Which Apothecary Diaries manga came first?

Which Apothecary Diaries manga came first? The original manga adaptation by Nekokurage began serialization in May 2017, making it the first manga version of Natsu Hyuuga's popular light novel series.

The Original Manga Timeline

The Apothecary Diaries manga journey started when Nekokurage's adaptation launched in Monthly Big Gangan magazine in May 2017. This version closely follows the light novel source material, which began publication in August 2011 under the Hero Bunko imprint.

Multiple Manga Adaptations

What makes The Apothecary Diaries unique is that it has two simultaneous manga adaptations:

Nekokurage's Version (2017)

- Published in Monthly Big Gangan

- More faithful to the light novel's tone and pacing

- Features detailed artwork that emphasizes the series' mystery elements

- Currently ongoing with multiple volumes available

Minoji Kurata's Version (2019)

- Launched in Monthly Sunday Gene-X

- Started two years after Nekokurage's adaptation

- Offers a different artistic interpretation of the same story

- Also ongoing alongside the original manga

Why Two Manga Versions Exist

Having dual manga adaptations isn't uncommon for popular light novel series in Japan. Publishers often commission different artists to create unique interpretations, allowing fans to experience the story through varied artistic lenses while potentially reaching different demographic audiences.

Publication Success

Both manga versions have achieved significant commercial success, with combined sales exceeding millions of copies. The series' popularity led to an anime adaptation that premiered in October 2023, further boosting manga sales globally.

The Apothecary Diaries' dual manga approach demonstrates how successful source material can support multiple creative interpretations. If you're interested in exploring this fascinating series, both manga versions offer distinct artistic experiences worth discovering.