Anime fans often search for a Naruto filler list when starting one of the most iconic series in anime history. With hundreds of episodes spanning multiple arcs, movies, and spin-offs, knowing which episodes follow the original manga storyline and which are filler can dramatically improve the viewing experience.
The Naruto franchise is legendary. Created by Masashi Kishimoto, the story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja striving to earn recognition and become Hokage—the strongest leader in his village. The anime adaptations, Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden, expanded the manga into hundreds of televised episodes.
However, like many long-running anime series, Naruto includes a significant amount of filler content—episodes that were not adapted from the original manga. This comprehensive Naruto filler list guide will explain what filler is, why it exists, which arcs you can skip, and which filler episodes might actually be worth watching.
What Is a Naruto Filler List?
A Naruto filler list is a categorized breakdown of episodes that were created exclusively for the anime and do not directly adapt the manga storyline.
Filler episodes are typically produced when the anime catches up to the manga source material. Rather than pausing production, studios create original content to allow the manga time to advance.
In the case of Naruto, the animation was handled by Studio Pierrot, a studio known for long-running adaptations. Because Naruto aired weekly for years, filler arcs became unavoidable.
For viewers who want to focus purely on canon material (episodes that follow the manga), a Naruto filler list becomes an essential tool.
Why Does Naruto Have So Much Filler?
To understand the Naruto filler list, we must consider how weekly anime production works.
Unlike seasonal anime that runs for 12–24 episodes per year, Naruto aired continuously for long stretches. The manga publication schedule could not always stay ahead of the anime.
Instead of stopping the show, producers created original arcs to maintain broadcast consistency.
This approach:
- Maintained TV scheduling contracts
- Preserved audience engagement
- Allowed time for manga story development
- Generated additional merchandise opportunities
While this strategy kept Naruto on air, it also led to long filler stretches—particularly in the original Naruto series.
Naruto Filler List for the Original Naruto Series (2002–2007)
The original Naruto anime contains 220 episodes. Surprisingly, a large portion of the latter episodes are filler.
Canon Episodes
Episodes 1–135 follow the manga storyline, covering:
- Land of Waves Arc
- Chunin Exams
- Konoha Crush
- Sasuke Retrieval Arc
These arcs introduce major characters like:
- Naruto Uzumaki
- Sasuke Uchiha
- Sakura Haruno
- Kakashi Hatake
Major Filler Stretch
Episodes 136–220 are almost entirely filler.
This extended filler run lasted nearly 85 episodes and included:
- Random side missions
- Comedic village adventures
- Standalone character stories
For viewers following a Naruto filler list strictly for canon viewing, episodes 136–219 can largely be skipped without missing critical plot points.
However, some fans enjoy these episodes for added character moments and lighthearted humor.
Naruto Filler List for Naruto: Shippuden
The sequel series, Naruto: Shippuden, contains 500 episodes. Compared to the original series, Shippuden balances canon and filler more evenly—but still includes substantial filler arcs.
Total Filler Percentage
Naruto: Shippuden has roughly 40% filler content.
Notable Canon Arcs
Major canon storylines include:
- Kazekage Rescue Arc
- Pain’s Assault Arc
- Five Kage Summit
- Fourth Great Ninja War
These arcs deepen the Akatsuki storyline and develop villains such as:
- Pain
- Madara Uchiha
- Itachi Uchiha
Major Filler Arcs in Shippuden
Some significant filler arcs include:
- Twelve Guardian Ninja Arc
- Three-Tails Appearance Arc
- Power Arc
- Various flashback expansions
Using a Naruto filler list allows viewers to skip dozens of episodes without disrupting the main narrative.
Mixed Canon and Filler Episodes
Not every episode fits neatly into “canon” or “filler.” Some are mixed episodes, containing:
- Manga-based story segments
- Anime-original flashbacks
- Extended fight scenes
A well-structured Naruto filler list typically identifies these mixed episodes so viewers can decide whether to watch them.
In some cases, mixed episodes expand on emotional moments and provide deeper character exploration.
Is All Filler Bad? A Balanced Perspective on the Naruto Filler List
While many viewers skip filler, not all filler episodes are poorly received.
Some filler arcs:
- Develop minor characters
- Provide comedic relief
- Explore world-building
- Offer unique animation styles
For example, certain Shippuden filler arcs expand on backstories that are only briefly mentioned in the manga.
Although filler does not advance the main plot, it can enhance emotional attachment to characters.
How the Naruto Filler List Impacts New Viewers
Naruto’s total episode count (720 combined between both series) can feel intimidating.
Without a Naruto filler list, newcomers may feel overwhelmed.
By skipping filler:
- Viewing time reduces dramatically
- Story pacing improves
- Emotional impact strengthens
- Binge-watching becomes more manageable
Many streaming platforms do not label filler clearly, which is why fans rely on curated lists online.
Why Long-Running Anime Often Require a Filler List
Naruto is not alone in having filler content. Other long-running anime such as Bleach and One Piece also contain filler arcs.
Weekly anime formats make filler almost inevitable.
Modern anime tends to adopt seasonal formats to avoid this issue. This shift reduces the need for filler arcs in newer series.
The Role of Filler in Character Development
Interestingly, some characters receive more development in filler than in canon.
For example:
- Side ninja teams gain spotlight missions
- Minor villains receive standalone arcs
- Relationships are explored in comedic scenarios
While these stories may not impact the overarching plot, they enrich the world of Naruto.
Naruto Filler List and the Fourth Great Ninja War
One of the most controversial filler periods occurs during the Fourth Great Ninja War arc in Shippuden.
Instead of maintaining momentum, the anime frequently inserted flashback filler arcs between major battles.
This disrupted pacing for weekly viewers.
However, modern binge-watchers using a Naruto filler list can avoid these interruptions entirely.
Movies vs. Filler Episodes
Naruto also has multiple movies, including:
- Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow
- The Last: Naruto the Movie
Most early Naruto films are considered non-canon. However, The Last is canon and bridges Naruto and Shippuden’s conclusion.
A Naruto filler list typically separates movie canon status as well.
Emotional Arcs Worth Watching (Even If Filler)
Even strict canon viewers sometimes make exceptions.
Some filler arcs are praised for:
- Emotional storytelling
- Unique fight choreography
- Alternative perspectives
Fans often recommend selecting specific filler arcs rather than skipping everything automatically.
How to Watch Naruto Using a Naruto Filler List
If you want a streamlined experience:
Step 1: Watch Canon Only
Follow a reliable Naruto filler list to skip non-essential episodes.
Step 2: Return to Select Filler
After finishing the main story, revisit highly rated filler arcs.
Step 3: Watch Canon Movies
Ensure you include The Last before transitioning to the sequel series Boruto: Naruto Next Generations.
Does Skipping Filler Affect Emotional Impact?
For some viewers, skipping filler improves pacing. For others, it reduces attachment to side characters.
The ideal viewing experience depends on:
- Personal patience
- Interest in side stories
- Viewing speed
- Completionist tendencies
A Naruto filler list provides flexibility rather than a strict rulebook.
Modern Streaming and the Importance of a Naruto Filler List
With streaming platforms making Naruto widely accessible, many new fans are discovering the series for the first time.
Because modern audiences are accustomed to tightly written seasonal anime, filler-heavy pacing can feel outdated.
A Naruto filler list ensures a smoother, more contemporary viewing experience.
Final Thoughts on the Naruto Filler List
Naruto remains one of the most influential anime franchises of all time. Its emotional storytelling, dynamic battles, and memorable characters continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
However, its long-running weekly format resulted in a significant amount of filler content.
A well-organized Naruto filler list empowers viewers to:
- Save time
- Maintain narrative momentum
- Focus on canon arcs
- Customize their experience
While filler episodes can offer humor and side character exploration, they are not essential to understanding Naruto’s journey to becoming Hokage.
Whether you choose to watch every episode or follow a streamlined canon path, Naruto’s legacy remains powerful. From intense ninja battles to emotional friendships and sacrifices, the heart of the story shines through—filler or not.
