With hundreds of episodes and multiple story arcs, Naruto can feel confusing at first glance. Knowing which episodes truly matter is what separates an enjoyable experience from a frustrating one. This Naruto filler list was created to help you follow the main storyline, skip unnecessary detours, and stay focused on what actually moves the plot forward. After revisiting the series several times over the years, it’s clear how much a proper filler guide enhances Naruto’s character development, emotional moments, and iconic battles.
That’s why I put together this Naruto filler list, designed to help you decide what to watch, what to skip, and what’s optional. Whether you’re watching Naruto for the first time or revisiting the classic era, this guide saves time and keeps the pacing tight.
Let’s get straight to the most important part.
Naruto Filler List Quick Guide: Canon, Mixed, and Filler Episodes
Below is a quick-reference list so you don’t have to scroll endlessly before starting the anime. I personally use this structure whenever I rewatch Naruto, and it’s the fastest way to follow the core story while avoiding burnout.
Naruto Filler List
| Manga Canon Episodes: |
| 1–6, 8, 10–13, 17, 22, 25, 31–36, 42, 48, 50–51, 61–62, 64–65, 67–68, 73, 75–82, 84–96, 107–111, 115–125, 128–129, 132–135 |
| Mixed Canon/Filler Episodes: |
| 7, 9, 14–16, 18–21, 23–24, 27–30, 37–41, 43–47, 49, 52–60, 63, 66, 69–72, 74, 83, 98–100, 112–114, 126–127, 130–131, 141–142, 220 |
| Filler Episodes: |
| 26, 97, 101–106, 136–140, 143–219 |
This structure lets you follow Naruto’s journey from an outcast ninja to a true shinobi without losing narrative momentum. In the next sections, I’ll break down each major arc, explain what happens in those episodes, and tell you honestly which filler arcs are worth watching — and which ones you can safely skip.
Naruto Filler List Explained: Land of Waves Arc (Episodes 1–19)
This is where Naruto truly begins to show what kind of story it wants to tell. The Land of Waves arc introduces Team 7, Kakashi as a mentor, and the first real sense of danger in the series. Naruto Uzumaki is still loud, reckless, and underestimated, but these early episodes plant the seeds of his growth. The story revolves around protecting Tazuna while facing Zabuza and Haku, two of the most memorable antagonists in the franchise.
From a Naruto filler list perspective, most episodes here are canon or mixed, meaning they are essential to understanding Naruto’s world, chakra mechanics, and emotional themes. This arc is fully based on the manga and establishes the darker tone that separates Naruto from lighter shonen at the time. Skipping anything here would weaken the entire experience, especially Naruto’s evolving bond with Sasuke and Kakashi.
Naruto Filler List Breakdown: Chūnin Exams Arc (Episodes 20–67)
The Chūnin Exams arc is often where new viewers realize why Naruto became a global phenomenon. This storyline expands the ninja world dramatically, introducing characters like Gaara, Rock Lee, and Orochimaru. Naruto’s determination is tested not just through battles, but through psychological pressure, rivalry, and failure. Sasuke’s internal conflict also begins to surface here, setting up future arcs.
When following a Naruto filler viewing structure, this arc is mostly manga canon with some mixed episodes that add context without derailing the story. The written exam, the Forest of Death, and the tournament fights all serve a clear narrative purpose. Rock Lee vs Gaara alone justifies watching every canon episode. Any filler within this stretch is minimal and usually short, making this one of the most consistently strong sections of the original series.
Naruto Filler List Guide: Search for Tsunade Arc (Episodes 68–100)
This arc shifts focus from exams to legacy and leadership. Naruto begins training seriously under Jiraiya, while the story introduces Tsunade, one of the Legendary Sannin. Her reluctance to become Hokage adds emotional depth and explores themes of loss and responsibility. At the same time, Orochimaru’s pursuit of power escalates, raising the stakes for everyone involved.
From a Naruto filler list standpoint, this arc blends canon and mixed episodes, but the core narrative remains strong and focused. Naruto’s development feels more intentional here, especially as he starts understanding the cost of being a ninja. While a few episodes slow the pacing slightly, most contribute to world-building or character growth. This arc also prepares viewers for the heavy filler stretch that comes later, making it an important narrative bridge.
Where to Watch Naruto?
Following a well-structured Naruto filler list makes the original series far more enjoyable, especially if you’re watching it today for the first time or revisiting it after years. Instead of losing momentum with long anime-original arcs, you can stay focused on Naruto’s growth, his rivalry with Sasuke, and the emotional foundation that defines the entire franchise. I always recommend starting with the canon-heavy path and returning to fillers later only if you want extra world-building.
Right now, Naruto is available to stream on Netflix and Crunchyroll, making it easy to choose the platform that fits your routine best. And once you finish the classic series, you can continue your journey with my Naruto Shippuden filler list and later move on to the Boruto filler list, both designed to help you watch every era of the ninja world without confusion.
