Naruto Filler Guide: Which Part 1 Episodes to Skip

While the Naruto anime series concluded years ago, many new viewers are still discovering this iconic anime. However, newcomers quickly realize Naruto contains a significant amount of filler content. For first-time watchers, knowing which episodes are skippable filler is crucial to enjoying the main storyline without unnecessary diversions. This guide will help you navigate Naruto Part 1 filler episodes, ensuring you focus on the canon story and character development.

Naruto isn’t unique in having filler; many long-running anime adaptations of manga series face the same challenge. Initially, Naruto episodes adapted several manga chapters at a time, but the anime production soon caught up to the manga’s weekly release. To avoid overtaking the source material, anime studios often introduce filler content – episodes or entire arcs not present in the original manga. While sometimes these filler episodes can offer enjoyable side stories, many viewers prefer to stick to the main narrative.

Navigating Naruto Part 1 Filler Episodes: A Complete Guide

Of the 220 episodes in Naruto Part 1, a substantial 91 are classified as filler. These episodes, original stories not written by Masashi Kishimoto, often appear between canon arcs. The majority of Naruto filler in Part 1 occurs after episode 135, which is where the anime storyline surpasses the manga before the Naruto Shippuden time skip. For fans watching as episodes were released weekly, this meant enduring almost two years of filler, ranging from lighthearted character explorations to storylines that felt inconsequential and time-wasting.

Here’s a breakdown of every filler episode in Naruto Part 1:

This means that approximately 41% of Naruto Part 1 consists of filler episodes. For viewers wanting a streamlined experience focused on Masashi Kishimoto’s original story, skipping these 91 episodes can significantly reduce viewing time and keep the narrative focused.

Filler Episodes to Avoid in Naruto Part 1

Many Naruto filler episodes are considered skippable because they don’t contribute to the overarching plot or character development. The least engaging filler episodes often introduce new, forgettable characters or misrepresent established characters, sometimes even simplifying them for weak storylines that have no impact on the main narrative. These episodes often feel like pure time-fillers rather than attempts to add meaningful content.

One example of a poorly received filler episode is “Ino Screams! Chubby Paradise!” which had the potential to develop Sakura’s rival, Ino Yamanaka. However, instead of adding depth, this episode relies on body-shaming humor and arguably makes Ino appear more shallow. Determining the “worst” filler is subjective, as fan opinions vary. Some may find amusement in episodes like “The Appearance of Strange Visitors,” featuring Guy and Rock Lee impersonators, or even the “Land of Rice Fields Investigation Mission,” while others find them tedious.

Hidden Gems: Worthwhile Naruto Part 1 Filler Episodes

While skipping filler can expedite your Naruto viewing experience, some non-canon episodes offer entertaining side stories, introduce interesting abilities, and expand the Naruto world in enjoyable ways. Watching filler episodes as they aired was a different experience than watching them now in retrospect. Some filler episodes surprisingly hold up as standalone adventures.

Naruto‘s appeal lies in its action, drama, and comedy blend. Some of the more appreciated filler episodes lean into the comedic aspects, particularly those centered around Team Guy, such as “The Kurosuki Family Removal Mission” and “Viva Dojo Challenge! Youth Is All About Passion!“. There are also surprisingly dramatic filler arcs with compelling storylines. The “Bikōchū Search Mission,” which involves Hinata, and the emotionally resonant “Menma Memory Search Mission” are often cited as examples of filler that adds depth.

As fans eagerly anticipate the new Naruto episodes, revisiting Naruto Part 1 filler episodes might reveal unexpected entertainment value. While not essential to the main plot, some filler offers lighter, comedic, or character-focused diversions that can enhance your overall Naruto experience.

Enjoy your Naruto journey, whether you choose to explore every episode or focus on the canon storyline!