The anime series Naruto is a global phenomenon, beloved for its rich storytelling, dynamic characters, and epic battles. However, like many long-running anime, Naruto contains a significant number of filler episodes. While some fans enjoy these extra stories, others prefer to focus solely on the main plot. If you’re diving into Naruto and want to know more about its filler episodes—what they are, how they fit in, and whether you should watch them—this blog post is for you.
What Are Filler Episodes?
Filler episodes are anime-exclusive content not based on the original manga. They are created to give the manga time to progress ahead of the anime or to extend the runtime of a series. While filler episodes don’t contribute to the main storyline, they often provide side adventures, character development, or comedic moments.
In Naruto, filler episodes are scattered throughout both the original series (Naruto) and its sequel (Naruto: Shippuden), making up a considerable portion of the total episode count.
Filler Episodes in Naruto
The original Naruto anime consists of 220 episodes, with approximately 91 episodes considered filler. These fillers are found mainly toward the end of the series, after the main story arcs have concluded.
Notable Filler Arcs in Naruto
- Land of Tea Escort Mission (Episodes 102–106)
- Naruto and Team 7 escort a runner to a race while facing challenges from rival teams.
- Why Watch?: Offers lighthearted moments and showcases teamwork, but isn’t essential to the main story.
- Bikochu Beetle Arc (Episodes 148–151)
- Naruto and his friends search for a rare beetle to help locate Sasuke.
- Why Watch?: Features unique teamwork among the Konoha 11, but doesn’t add to the overarching plot.
- Raiga Arc (Episodes 152–157)
- The team battles a rogue member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist.
- Why Watch?: A filler villain with ties to the broader world-building of the series.
- The Star Guard Mission (Episodes 178–183)
- A mission to protect a meteorite with mysterious powers.
- Why Watch?: Adds some intrigue but is largely skippable for plot-focused viewers.
Filler Episodes in Naruto: Shippuden
Naruto: Shippuden contains a whopping 500 episodes, of which roughly 204 are filler. These fillers are spread more evenly throughout the series, often inserted between major story arcs.
Notable Filler Arcs in Naruto: Shippuden
- Twelve Guardian Ninja Arc (Episodes 54–71)
- Naruto trains to master wind chakra while dealing with a rogue group targeting the Hidden Leaf.
- Why Watch?: Features great action and explores Naruto’s training, though it deviates from the main story.
- Power Arc (Episodes 290–295)
- A mysterious village is attacked by reanimated shinobi.
- Why Watch?: Stunning animation and action scenes make this filler arc feel like a mini-movie.
- Chikara Arc (Episodes 349–361)
- Flashbacks showing Kakashi’s time as a leader and the origins of Team 7.
- Why Watch?: Offers interesting backstory for longtime fans.
- Jiraiya’s Ninja Scrolls (Episodes 432–450)
- A fictional retelling of Naruto’s life, written by Jiraiya in an alternate reality.
- Why Watch?: A creative concept, though it doesn’t impact the main story.
Should You Watch the Fillers?
Whether or not you watch the filler episodes depends on your preferences:
- Skip Them: If you’re eager to stick to the main story and avoid deviations, you can safely skip the fillers. The core narrative focuses on Naruto’s journey, his bond with Sasuke, and the fight against Akatsuki, making the fillers optional.
- Watch Select Fillers: Some filler arcs offer entertaining or emotional moments, and watching a few can add depth to your viewing experience.
- Watch Everything: If you’re a completionist or enjoy spending more time with the characters, fillers can provide additional insights and fun side stories.
How to Identify Filler Episodes
The easiest way to identify filler episodes is by consulting online guides that categorize episodes as canon, mostly canon, or filler. Websites like Anime Filler List provide detailed breakdowns to help you decide what to watch.
While filler episodes may not advance the main plot, they’re an integral part of the Naruto anime experience. For some fans, these episodes offer a chance to see their favorite characters in new situations, while others prefer to focus solely on the manga-based story. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
Whether you skip them or enjoy them, one thing is certain: Naruto remains one of the most iconic anime series ever created. Happy watching!