Derived from the immensely popular manga created by Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto follows the journey of Naruto Uzumaki and his companions as they aim to become the top ninjas in their village. With the aspiration of becoming Hokage, the village leader, Naruto dedicates himself to saving and positively impacting the lives of those around him.
Set in a vibrant world filled with ninjas, thrilling adventures, magic, and deep bonds of friendship and family, the story captivates audiences. Despite Kishimoto concluding the manga in 2014 after a remarkable 15-year run, the enduring popularity of Naruto continues to thrive.
To truly appreciate the depth of the series, it’s essential to know how to watch Naruto in order. The narrative unfolds through various arcs, each contributing to character development and plot progression. If you’re just starting your journey with Naruto or gearing up for a nostalgic rewatch of this iconic shonen anime, we have everything you need.
Check out our comprehensive guide on how to watch Naruto in order, which includes the optimal sequence for enjoying both the movies and the series. Fortunately, you’ll find that the chronological order matches the release order, making it easier for you to follow along.
What’s the difference between Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden?
The anime series Naruto originally aired from 2002 to 2007, and its sequel, Shippuden, continued from 2007 to 2017. To understand how to watch Naruto in order, it’s essential to note that the two series depict a significant time progression: Naruto showcases the characters during their childhood, while Shippuden portrays them as they transition into young adulthood.
How to watch Naruto in chronological order
If you’re looking for guidance on how to watch Naruto in order, you’ve come to the right place. With countless hours of thrilling ninja battles, intense energy clashes, and epic sword fights, it’s essential to watch the series in a way that allows you to experience all the excitement without missing a beat. We suggest following a chronological format, which means immersing yourself in the Naruto universe as it unfolds through its historical timeline. Here’s the recommended viewing sequence:
- Naruto – Episodes 1-101
- Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow
- Naruto – Episodes 102-160
- Naruto the Movie: The Legend Stone of Gelel
- Naruto – Episodes 161-196
- Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom
- Naruto – Episodes 197-220
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 1-32
- Naruto Shippuden: The Movie
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 33-71
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 72-126
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 127-143
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 144-196
- Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 197-251
- Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 252-493
- The Last: Naruto the Movie
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 494-500
How to watch Naruto in release order
If you’re planning to dive into the world of Naruto, it’s important to note that some of the movies were released in Japan at times that don’t perfectly align with the storyline of the anime. This means that the events in the films may occur either before or after where the series was at that moment. However, if you’re looking to enjoy Naruto in a way that mirrors the experience of fans who watched it as it aired, here’s how to watch Naruto in order.
- Naruto – Episodes 1-97
- Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow
- Naruto – Episodes 98-145
- Naruto the Movie: The Legend Stone of Gelel
- Naruto – Episodes 146-195
- Naruto the Movie: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom
- Naruto – Episodes 196-220
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 1-23
- Naruto Shippuden: The Movie
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 24-69
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 70-120
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 121-171
- Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 172-222
- Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 223-271
- Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 272-390
- The Last: Naruto the Movie
- Naruto Shippuden – Episodes 391-500
How many Naruto episodes are there?
If you’re wondering how to watch Naruto in order, you might be interested to know that the original Naruto series consists of 220 episodes, while Naruto Shippuden has a total of 500 episodes. This brings the grand total to 720 episodes across both series, not to mention an additional ten movies to enjoy.
How Many Naruto Movies are There?
To learn how to watch Naruto in order, you should begin with the journey of the young ninja, who starts off as an orphan and grows into adulthood throughout the series. The franchise includes a total of eleven movies that fit within the narrative timeline, beginning with Naruto (1999), followed by Naruto Shippuden (2007), and concluding with Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017).
When figuring out how to watch Naruto in order, it’s essential to understand that nearly all of the films, with the exception of the last two—The Last: Naruto the Movie (2014) and Boruto: Naruto the Movie—are considered filler material. These films tell original stories and do not align with the official events of the Naruto series, meaning they are not part of the canon.
However, they do enhance the overall narrative by referencing key events from the series and providing additional context for character development and worldbuilding. In total, the Naruto franchise consists of 720 episodes, so for a comprehensive experience, it’s advisable to view the movies not just in sequence but also in relation to the timeline.
The Naruto Movies In Order
Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow (watch after episode 101)
In order to fully enjoy the Naruto series, it’s essential to know how to watch Naruto in order. The first film centers around young ninjas Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, also known as Team 7, as they are tasked with safeguarding an actress on her journey to the Land of Snow.
Although the actress is reluctant to travel, she needs to complete the final scenes of her movie. However, her mysterious past surfaces during their journey, forcing the team to confront challenges and protect her from those who wish to capture her.
“Ninja Clash” not only explores the evolving relationships within the group but also sheds light on their backstories. This film occurs after episode 101 in the Naruto storyline. As the adventure unfolds, viewers witness the growth of Team 7’s bonds and how they tackle the obstacles that arise from the actress’s hidden history.
Legend of the Stone of Gelel (watch after episode 160)
In the second film, Naruto, Sakura, and Shikamaru find themselves embroiled in a conflict over a formidable mineral known as the Stone of Gelel. Team Seven is tasked with protecting this stone, which bestows tremendous power upon its wielder, ensuring it doesn’t end up in the hands of those who would misuse it. For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch this movie after completing episode 106 of the Naruto series.
Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom (watch after episode 220)
The third film features Team 7 as they embark on a mission to safeguard a young prince named Hikaru Tsuki, along with his father, Michiru, as they return to their homeland. The prince’s entitled and materialistic nature proves to be a challenge for the team, who make efforts to instill a sense of humility in him. This storyline takes place following the events depicted in episode 196 of the Naruto series.
Naruto Shippuden Movies in Order
Naruto Shippuden the Movie (watch after episode 32)
Set after episode 32 of the Naruto Shippuden series, “Naruto Shippuden the Movie” features Naruto, Sakura, Rock Lee, and Neji embarking on a mission to safeguard a priestess as they journey to the location of a demon’s body. Their goal is to prevent the demon from resurrecting. Throughout this film, Naruto discovers that his destiny is to face death in battle against a formidable foe.
Bonds (watch after episode 71)
If you’re wondering how to watch Naruto in order, it’s essential to know that the series includes not just the main episodes but also movies that expand the storyline. In one of these films, Naruto, Hinata, and Sakura team up with a young boy named Amaru, who arrives with a crucial warning. The Land of the Sky is preparing to strike Konohagakure as vengeance for their actions during the Second Great Ninja War.
The Will of Fire (watch after episode 126)
As fans seek guidance on how to watch Naruto in order, the story unfolds with ninjas possessing unique kekkei genkai powers vanishing mysteriously. Kakashi, Naruto’s mentor, finds himself at risk of being the next to disappear.
While Naruto is resolute in his mission to rescue his sensei, the rest of the characters seem more inclined to point fingers rather than work together to solve the crisis. This film is set following episode 121 of the Shippuden series.
The Lost Tower (watch after episode 143)
The journey of watching Naruto in the correct sequence can be thrilling, especially when delving into pivotal story arcs. One such arc involves a mission where Naruto, along with his companions Yamato, Sakura, and Sai, seeks to apprehend a formidable Shinobi named Mukade.
Their quest leads them to a desolate city, where Mukade harbors plans to travel back in time to seize control of the Five Great Shinobi nations using the Ryūmyaku, a mystical chakra flow that lies beneath the ancient city of Rōran. As events unfold, the team finds themselves transported 20 years into the past.
Blood Prison (watch after episode 196)
If you’re wondering how to watch Naruto in order, you’ll want to pay attention to the timeline, especially when it comes to the films.
In this particular story, Naruto finds himself wrongfully accused of a crime and is imprisoned in Hozuki Castle, a place notorious for its high security, often referred to as the “Blood Prison.” To prove his innocence and uncover the dangers hidden within the prison walls, Naruto must hatch an escape plan.
It’s recommended to enjoy this film after reaching episode 196 in the Shippuden series to fully appreciate the context and character development.
Road to Ninja (watch after episode 251)
Naruto and Sakura find themselves trapped in a different realm when an individual tries to take the Nine-Tails from Naruto. This adventure explores alternate realities and what-ifs, occurring after episode 251 of the Shippuden series. For those interested in how to watch Naruto in order, this storyline adds an intriguing layer to the overall narrative.
The Last: Naruto the Movie (watch after episode 493)
How to watch Naruto in order involves knowing the sequence of episodes and films to fully appreciate the story. The Last serves as a conclusion to the Shippuden saga and is based on the work of Masashi Kishimoto. It is recommended to watch this film after completing episode 493.
This installment shifts focus from the typical action-packed narrative, as Naruto and his companions face a dire situation: the moon is on a collision course with Earth. During their quest to prevent this catastrophe, Naruto grapples with his emotions for Hinata Hyuuga and the implications of revealing his feelings to her. Indeed, The Last is more of a romantic tale than an action film.
Can I skip the Naruto movies?
If you’re wondering how to watch Naruto in order, it’s important to note that none of the Naruto films are considered part of the official storyline. These movies do not significantly influence the narrative or the characters, which means you can easily bypass them if you’re looking to get through the series more quickly.
However, the films do offer some impressive animation and entertaining moments, making them enjoyable if you have some spare time. Just remember, they won’t add anything crucial to the main story.
While the series itself is packed with rich character development and plot twists, the movies primarily serve as standalone experiences.
source: Gamerode