HIRAIDAI’s ‘Shiawase no Recipe’ debuts as ‘The Apothecary Diaries’ Season 2 ending theme
Japanese singer-songwriter HIRAIDAI unveiled his new song, Shiawase no Recipe, on January 10, coinciding with the premiere of The Apothecary Diaries Season 2. As the anime’s official ending theme, the song—translated as “Recipe for Happiness”—beautifully reflects the evolving bond between series protagonist Maomao and the enigmatic eunuch Jinshi.
Streaming platforms worldwide now offer the track, accompanied by an emotional fan reception praising its “perfect match” with the series. A creditless version of the ending theme, paired with stunning anime visuals, was released on YouTube on January 11, providing fans an immersive experience of both music and storytelling.
Stream Shiawase no Recipe here
Watch the final promotional video here
The Magic of ‘Shiawase no Recipe’
Set against the rich backdrop of The Apothecary Diaries—an anime adaptation of Hyuganatsu and Toko Shino’s bestselling novels and manga—HIRAIDAI’s song encapsulates the bittersweet, hesitant emotions shared by Maomao, a pharmacist’s daughter with a penchant for poisons, and Jinshi, her mysterious royal court employer.
HIRAIDAI shared his excitement about collaborating with the beloved series:
“I am thrilled and deeply grateful to be part of the wonderful world of Kusuriya no Hitorigoto. The song blends my personal emotions with the dynamic between Maomao and Jinshi. I hope it provides fans with moments of calm reflection amidst the twists of the plot.”
About The Apothecary Diaries
Based on a novel and manga series that has sold over 38 million copies, The Apothecary Diaries follows Maomao as she navigates life in a fictional royal court, solving mysteries through her knowledge of poisons and medicine. The first anime season debuted in October 2023 to critical acclaim, winning the Special Award at the TVer Awards 2023 and becoming a global streaming sensation.
Season 2 continues the saga with two consecutive half-seasons, beginning January 10, further delving into the intricate human drama that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Fans React to the Theme Song
The release of Shiawase no Recipe has garnered widespread praise from fans in Japan and overseas:
- “The lyrics and video are a perfect match—it’s the best, and I’ve been listening to it over and over again.”
- “HIRAIDAI’s singing voice is so sad it made me cry.”
As the second season unfolds, the song promises to serve as a fitting musical counterpart to the anime’s heartwarming yet complex narrative.
