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The Ultimate Naruto Watch Order: Skip Filler Like a Pro

Kenji Sato

April 15, 2026 • 10 min read

The Ultimate Naruto Watch Order: Skip Filler Like a Pro

So you want to become the Hokage? *Naruto* and *Naruto Shippuden* combine to create one of the most legendary, emotionally resonant Shonen stories of all time. However, it is also notoriously cursed with nearly 300 episodes of filler non-canon material created originally to let the manga catch up. If you want to experience the absolute peak pacing of Naruto without the drag, you need to navigate strategically. Here is the ultimate, streamlined watch order to experience the genuine canon journey.

Original Naruto (Part 1) Watch Order

The original *Naruto* series establishes the incredible world-building, the intense Chunin exams, and the heartbreak of Sasuke's departure. However, after the monumental climax, the series stalls.

Episodes 1-135: Watch entirely. This includes the Zabuza Arc, Chunin Exams, and the Sasuke Retrieval Arc. This is peak early Shonen.

Episodes 136-220: SKIP. These are entirely filler. Only watch the final half of episode 220 to see Naruto depart for his training with Jiraiya.

Naruto Shippuden (Part 2) Watch Order

Shippuden scales up the threats, the emotional stakes, and the animation quality as the Akatsuki moves in. But the filler placements here are extremely disruptive (sometimes placed directly in the middle of major war arcs!).

Skip these major filler blocks: 57-71, 90-112, 144-151, 170-171, 176-196, 223-242, 257-260, 271, 279-281.

During the War Arc, skip: 284-295, 303-320, 347-361, 376-377, 388-390, 394-413, 416-417, 422-423, 427-450, 464-469.

Essential Naruto Movies

A Personal Opinion on Filler

Do I think all filler is garbage? Not at all! The Kakashi ANBU Black Ops arc (Shippuden 349-361) is technically filler but is widely considered some of the best storytelling in the franchise.

However, for a first-time viewer, pacing is everything. Stick to the manga-canon first, and return to the quality filler when you are hungry for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to watch Boruto after Naruto Shippuden?

No. Naruto Shippuden offers a fully satisfying conclusion to Naruto's story. Boruto is an optional sequel focusing on the next generation.

What is the best Naruto fight?

Kakashi vs. Obito is universally praised for its raw hand-to-hand animation, lack of background music, and emotional weight.