Starting Point
The Naruto Shippuden filler list is something every new and returning viewer needs before starting this massive series. With 500 total episodes and nearly 200 of them being non-canon content, knowing what to skip can save you dozens of hours. Furthermore, watching filler at the wrong time can completely kill your excitement for the story.
In this complete guide, you will find every filler arc, every filler episode number, what you can safely skip, and which filler episodes are actually worth your time. Whether you are a first-time viewer or coming back after a long break, this is the only Naruto Shippuden filler list guide you will ever need.
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What Is Naruto Shippuden and Why Does It Have Filler?
Naruto Shippuden is the direct sequel to the original Naruto anime. It aired from February 2007 to March 2017, covering 500 episodes across a full decade. The story picks up two and a half years after Naruto Uzumaki left the Hidden Leaf Village to train with Jiraiya. On his return, he faces the growing threat of the Akatsuki — a criminal organization of powerful rogue ninja.
The series is based on the manga written by Masashi Kishimoto. However, when an anime catches up to its source manga too quickly, the studio has two choices. It can either pause the show or create original content to fill the time. Studio Pierrot chose to create original episodes, and they did so extensively throughout the run.
As a result, out of 500 total episodes, approximately 203 are classified as filler. That gives Naruto Shippuden a filler percentage of around 41 percent. In other words, nearly half of the entire show is content that was never part of Kishimoto’s original story.
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Naruto Shippuden — Series Overview Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Series Name | Naruto Shippuden |
| Manga Author | Masashi Kishimoto |
| Animation Studio | Studio Pierrot |
| Network | TV Tokyo |
| Air Dates | February 15, 2007 — March 23, 2017 |
| Total Episodes | 500 |
| Total Filler Episodes | Approximately 203 |
| Filler Percentage | Approximately 41% |
| Canon Episodes | Approximately 297 |
| Genre | Action, Adventure, Martial Arts, Fantasy |
Main Characters Table
| Character | Role | Appears in Filler |
|---|---|---|
| Naruto Uzumaki | Main Protagonist | Almost all filler arcs |
| Sasuke Uchiha | Rival and Rogue Ninja | Rarely in filler |
| Sakura Haruno | Medical Ninja, Team 7 | Some filler arcs |
| Kakashi Hatake | Team 7 Sensei | Heavily featured in ANBU arc |
| Hinata Hyuga | Kunoichi, Love Interest | Occasional filler |
| Shikamaru Nara | Strategist | Featured in Shikamaru Hiden |
| Itachi Uchiha | Akatsuki Member | Itachi Shinden filler arc |
| Rock Lee | Taijutsu Specialist | Occasional filler |
Filler Arc Quick Reference Table
| Filler Arc | Episodes | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Twelve Guardian Ninja Arc | 57–71 | Optional |
| Three-Tails Appearance Arc | 91–112 | Worth Watching |
| Six-Tails Unleashed Arc | 145–151 | Optional |
| Locus of Konoha Arc | 176–196 | Skip |
| Paradise Life on a Boat Arc | 223–242 | Skip Completely |
| Power Arc | 290–295 | Optional |
| Kakashi ANBU Black Ops Arc | 349–361 | Must Watch |
| In Naruto’s Footsteps Arc | 394–413 | Optional |
| Jiraiya Shinobi Handbook Arc | 432–450 | Worth Watching |
| Itachi Shinden Arc | 451–458 | Must Watch |
| Konoha Hiden Wedding Arc | 494–500 | Must Watch |
Canon vs Filler Episode Numbers Table
| Episode Type | Episode Numbers |
|---|---|
| Manga Canon | 20–23, 26–27, 29–44, 46–48, 51–53, 55, 72–88, 114, 116–126, 129–143, 152–169, 172–175, 197–212, 214–222, 243–253, 255–256, 261–270, 272–278, 282–283, 297–302, 321–326, 329, 332–345, 363–375, 378–384, 387, 391–393, 414, 418, 420–421, 424–425, 459, 463, 470, 473–477, 484–500 |
| Pure Filler | 57–71, 91–112, 144–151, 176–196, 223–242, 257–260, 271, 279–281, 284–289, 303–320, 327–328, 347–361, 376–377, 389–390, 394–413, 416–417, 422–423, 428–450, 464–469, 480–483 |
| Mixed Canon and Filler | 1–19, 24–25, 28, 45, 49–50, 54–56, 89–90, 113, 115, 127–128, 144, 170–171, 213, 254, 290–296, 330–331, 338–346, 362, 385–386, 388, 415, 419, 426–427, 451–458, 460–462, 471–472, 478–479 |
The Complete Naruto Shippuden Filler List by Arc
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Twelve Guardian Ninja Arc — Episodes 54 to 71
The Twelve Guardian Ninja arc is the first major filler arc in the Naruto Shippuden filler list, and it arrives quite early in the series. It introduces a group of elite shinobi who once served as personal bodyguards to the Land of Fire’s ruler. Moreover, the arc spends considerable time developing Asuma Sarutobi’s backstory and his connections to this legendary group.
Episodes 54 and 55 are partially canon because they deal with Naruto’s wind-nature chakra training — an important story beat tied directly to the manga. However, episodes 56 through 71 are full filler and can be skipped safely.
The arc also introduces a character named Sora who shares a connection to the Nine-Tails. In addition, watching it makes Asuma’s later death in the Hidan and Kakuzu arc feel more emotional and meaningful.
Verdict: Optional. Episodes 54 and 55 are worth watching for the chakra training content. The rest can be skipped if you are focused only on canon.
Three-Tails Appearance Arc — Episodes 89 to 112
This is one of the longer arcs on the Naruto Shippuden filler list, and it is also one of the most entertaining. The story centers on the Three-Tails, a tailed beast that has appeared in the wild without a jinchuriki host. Furthermore, it introduces Guren — a crystal-release user who is widely considered one of the best anime-original characters in the entire series.
Alongside Guren, a young boy named Yukimaru forms an emotional bond with the Three-Tails that mirrors Naruto’s own relationship with the Nine-Tails. As a result, the arc carries genuine thematic weight even though it is completely non-canon. Episodes 89 and 90 are mixed canon and filler, while episodes 91 through 112 are pure filler.
On the other hand, none of these events appear in Kishimoto’s original manga. Therefore, you can skip this arc cleanly without missing any plot.
Verdict: Worth watching for fans who enjoy world-building and strong side characters. However, it is fully skippable for canon-only viewers.
Six-Tails Unleashed Arc — Episodes 144 to 151
This short arc introduces Utakata, the jinchuriki of the Six-Tails. He is a bubble-blowing ninja being hunted by the Akatsuki, and his story draws clear parallels to Naruto’s own struggles as a tailed beast host. In addition, a young girl named Hotaru carries a dangerous technique that puts everyone around her at risk.
The arc is short — only eight episodes — so it does not overstay its welcome. Episode 144 is mixed canon and filler, while episodes 145 through 151 are pure filler. Moreover, the emotional themes of isolation and being feared for what you carry inside connect meaningfully to the larger story.
Verdict: Optional. It is short enough that watching it does not waste much time. However, skipping from episode 143 to episode 152 is perfectly fine.
Past: Locus of Konoha Arc — Episodes 176 to 196
This arc is one of the most frustrating entries on any Naruto Shippuden filler list, and for a very clear reason. It arrives immediately after the Pain invasion arc — arguably the most powerful and emotionally intense arc in the entire series. Instead of continuing that momentum, the show stops completely to deliver twenty-one episodes of flashbacks and side stories.
Various Hidden Leaf characters spend this entire arc reflecting on Naruto’s heroism. Characters like Iruka and Konohamaru narrate their memories in a format that feels repetitive and slow. Furthermore, none of it adds any new information to the story. As a result, this arc kills the pacing at exactly the wrong moment.
Verdict: Skip it entirely. Go directly from episode 175 to episode 197. You will not regret it.
Paradise Life on a Boat Arc — Episodes 223 to 242
If there is one arc that every Naruto Shippuden filler list agrees on skipping, it is this one. The Paradise Life on a Boat arc occurs during a transitional period when Naruto and his escort team are traveling by sea. For twenty full episodes, almost nothing of importance happens.
The arc is a collection of disconnected comedy episodes and low-stakes side stories. Moreover, none of the characters develop in any meaningful way during this stretch. In contrast to arcs like the Kakashi ANBU arc, which uses its filler runtime to explore deep emotional territory, this arc simply wastes time.
Verdict: Skip it completely. Jump from episode 222 directly to episode 243. This is the most skippable arc in the entire Naruto Shippuden filler list.
Power Arc — Episodes 290 to 295
The Power arc is a short filler arc set during the Fourth Shinobi World War. A small team investigates mysterious deaths connected to an anime-original version of events involving Kabuto. In addition, the arc features relatively high production values compared to most filler, and the action sequences are well-animated.
However, none of these events connect to the main story. Therefore, you can move from episode 289 to episode 296 without any confusion.
Verdict: Optional. It is short and watchable, but skippable for canon-focused viewers.
Kakashi — Shadow of the ANBU Black Ops Arc — Episodes 349 to 361
This is without question the best arc on the entire Naruto Shippuden filler list. In fact, most longtime fans argue it should not even be classified as filler because of how well it fits into the established lore.
The arc explores Kakashi Hatake’s life as an ANBU operative following the tragic death of Rin Nohara. Furthermore, it shows a young Itachi Uchiha during his own ANBU days, creating one of the most compelling character pairings in the entire series. As a result, watching these two broken, brilliant characters navigate their grief together is genuinely moving.
In addition, the arc fills in enormous gaps in Kakashi’s backstory — his relationship with his father, his friendship with Obito, and the psychological weight he has carried his entire life. The tone is dark, mature, and emotionally powerful in a way that most canon arcs rarely achieve.
Verdict: Must watch. This is the one filler arc in the Naruto Shippuden filler list that you should never skip under any circumstances.
In Naruto’s Footsteps — Episodes 394 to 413
This arc depicts a second Chunin Exam that takes place before the Fourth Shinobi World War. It follows various members of the Konoha 11 — including Hinata, Shino, Kiba, and Neji — competing in exams hosted by the Hidden Leaf and Hidden Sand villages. Moreover, it gives significant screentime to characters who are often overshadowed by Naruto and Sasuke throughout the main story.
On the other hand, none of these events connect to the manga’s main timeline. Therefore, skipping from episode 393 to episode 414 will not leave any gaps in your understanding.
Verdict: Optional. Worth watching for fans of the supporting cast. However, it is fully skippable for canon-only viewers.
Jiraiya Shinobi Handbook Arc — Episodes 432 to 450
This arc adapts a story-within-a-story — the fictional novel that Jiraiya wrote imagining an alternate version of Naruto’s journey. In other words, it is a full alternate-universe retelling of familiar events with familiar characters in new contexts.
For longtime fans, this arc functions as a love letter to the series. Furthermore, it gives beloved characters who died in the main story — most notably Jiraiya himself — one final, emotional moment on screen. As a result, many fans find this arc deeply moving even though it is not canon.
Verdict: Worth watching for emotionally invested fans. In particular, if Jiraiya is one of your favorite characters, this arc will hit hard.
Itachi Shinden — Book of Bright Light Arc — Episodes 451 to 458
This arc adapts the officially licensed Itachi Shinden light novels, which were published by Shueisha with Masashi Kishimoto’s involvement and approval. Therefore, while the content was not in the original manga, it carries significantly more legitimacy than typical studio filler.
The arc tells the story of Itachi Uchiha’s early life — his time at the Academy, his friendship with a childhood companion named Izumi, and the early experiences that shaped him into one of the most complex characters in anime history. In addition, it provides full emotional context for the impossible choice Itachi made during the Uchiha Clan Massacre.
Furthermore, the arc is beautifully produced and paced, making it one of the most polished arcs in the entire Naruto Shippuden filler list.
Verdict: Must watch. Strongly recommended for anyone who loves Itachi’s character, which is most Naruto fans.
Konoha Hiden — The Perfect Day for a Wedding Arc — Episodes 494 to 500
The final arc of the entire series is a warm, joyful celebration. Taking place before Naruto and Hinata’s wedding, each episode follows a different character searching for the perfect gift. Moreover, the arc gives meaningful final moments to characters like Shikamaru, Choji, Rock Lee, Sai, and Kiba.
In addition, after five hundred episodes of war, grief, and sacrifice, this gentle farewell feels completely earned. Furthermore, it sends off the entire cast in a way that is funny, sweet, and deeply satisfying.
Verdict: Must watch. This arc is the emotional goodbye to an entire era of storytelling, and it is worth every minute.
Naruto Shippuden Filler Episodes — Full Skip List
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If your goal is to follow only the main canon story, here is every arc and episode cluster you can skip without missing a single important plot moment.
| Arc or Cluster | Episodes to Skip |
|---|---|
| Twelve Guardian Ninja (partial) | 57–71 |
| Three-Tails Appearance Arc | 91–112 |
| Six-Tails Unleashed Arc | 145–151 |
| Past: Locus of Konoha Arc | 176–196 |
| Paradise Life on a Boat Arc | 223–242 |
| Filler Bridge Episodes | 257–260 |
| Single Filler Episodes | 271, 279–281 |
| Pre-War Filler Cluster | 284–289 |
| Power Arc | 290–295 |
| War Filler Cluster | 303–320 |
| Bridge Filler Episodes | 327–328, 347–348 |
| Kakashi ANBU Arc | 349–361 (recommend watching) |
| Short Filler Cluster | 376–377 |
| Hanabi Filler Episodes | 389–390 |
| In Naruto’s Footsteps Arc | 394–413 |
| Bridge Filler Episodes | 416–417, 422–423 |
| Jiraiya Handbook Arc | 432–450 (recommend watching) |
| End War Filler Cluster | 464–469 |
| Childhood Arc | 480–483 |
How to Watch Naruto Shippuden Without Filler
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Following the Naruto Shippuden filler list efficiently means knowing exactly where to jump in and where to jump out. Here is a simplified path through the canon content only.
Phase One — Episodes 1 to 53
Start from the very beginning. Episodes 1 through 53 cover the Kazekage Rescue Arc and the Sasuke and Sai Arc. Both are fully canon and essential for understanding the story. Moreover, these arcs establish the new team dynamics, introduce Sai and Yamato, and set up the Akatsuki threat properly.
Phase Two — Episodes 54 to 88
Watch episodes 54 and 55 for the wind-nature chakra training. After that, skip episodes 56 through 71 and resume at episode 72 for the Hidan and Kakuzu Arc. Furthermore, this is one of the strongest arcs in the entire series, featuring one of the most emotional deaths in the show. Continue through episode 88 without interruption.
Phase Three — Episodes 89 to 175
Skip the Three-Tails arc from episode 91 to 112 and resume at episode 113. In addition, skip episode 144 through 151 for the Six-Tails arc and resume at episode 152. This section contains the Pain invasion arc — one of the greatest story arcs in anime history. Therefore, pay close attention from episode 152 through 175.
Phase Four — Episodes 176 to 242
Skip the entire Locus of Konoha arc from episode 176 to 196 and resume at episode 197. Continue through episode 222. After that, skip the boat arc entirely from episode 223 to 242 and resume at episode 243.
Phase Five — Episodes 243 to 500
This phase covers the Five Kage Summit aftermath and the entire Fourth Shinobi World War. However, there are multiple filler clusters scattered throughout this long stretch. Use the skip table above to identify and jump over those clusters as you encounter them. As a result, you will stay focused on the canon war storyline without losing momentum.
Best Filler Arcs in the Naruto Shippuden Filler List Worth Watching
Not all filler is a waste of time. In fact, some arcs on the Naruto Shippuden filler list are genuinely excellent and add meaningful depth to characters you love.
Kakashi ANBU Arc — Episodes 349 to 361 The best filler arc in the entire series. It explores Kakashi’s past in a way the manga never did. Moreover, it features a young Itachi in a context that makes both characters more complex and compelling. Do not skip this one.
Itachi Shinden Arc — Episodes 451 to 458 Based on officially approved light novels. Furthermore, it gives Itachi’s early life the emotional depth his story always deserved. Most fans consider this essential viewing regardless of its filler classification.
Konoha Hiden Wedding Arc — Episodes 494 to 500 A warm and wonderful farewell to the entire cast. In addition, after everything these characters have been through, watching them celebrate Naruto’s wedding is the perfect emotional ending.
Three-Tails Appearance Arc — Episodes 91 to 112 The best traditional filler arc in terms of world-building. Guren is a genuinely great anime-original character. Moreover, the tailed beast themes connect meaningfully to the larger story.
Jiraiya Shinobi Handbook Arc — Episodes 432 to 450 A heartfelt tribute to one of the most beloved characters in the series. Furthermore, for fans who were devastated by Jiraiya’s death in the canon story, this arc provides a form of emotional closure.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About the Naruto Shippuden Filler List
How many filler episodes does Naruto Shippuden have?
Naruto Shippuden has approximately 203 filler episodes out of a total of 500. That gives the series a filler percentage of around 41 percent, making it one of the highest filler rates among major long-running anime series. However, around 297 episodes are canon or mixed canon, giving you plenty of essential content to watch.
Can I skip all the filler in the Naruto Shippuden filler list without missing anything?
Yes, absolutely. Every filler episode and filler arc in the Naruto Shippuden filler list can be skipped without missing any content from Kishimoto’s original manga. Furthermore, the main story remains completely intact and fully understandable if you skip all non-canon content.
Which filler arc in the Naruto Shippuden filler list is the best?
The Kakashi Shadow of the ANBU Black Ops arc covering episodes 349 to 361 is widely considered the best filler arc in the series. In addition, the Itachi Shinden arc from episodes 451 to 458 is a close second for fans who love Itachi’s character.
Which arc should I skip first on the Naruto Shippuden filler list?
The most important arc to skip is the Paradise Life on a Boat arc from episodes 223 to 242. It is unanimously considered the worst filler in the series and adds absolutely nothing to the story. Moreover, it interrupts the buildup to the Fourth Shinobi World War at the worst possible time.
What episode does the first filler start in Naruto Shippuden?
The first fully filler content in the Naruto Shippuden filler list begins around episode 57. However, episodes 54 and 55 are partially canon because of Naruto’s wind chakra training. The first major all-filler arc does not begin until episode 91 with the Three-Tails Appearance arc.
How many episodes do I need to watch if I skip all filler?
If you follow the Naruto Shippuden filler list and skip all pure filler episodes, you will watch approximately 297 episodes. In other words, you are saving yourself from watching over 200 episodes of non-canon content, which equals dozens of hours of your time.
Is the Itachi Shinden arc really filler?
Technically yes, because it was not in Kishimoto’s original manga. However, the Itachi Shinden arc is based on officially licensed light novels that were produced with Kishimoto’s knowledge and approval. Therefore, most fans treat it as near-canon and strongly recommend watching it alongside the main story.
Does the Naruto Shippuden filler list affect the ending of the series?
No. The canon ending of Naruto Shippuden — covering the final battle, the aftermath of the war, and Naruto’s path to becoming Hokage — is entirely unaffected by filler. Moreover, you can skip every non-canon episode and still experience the full emotional impact of the series conclusion.
What happens in the Konoha Hiden wedding arc at the end?
The Konoha Hiden arc from episodes 494 to 500 follows various characters searching for the perfect wedding gift for Naruto and Hinata. Each episode focuses on a different character or group. Furthermore, it serves as a lighthearted and emotional farewell to the entire cast before the series ends.
Is the Naruto Shippuden filler list the same for every streaming platform?
Yes. The episode numbers in the Naruto Shippuden filler list remain consistent regardless of which platform you use to watch the series. Whether you watch on Crunchyroll, Netflix, or any other service, the filler episodes are the same numbered episodes across every platform.
Conclusion: Your Final Naruto Shippuden Filler List Summary
The Naruto Shippuden filler list is the most important tool any viewer needs before starting this legendary series. With around 203 filler episodes spread across 500 total, knowing what to watch and what to skip is the difference between a smooth, exciting viewing experience and a frustrating slog through content that goes nowhere.
To summarize everything in this guide — skip the boat arc, skip the Locus of Konoha flashbacks, and skip the disconnected comedy episodes scattered throughout the Fourth Shinobi World War. However, do not skip Kakashi’s ANBU story. Do not skip Itachi’s early life. And when you finally reach the end of all 500 episodes, absolutely do not skip the wedding.
Naruto Uzumaki spent his entire life fighting to be acknowledged, to protect everyone he loved, and to become Hokage. That journey — experienced in its full canon form with the best filler included — is as powerful and moving today as it was when the first episode aired in 2007. Moreover, now that you have this complete Naruto Shippuden filler list in hand, you have everything you need to experience that journey the right way.
Use this guide, share it with a fellow fan, and get ready for one of the greatest anime stories ever told.