Naruto Watch Order (2025 Guide): Canon, Filler & Movie Recommendations
If you ask ten anime fans where someone should start with Naruto, you’ll get ten different answers — and at least three arguments. That’s not because Naruto is confusing as a story. It’s confusing because the way it’s structured actively works against first-time viewers.
Hundreds of episodes. Two main series. A mountain of filler. Movies that may or may not matter. And then Boruto lurking in the corner like a post-credits scene you’re not sure you asked for.
This guide exists so you don’t burn out, quit early, or watch 40 episodes that add nothing to the story.
This is the proper Naruto watch order, written by someone who’s actually lived through the highs, lows, and filler-induced fatigue — not a checklist copied from Wikipedia.
Why Naruto’s Watch Order Matters More Than Most Anime
Naruto isn’t just long. It’s unevenly long.
There are stretches of pure brilliance — arcs that define shonen anime — followed by long filler runs that can kill momentum if you don’t know what’s coming.
Watch it wrong, and Naruto feels bloated. Watch it right, and it’s one of the most emotionally rewarding anime journeys ever.
That’s why a proper watch order isn’t optional. It’s essential.
The Naruto Series Breakdown (Know This Before You Start)
Naruto is split into two main series, and this is non-negotiable:
- Naruto (Original series – childhood era)
- Naruto Shippuden (Teen/young adult era)
They are not interchangeable. You cannot skip to Shippuden without context unless you enjoy confusion and emotional whiplash.
Naruto (Original Series) — What to Watch and What to Skip
The original Naruto series runs from Episode 1 to Episode 220.
Here’s the truth most guides bury in tables:
The Episodes You Should Watch
- Episodes 1–135
This is where:
- Naruto’s character is established
- Sasuke’s arc actually matters
- The emotional core of the series is built
Everything essential happens here.
The Episodes You Can Skip
- Episodes 136–220
These are almost entirely filler. Not “bad” filler — just unnecessary if you care about story momentum.
If you’re a completionist, revisit them later. If you’re a normal human, skip them without guilt.
Naruto Shippuden — Where the Story Gets Serious
Naruto Shippuden is where the anime grows up.
The tone darkens. Consequences start sticking. Characters stop being just archetypes and start feeling painfully human.
It also has… a lot of filler.
Shippuden runs from Episode 1 to Episode 500, but you do not need all of it.
Naruto Shippuden Watch Order (Canon-Only, Beginner Friendly)
Here’s the cleanest way to experience Shippuden without ruining pacing.
Essential Canon Episode Ranges
Watch these in order:
- 1–56
- 72–88
- 113–143
- 152–169
- 172–175
- 197–222
- 243–256
- 261–270
- 272–278
- 282–289
- 296–302
- 321–375
- 378–388
- 391–393
- 414–421
- 424–426
- 459–479
- 484–500
This covers:
- Akatsuki’s full impact
- Naruto’s growth as a ninja and a person
- The war arc (yes, even the controversial parts)
- A genuinely satisfying conclusion
The Filler Question: Should You Ever Watch Naruto Fillers?
Here’s my honest take:
Most Naruto fillers are not terrible — but they are badly placed.
They often interrupt:
- Major battles
- Emotional turning points
- High-stakes arcs
That’s unforgivable in long-form storytelling.
If you’re curious later:
- Watch filler arcs as side content
- Never mid-arc
- Never during emotional peaks
Naruto works best when momentum isn’t broken.
Naruto Movies: Which Ones Actually Matter?
Most Naruto movies are optional side stories.
Except one.
The One Movie You Should Watch
- Naruto: The Last
Watch it after Naruto Shippuden Episode 479.
This movie:
- Is canon
- Bridges key emotional gaps
- Actually matters to the ending
All other movies can be watched whenever — or skipped entirely.
Do You Need to Watch Boruto After Naruto?
Short answer: No.
Longer answer: Naruto Shippuden ends Naruto’s story properly. Boruto is a sequel that exists for fans who want more, not for closure.
If you’re satisfied with Naruto’s journey:
- Stop after Shippuden
- Watch The Last
- Walk away happy
Boruto is optional content, not a requirement.
Where to Watch Naruto Legally
Availability changes by region, but Naruto is commonly found on:
- Netflix
- Crunchyroll
- Amazon Prime Video
For a full breakdown, see our guide on legal platforms at /allaboutanime.in/anime-guides
Watching legally supports the industry — and usually means better quality.
How Naruto Fits Into Anime History
Naruto isn’t just popular. It’s influential.
It shaped:
- Rival dynamics in shonen
- Long-form character arcs
- The emotional stakes of action anime
Without Naruto, many modern anime wouldn’t exist in the same form.
If you’re exploring essential anime, it belongs alongside the titles in our /top-anime-to-watch guide.
FAQ: Naruto Watch Order Questions Everyone Asks
Is Naruto worth watching today?
Absolutely. It’s long, but its emotional payoff still holds up.
Can I skip Naruto and start with Shippuden?
Technically yes. Practically? You’ll miss everything that makes Shippuden hit.
How long does Naruto take if I skip filler?
Around 400–450 episodes total, depending on pacing.
Is Naruto beginner-friendly?
Yes — with a watch order guide. Without one, it’s overwhelming.
Are fillers ever important?
Not to the main story. They add flavor, not substance.
Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Experience Naruto
Naruto is a commitment — but not a punishment.
Watched properly, it’s:
- Emotional
- Earnest
- Occasionally messy
- Deeply human
It’s a story about failure, perseverance, and belonging disguised as a ninja anime.
Skip the filler. Follow the canon. Let the story breathe.
And when you’re done, you’ll understand why Naruto still sparks arguments, nostalgia, and loyalty decades later.
If you’ve already watched Naruto — or if you disagree with this order — I want to hear it. Drop your take, your favorite arc, or your hottest Naruto opinion.
👉 New to anime? Start with our How to Start Watching Anime – Beginner Guide
👉 Want easier picks? See Best Anime for Beginners