Kusuriya no Hitorigoto [Season 1 Episode 35]

Episode 35 Review: “The Hunt” – A Turning Point for Maomao and Jinshi?

Kusuriya no Hitorigoto (or The Apothecary Diaries) has been a breath of fresh air in the anime scene, blending mystery, historical drama, and a dash of romance. Episode 35, titled “The Hunt,” is no exception—it’s a visually stunning and narratively intense installment that has fans buzzing. Directed by Norihiro Naganuma and produced by TOHO Animation and OLM, this episode marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between Maomao and Jinshi, while also teasing deeper mysteries lurking in the palace.

A Feast for the Eyes

One thing fans can’t stop raving about is the animation quality in this episode. The scenes at the waterfall and cave are breathtaking, with fluid movements and a dreamy atmosphere that almost feels like a painting. Some viewers even joked about the “fan-servicey” undertones—Jinshi and Maomao in their underclothes, bathed in moonlight, is a scene straight out of a romantic doujin. But beyond the aesthetics, these moments serve a purpose: they highlight the growing tension between the two characters, both emotionally and physically.

The Frog Mystery Unfolds

For those familiar with the light novel or manga, Episode 35 was highly anticipated—and it didn’t disappoint. The word “frog” kept popping up in discussions before the episode aired, and now we know why. Without spoiling too much, Maomao’s sharp mind and Jinshi’s cunning come into play as they unravel yet another palace intrigue. The way the mystery unfolds is classic Kusuriya no Hitorigoto: subtle, layered, and rewarding for attentive viewers.

Fans on MyAnimeList and Reddit have been dissecting every frame, theorizing about the implications of this episode for future arcs. Some speculate that this is the “point of no return” for Maomao and Jinshi’s dynamic, while others are more interested in the political machinations hinted at in the background.

Character Dynamics Steal the Show

What makes Kusuriya no Hitorigoto so compelling is its characters, and Episode 35 shines in this regard. Maomao’s intelligence and dry wit are on full display, but we also see a softer side of her—especially in her interactions with Jinshi. Their banter is as sharp as ever, but there’s an underlying vulnerability that’s hard to ignore. Jinshi, too, shows more layers than usual, balancing his usual playful demeanor with moments of genuine concern and strategy.

Fans have been divided on whether this episode pushes their relationship into romantic territory or keeps it in the realm of mutual respect and intrigue. Either way, the chemistry is undeniable, and it’s one of the biggest reasons people keep coming back to the series.

Final Thoughts

Episode 35 of Kusuriya no Hitorigoto is a masterclass in storytelling and animation. It delivers on mystery, character development, and visual splendor, leaving fans hungry for more. Whether you’re here for the palace intrigue, the slow-burn romance, or just Maomao being her brilliant self, this episode has something for everyone.

As one Reddit user put it: “This show keeps getting better with every episode. If you’re not watching it yet, what are you even doing with your life?” And honestly? They’re not wrong.

Where to Watch:
Catch The Apothecary Diaries on Crunchyroll, and join the discussions on MyAnimeList or Reddit to share your theories and reactions!

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 – A must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.)

What did you think of Episode 35? Let’s chat in the comments!