The Apothecary Diaries’ New Maomao Licca-chan Doll Is Officially Getting a US Release
Image by James RichardsonTakara Tomy has revealed its first Licca-chan doll collaboration with The Apothecary Diaries, recreating protagonist Maomao through one of Japan’s most recognizable fashion doll brands.
The Apothecary Diaries has become a major international anime hit, with the wider series now surpassing 57 million copies worldwide and both a third television season and its first theatrical movie on the way.
The story follows Maomao, a sharp-minded young apothecary whose knowledge of medicine, poison and human behavior repeatedly draws her into mysteries within the imperial palace.
Her unique personality and unconventional approach to palace life have helped make her one of the most recognizable anime heroines of recent years.
The series’ popularity is currently at an all time high, with Season 3 of the anime beginning on October 2 before “The Apothecary Diaries: The Deceased Empress’ Treasure” arrives in Japanese theaters on December 11.
The “The Apothecary Diaries Maomao Licca-chan” recreates Maomao’s freckles, hairstyle and clothing while adapting them to the familiar proportions and appearance of Licca-chan.
Takara Tomy has developed a new hair color specifically for the collaboration, marking the first time that particular shade has been used for a Licca-chan doll.
Her hair is styled to resemble Maomao’s appearance in the anime, while the eyes use a subdued blue created to reflect the character’s own coloring.
The outfit follows the colors and silhouette of Maomao’s clothing, with a separate jacket and skirt included alongside her hair ornament, shoes and undergarments.
One of the smaller character-specific touches appears on her left arm, where a bandage-style piece recreates another familiar detail from Maomao’s design.
That level of attention makes the collaboration feel aimed as much at existing Apothecary Diaries fans as traditional Licca-chan collectors, rather than treating the anime connection as a simple costume swap.
Takara Tomy has also confirmed that the new doll will be released in North America, including the US and Canada, alongside releases in several Asian markets.
Licca-chan began expanding into North America in March 2026, making the Maomao collaboration one of the latest Japanese pop culture-inspired releases to form part of the doll line’s growing international presence.
The “The Apothecary Diaries Maomao Licca-chan” is priced at ¥5,500 (approx. $35 USD / £25 GBP), with pre-orders opening on August 27 through hobby retailers such as HobbyLink Japan.
The Japanese release is scheduled for October 24, 2026, with the North American release yet to receive a confirmed date.
If you enjoyed this article, you can see more from us directly in your Google feed by adding us as a preferred source.
This post may contain affiliate links, and Essential Japan may earn a commission if you purchase through them.
