5 Naruto Storylines That Show Not All Anime Filler Is Worthless

Anime enthusiasts frequently express their dissatisfaction with filler episodes; however, Naruto stands out as an exceptional example where filler enhances the narrative. It serves as a significant asset, enriching the show’s often limited world-building. The filler arcs shed light on the darker elements of the Naruto universe while also capturing the lighter, everyday antics of Konoha’s young shinobi.

Across both Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden, approximately 43% is categorized as filler. While much of this filler is engaging, there are inevitable lows amidst the extensive selection. Nevertheless, some filler arcs are compelling and can rival the main storyline, ultimately comprising some of the series’ finest moments.

5 In Naruto’s Footsteps: The Friends’ Paths Arc

This Filler Builds Out Characters Who Naruto Had Forgotten For Far Too Long

Episodes	Naruto: Shippuden #394-413
Highlights	Lee and Shira bond over their mutual struggles with ninjutsu (and then clash in battle). Several Konoha shinobi are promoted to Chunin by the arc’s conclusion.

The “In Naruto’s Footsteps: The Friends’ Paths”arc, often referred to as the second Chunin Exams arc, is unfortunately positioned during a climactic moment in the series—the Fourth Great Ninja War. This timing is detrimental as it disrupts the momentum of an intense storyline, hindering its reception. Despite this challenge, the arc brilliantly explores characters who have been sidelined, making it a noteworthy addition to the series.

As Sakura struggles to revive a comatose Naruto during the war, Tsunade reflects on the Chunin Exams she orchestrated while Naruto was training with Jiraiya and Sasuke was with Orochimaru. This arc provides a valuable glimpse into the unspecified timeline between Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden, bridging the gap and linking both halves together. Additionally, the context explains Tsunade’s motivation behind organizing the exams as a bait for the Akatsuki, reinforcing the narrative continuity.

This filler arc revitalizes characters previously neglected in the storyline. For instance, Sakura teams with Team Asuma, breaking free from the usual dichotomy created by Sasuke and Naruto. Tenten, too, shines during this arc, showcasing her abilities and individuality apart from Team Guy.

4 Three-Tails’ Appearance Arc

Naruto Sets The Stakes For Jinchuriki With One Of Its Most Beloved Filler Arcs

Episodes	Naruto: Shippuden #89-112
Highlights	Guren returns to rescue the Three-Tails jinchuriki.

One notable issue with Naruto: Shippuden is its treatment of world-building, especially concerning the jinchuriki and Tailed Beasts—central to the overarching plot yet rarely explored in-depth. Thankfully, the Three-Tails arc addresses this gap, introducing Guren, a beloved character unique to the anime, who employs captivating crystal jutsu and forms a strong bond with the young jinchuriki.

Guren is tasked by Orochimaru to capture the Three-Tails and faces off against Kakashi and Team 8, consisting of Shino, Kiba, and Hinata. As the arc unfolds, other characters such as Naruto, Sai, Shizune, and Sakura join the fight. Though Konoha manages to fend off Team Guren, they cannot seal the Tailed Beast. Subsequently, Deidara and Tobi emerge, capturing the beast—a brilliant blend of canon and filler that intertwines seamlessly.

3 Kakashi: Shadow of the ANBU Arc

Naruto’s Least Skippable Filler Is Vital World-Building

Kakashi from Naruto anime looks down at his hand in Shadow Of The Black Anbu episode.

Episodes	Naruto: Shippuden #349-361
Highlights	Sarutobi’s pivotal decision to appoint Minato as Hokage. Itachi’s complex role within Root as he navigates family and clan loyalties.

One of the most impactful and significant filler arcs in anime is Kakashi’s Shadow of the ANBU arc. It elevates filler to a remarkable level, profoundly deepening Kakashi’s character while also fleshing out pivotal figures within the Naruto universe.

Itachi’s character experiences notable expansion here. The arc delves into his internal conflicts as he joins ANBU, working under Danzo while balancing his obligations to the Uchiha clan. Furthermore, it sheds light on Orochimaru’s defection from Konoha and paints a vivid picture of Yamato’s backstory as the ANBU member known as Kinoe. Another noteworthy aspect is the ambiguous portrayal of Danzo’s character.

The Naruto community widely regards this arc as unskippable, having achieved a level of acclaim that few other fillers have attained. Kakashi: Shadow of the ANBU showcases how filler can advance a central story without overshadowing it, blending seamlessly with the narrative.

2 Paradise Life On A Boat Arc

Naruto’s Most Endearing Filler Arc, No Contest

The ghost ship and Naruto's ship sailing side by side in Naruto Shippuden

Episodes	Naruto: Shippuden #223-242
Highlights	Sai’s developing bond with Team 7 in “Sai’s Day Off”(Episode #325). Naruto’s comedic mishap with poisonous mushrooms. The team aids a fisherman seeking revenge for his father’s death.

While not universally appreciated, the Paradise Life On A Boat arc exemplifies how filler can harness humor and lightness within Naruto. Set against the backdrop of the impending Fourth Great Ninja War, the story follows Naruto and his companions being escorted to an island for protection. The journey allows for delightful comedic moments, such as Naruto being captured by his own shadow clones, alongside opportunities for character growth, including a reunion among Konoha’s female shinobi.

This arc demonstrates a contrasting role for Naruto’s filler, opting for a lighter tone rather than the serious tones seen in other arcs. It beautifully balances humor and suspense, illustrating the versatility of the characters.

1 Six-Tails Unleashed Arc

This Heartbreaking Arc Shows That Filler Can Be As Good As Canon

Utakata protects Naruto inside a bubble in Naruto Shippuden

Episodes	Naruto: Shippuden #144-151
Highlights	Utakata permits Hotaru to address him as her master.

Like the Three-Tails arc, the Six-Tails Unleashed arc showcases the depth filler adds to the Naruto narrative. It addresses the narrative gap left by the often overlooked jinchuriki and Tailed Beasts. Unlike the action-driven Three-Tails arc, this filler brilliantly integrates itself into the plot in a way that feels just as legitimate as the main story, highlighting the nuances of jinchuriki characters who otherwise remain in the shadows.

The poignant relationship between Utakata and Hotaru is at the heart of this arc. The story explores Utakata’s complex backstory as a jinchuriki and his reluctance to become a mentor due to unresolved grief surrounding his deceased master. Their bond develops as they spend time together, marking one of the most life-affirming narratives in Naruto that resonates with empathy.

The arc’s tragic conclusion is heart-wrenching, as Konoha’s ninjas confront Pain after Naruto’s capture. Utakata ultimately faces a devastating fate when Pain extracts his Tailed Beast, leading to his demise. Hotaru remains unaware of his death, symbolizing a heartbreaking separation reminiscent of Hachiko’s story.

Describing the emotional impact of this arc is challenging; it successfully intertwines music, pacing, character interactions, dialogue, and drama, forming an unforgettable experience. Reflecting on the list, each arc exemplifies how Naruto‘s filler holds equal weight to any of its canonical storytelling. It ultimately reaffirms that filler can be just as essential as the main plot.

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