Like many Japanese creators, she prefers to keep her personal life private.
She began publishingThe Apothecary Diariesonline in 2011, where it quickly attracted a devoted following.
These adaptations ultimately paved the way for the anime, which began airing in October 2023.
As Maomao uncovers more secrets, she finds herself drawn deeper into a web of palace politics and intrigue.
That could have been one way to close it.
However, Hyuga’sgrowing attachment to the characters led her to continue.
As I kept writing, I found myself wanting to write a little more about her.
In the same interview, Hyuga also spoke about her long-term hopes for the series' conclusion.
Rather than a neatly wrapped-up finale, she wants the ending to feel emotionally resonant and open-ended.
The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao, sold from her peaceful life to serve in the emperor’s palace. Her unique talents emerge when she solves a medical crisis involving the imperial heirs, attracting the attention of Jinshi, a palace official, and launching her into the complex world of palace intrigue and mysteries.
However, it remains to be seen whether that will hurt or helpThe Apothecary Diariesand its overall story.
As the anime progresses, concerns have emerged aboutthe availability ofThe Apothecary Diaries’source materialfor future seasons.
For now, the production team must balance ambition with patience, ensuring the series retains its distinctive charm.
Despite its rising success, Hyuga has openly admitted she still doesnt know exactly how the story will end.
That creative openness brings a sense of unpredictability that mirrors Maomaos journey itself.
