complex dynamics of relationships between these characters are a major attraction of the story, with various conflicts and collaborations occurring throughout the plot. read more 

- Both works are set in a very similar period, located in an emperor's palace. The two protagonists are introverted, empathetic, discreet, intelligent, enigmatic, and reclusive. They are always called upon for missions that people cannot solve alone, leaving the task of solving them in their hands. - A nobleman falls madly in love with the female protagonist, but she doesn't care at all, because she is very dense and is concerned with intellectual things. - Both animes are beautiful and convey sensuality and knowledge. - Both have a tragic and mysterious past - Both have unusual personalities in the world of anime, especially for protagonists. 

1. Both series set in a Chinese themed fantasy world, where even the character names are in Mandarin, such as- Maomao (Female Lead of Kusuriya no Hitorigoto), Liu Shouxue (Female Lead of Koukyuu no Karasu) etc. 2. The female leads of these two series have keen expertise to their line of work, as Maomao in Apothecary and Ryuu Jusetsu in Mystical Arts. 3. Both of these have a mystery theme into their storyline. 4. Both of these emphasize on depicting the aspects of Chinese Imperial culture. 

Both protagonists serve in the inner palace and solve mysteries. Raven of the inner palace is more about supernatural entities, while in Apothecary diaries the solutions are based on logic and Maomao's medical knowledge. The animation is great at both animes. Apothecary diaries is more light-hearted in comparison to Raven of the inner palace, which is a little bit darker, but both are entertaining.  

Both taking place within a palace, with a mystery theme around it. It's fitting that one came out in the Fall of 2022 and one comes out in the Fall of 2023 

1. Strong, independent, and intelligent FMC 2. Intriguing Mysteries 3. Ancient China setting Each female character features a strong, wise, and independent woman. Not easily wavered by a challenge. Instead, uses their own wits and skills: mystical power and/or apothecary skills, to solve the mysteries that were assigned to by their bosses. Additionally, both shows are set inside the Emperor's Palace in Ancient China. 

In both anime we have an alternative history taking place in quasi-feudal China, in at the emperor's court in the imperial harem. In both, the action focuses on palace conspiracies, monarchy, and dynasty issues. In both, the characters solve criminal investigations mainly related to assassinations and intrigues inside the palace. 

If you like strong female protagonists with a strong character development, Kusuriya no Hitorigoto and Akatsuki no Yona are a must-watch! Both series feature resourceful young women who are forced to grow too fast in their richly developed historical setting. While Kusuriya no Hitorigoto follow’s Maomao, a young apothecary raised in the red light district, journey as a servant in royalty, Akatsuki no Yona revolves around a sheltered princess that is suddenly stripped of her title and has to find her path to survival and justice as a renegade. Although, at a superficial level, their stories appear to be opposite to each other, both women have to grow through hardship, loss and discover their inner strength while learning how to navigate the challenges around them. While both offer a good blend of political intrigue and mystery, Mamao’s story offers a more investigative and intelectual narrative, whereas Yona’s focus more on action setting and the character’s emotional growth. Besides, the two provide amazing, complex and not that obvious male characters and love interests (besides the occasional kabedon). Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a warm cup of female rage, would you?  read more 

If you enjoyed Apothecary Diaries, then I'd highly recommend Yona of the Dawn. Both the female leads from each respective anime share similar traits, such as both being quite stubborn and strong-willed, as well as smart and independent, but they are also unique in their own ways, both have individualized strengths and attributes that set them apart from one another. Both worlds are set in an older fantasy setting involving kingdom's and royalty, and they both have a historical feel to them (though, I can't explicitly say Yona of the Dawn is a historical anime as it is set it's own unique world, but it has the feeling of being historical due to the time period it is set in.) And of course, Yona of the Dawn has not only one attractive male lead (whos honestly a little similar to Jinshi,) but multiple other attractive male characters in the main cast! all with their own unique personalities that honestly blend in very well with each other, a classic reverse harem, but it is honestly very well done and doesn't feel cliche (most of the time.) Also, the animation and character design in both series are absolutely stunning! Your eyes won't get bored watching Yona of the Dawn, I can promise that.  read more 

If you like: animes with strong protagonists medieval anime set in ancient Asia tense, dramatic, conflicts, Mystery, funny moments beautiful character designs good storyline You should watch this, both have a very very similar vibe and are very well made. 

Like Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, Akatsuki no Yona is set in an ancient kingdom. Both shows have romance tropes between the two main characters, however the social status of the characters are flipped seeing that Yona is a princess while Maomao is a lady in waiting and Hak is a soldier and Jinshi is a eunuch. If you enjoy subtle romance in historical anime with a strong female lead, these two shows go hand in hand.  

They share similar aesthetics, with richly detailed, historical-inspired settings that draw readers into their worlds. Both series feature strong, independent heroines who use their unique skills to navigate complex challenges. The palace intrigue and political drama in both stories are complemented by their lush visuals, though The Apothecary Diaries animation has a more polished look. Despite their different focuses, Maomao solving palace mysteries and Yona reclaiming her kingdom, the visual appeal and depth of the characters create a captivating experience in both series. 

Like the above ones mentioned they're both shoujos set in an ancient kingdom more specifically Akatsuki no Yona is set in Ancient Korea during it's Three Kingdoms Period (it is not set in Ancient China like one recommendation mentions wanted to clear that up) while Kusuriya no Hitorigoto doesn't seem to be set in one specific time period. Maomao for example is wearing attire straight from the Ming Dynasty whereas someone like Lishu is wearing Tang Dynasty attire. Both often related to politics and both share similar themes although the protaganists are quite different. If you want a similar vibe and an anime set in an historical asian kingdom you should watch Akastuki no Yona read more 

I love the historical animes, and I wanted an anime that it have the same vibes with Yona of the dawn, And finally, here we are. 

Of all the anime I've watched over the years, I had never encountered any anime that gave me the same feel as Akatsuki no Yona since it ended, and yet here we are! Akatsuki no Yona is also set in ancient China and it really has the same setting/atmosphere and visuals. While Akatsuki no Yona has a plot revolving around treason, it's actually more based on adventure and magical powers. It's a really powerful story with great characters, so if you like Kusuriya no Hitorigoto but haven't seen Akatsuki no Yona yet, I highly recommend you watch this classic right now! 

both stories are set in ancient China, both female protagonists are similar in their diligence in their line of work, both are about solving mysteries in an emperor's palace 

Both of these feature female leads which dabble in medicinal fields, and are set in historically inspired settings. While one is more European and the other is more Oriental, I think both have much to offer, and someone who likes one might enjoy the other too. Granted, they have distinct personalities, looks and the relations are somewhat different, but both protagonists are likeable, and both anime offer a decent cast of characters and are both seasonal. 

Both "The Apothecary Diaries" and "Snow White with the Red Hair" are slice-of-life anime that focus on young women who find themselves in new and unfamiliar environments. They both have a gentle and heartwarming tone, and they explore themes of friendship, self-discovery, and acceptance. Similarities: -Both anime focus on young women who are outsiders. Mao Mao is an outsider in the palace due to her low social status, and Shirayuki is an outsider in her new kingdom due to her red hair. =Both anime explores themes of friendship and self-discovery. Mao Mao and Shirayuki both make new friends and learn more about themselves as they navigate their new lives. -Both anime have a gentle and heartwarming tone. Both anime are lighthearted and uplifting, and they will leave you feeling good after watching them. read more 

The Apothecary Diaries and Snow White with the Red Hair share a lot in common. Both stories follow very similar heroines: Maomao, an apothecary, and Shirayuki, a herbalist, who use their skills to navigate palace intrigues and solve problems. Set in historical-inspired worlds, they both feature court politics and personal growth, with the protagonists carving out their own paths despite the challenges they face. Romance also plays a key role, with Maomao’s subtle bond with Jinshi and Shirayuki’s deepening relationship with Prince Zen adding depth to their journeys. 

Both MCs are really sweet girls who are interested in medicine. Both animes also take place in a royal setting, with Maomao in the forbidden city and Shirayuki in the palace. Snow white with red hair is a bit more focused on romance though. Very lighthearted, cute stories. 

-both feature female protagonists -both the protagonists are herbalists -both feature to be concubines (with Shirayuki being forced to become one and ends up escaping, and MaoMao becooming a lady in waiting to one. 

Both animes are about female characters who are both interested in medicine and herbs and the anime is set in a different time.  

Historical East Asia, royalty, political tension, conspiracy, mystery and murder in the palace, all of this and more found in Yatagarasu and The Apothecary Diaries 

These series both take place in a palace setting and have a similar vibe. Mystery and secrets are important to the plots of both stories, and the protagonists of both series are somewhat forced into their roles initially.  

Both anime have historical settings with main characters getting roped into events by powerful people in their country. While Apothecary Diaries focuses more on it's medical, mystery, and comedy aspects. The Raven Does Not Choose It's Master focuses more on it's political events, story, plot and world building. Both have some similarities in their qualities and are very good in their own right and whichever one you'll prefer depends on which of it's main aspects suit your tastes better. Overall you're likely to enjoy both of them if you liked one. 

Setting of ancient feudal china with royalty or royal family as one of the main focus. Also the servent lord relationship is similar. Both have a mysterious vibe. 

both heroines are hired to court in ancient china (saiunkoku resembles china at least) and have close relations to someone of noble origin hiding their identity. they both come from wealthy families but live in modest circumstances. they are incredibly talented and knowledgable, insastiably curious and borderline obsessive. they tackle and resolve matters of national importance and find themselves in the center of all kinds of palace intrigues, power struggles etc. all subplots are important for the main plot. 

Wanted to know what a grounded Chinese court drama would look like in anime format? Well, here you go.... In a fictional kingdom clearly inspired by Imperial China, a young, unassuming girl gets to work at the Imperial Palace. However, our heroine is soon implicated into a world of conspiracy and intrigue. She has to rely on her wits and skills to navigate the treacherous waters of the Imperial court. Despite their seemingly serious setup, both Saiunkoku Monogatari and The Apothecary Diaries also feature lighthearted storybeats and moments of levity that help prevent the experience from becoming a dour bore. 

both has same settings. MC is from a poor family but with respectable background and for difference reason have to work at the palace. then SC which is higher up, interested in her because of her capability. both MC also has to solve problem altough with different bacground. kusuriya using medicine while sainkoku using common knowledge. when watching the first episode of kusuriya, i was striked by the same settings. this makes me want to watch saiunkoku again. 

For those interested in a historical-themed story with a girl boss MC. 

Switch the place of an Apothecary and an wannabe Librarian and you get Honzuki as kusuriya equivalent. Honzuki has Isekai elements, magic powers and Western scenario but both of them have brilliant protagonist that literally change the world around them, conducting innovations even when their resources are limited, that being related to the current technology or hierarchy/social barriers. All of those themes are common in one and another. The protagonist are really passionate about their on areas of expertise and that make them really intriguing. Also, curiously, both of them have similar casts roles in the side characters roaster which made me baffled... I literally could see characters correspondences between the series (not point out that they are copycats, after all, their conjectures are different... differently context and locals - Kusuriya being apparently in Ancient China). If you like curious protagonists that seem to have every answer to their own respective fields of knowledge and, along the way, debating social roles and Information as power (most of time, presenting those topics implicitly), both anime are absolutely bangers. read more 

Both stories present strong, intelligent, curious female protagonists with a collection of very specific knowledge in their areas of work. At the same time, they develop as people in socially complex and ancient environments while developing interpersonal relationships and growing as individuals when facing various situations that challenge them. 

In Ascendance of a Bookworm, the female protagonist loves books so much that it can change her behavior in the same way that rare ingredients and poisons affect Maomao's behavior. This special detail works throughout the series. In both, there is an aristocracy and its interaction with each other and with commoners. The beginning of the story of the Ascendance of a Bookworm is not so similar to the The Apothecary Diaries, but then the similarity increases greatly (I read the ranobe of the Ascendance of a Bookworm after season 3). If you are ready to read the sequel later (and if you are not from the future, when the 4+ seasons came out), then I advise you to try the Ascendance of a Bookworm. read more 

Similar vibe and story. The MC is a girl in a historical setting born into a lower caste in a very socially stratified society. But she uses her intelligence and knowledge to advance herself, catching the eye of higher ups. She has to tread carefully as as a low class girl her life is cheap and could be taken for any mishap or perceived mishap. The MCs are similar in that they aren't really interested in power but they are obsessed with one thing (books for Myne and drugs/herbs for MaoMao). Oh, and both shows are very, very good. 

If you liked the inner court dynamics then this will be right up your ally with the social drama and politics. 

Both shows involve the MC being taken to a palace to work where the Emperor lives. Both take place in a Historical setting except Ooku is set in Japan and Kusuriya no Hitorigoto in a China-inspired.  

Stories are very different, but both series are about alternative history (one takes place in Japan, second in China) with a heavy focus on palace conspiracy and royalty.  

in both shows the main character solves mysteries both main character shows less emotion and keeps a poker face  

Similar process of solving mysteries. Both MCs don't want to do detective work (for different reasons) and are annoyed when asked to do so, but actually become curious. Great attention to detail in animation and beautiful backgrounds 

If you love the royal palace in ancient China setting, this is another great one! It follows a strong female lead with handsome love interest. I was really surprised no one had recommended this one yet! I love both of these so much! 

These anime pay close attention to the world of medicine and pharmacy, where the main characters are experts in pharmaceuticals. In Isekai Yakkyoku, the protagonist is a modern-day pharmacist reincarnated in a fantasy world, using modern medical knowledge to cure illnesses. Meanwhile, in Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, Maomao, the main character, is a talented pharmacist within a royal setting who uses her medical expertise to solve mysteries and care for the health of nobility. 

Both series (Frieren and Apothecary) have a female main character that is well written and developed. Both series focus more on the setting and world building rather than on action or romance, but both series also does contain elements of each. 

This will be helpful as I don't really leave recommendations as I am just a casual anime fan. But both anime is striking with similar vibes but different settings. I was really curious as both protagonist displays same behaviour. Please check on pointers below. -Both Female protagonist has the same seiyuu hence the reason it has the same vibe when watching. -Both has historical setting; only difference is—Gosick is Western/European and Kusuriya is Eastern/Oriental setting. -Both Female MC loves mystery and indeed smart; their difference is—Victorique loves mystery that much and would love to solve any case/mystery there is as she is too bored. Whilst, Maomao loves being an apothecary and solving cases and she is stuck with a lot of physical work and used to do manual labor. I can provide a lot of list just to enumerate and highlight the similarity but there are spoilers. I guess it's best to watch it instead if you're into tsundere-pettanko-smart MC. You'll love how both MC resolve every case and is adamant when they have all the pieces together to get it solved. read more 

Both have an Ancient Chinese setting and the MC is a strong female character involved with a handsome male. They have the same vibe I guess and I was surprised to see no one had recommended it yet. Really worth the watch.  

Both include strong female leads with an individualistic (and oblivious) mindset who have goals they want to achieve, followed by a handsome male lead with childish (in a lovable way) tendencies. Similar dynamics between the characters, with great supporting characters.