Unveiling the Ultimate Must-Watch Naruto Filler Episodes That Truly Elevate the Series

Naruto fans may need some convincing to accept that certain filler episodes actually enhance the series. With a whopping seven hundred episodes, nearly half of them being filler, it can be challenging to distinguish between the good and the bad. Nevertheless, there are numerous reasons why Naruto's filler arcs should not be skipped.

Regardless of whether they take a humorous or dramatic approach, Naruto's filler episodes grant ample opportunity for its extensive cast of characters to shine, something that the main storyline occasionally struggles with. The expansive shinobi world is also utilized effectively in some of these filler episodes, offering interesting and insightful expansions on the existing narrative.

10 Gotta See! Gotta Know! Kakashi-sensei's True Face!

There are numerous inquiries surrounding the character Kakashi Hatake in the Naruto series, but one of the most pressing is the reason behind his constant mask-wearing. Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, as well as devoted fans, share the same curiosity, which forms the plot of the episode titled "Gotta See! Gotta Know! Kakashi-sensei's True Face!" In this storyline, the trio relentlessly follows Kakashi throughout the day, eagerly anticipating the moments when he may remove his mask, only to be thwarted at every attempt.

However, the revelation that there is yet another mask hidden behind Kakashi's initial mask is merely the initial twist. The true punchline to this joke is unveiled many years later, in the Shippuden episode titled "A Special Mission." In this installment, Kakashi eventually removes both masks, exposing a remarkably average face that shocks everyone.

9 Kiba's Long Day!

Akamaru and the other dogs of the Inuzuka clan are renowned for being the best animal companions in the Naruto series. "Kiba's Long Day" serves as a means to strengthen the bond between the Inuzuka clan and their faithful companions. Additionally, it offers significant character development for Kiba, who is considered one of the most noteworthy secondary characters in Naruto. Kiba is deeply concerned when Akamaru falls ill, fearing that his beloved companion may have to be euthanized. He goes to great lengths to help Akamaru, attempting to free him from Anbu containment, engaging in fights with both Naruto and his sister to protect him, and even risking his own life to administer a risky cure to his loyal dog. In the midst of it all, Akamaru fights against the disease, determined not to harm Kiba, which demonstrates the overpowering strength of their friendship despite the adversity they face.

8 Laughing Shino

Upon first glance, the idea of Naruto and Shino being employed as bodyguards does not appear to be amusing. In order to prevent the loss of his inheritance, a wealthy heir must refrain from laughing at his father's funeral, prompting the ever-serious Shino to pose as him. However, when the next rightful heirs poison Shino, causing him to burst into uncontrollable laughter, Naruto must step in to fill his friend's shoes.

While Shino may not receive as much recognition as the other members of the Konoha 12, he demonstrates in this episode that he is willing to go to great lengths to accomplish a mission and that his demeanor is not as cold and devoid of emotions as people perceive. The only thing more comical than Shino making a spectacle of himself to assist Naruto is his straightforward insistence on Naruto maintaining absolute secrecy thereafter.

7 Land Of Tea Arc

In the initial episode, Naruto and Iruka managed to overcome Mizuki's manipulations and emerge stronger. Had it not been for their fortune, Naruto could have easily fallen victim to Aoi's schemes, similar to Idate Morino, who was tricked into betraying the village as a child and suffered lifelong shame. However, Idate's escape is only temporary as Team 7 is protecting him from the relentless assassin, Aoi.

This particular story arc is noteworthy for the convergence of various conflicts. From the intense race itself, where Naruto aids Idate in rediscovering his self-esteem, to the intense battles against Aoi, the excitement never wanes. Furthermore, Aoi's initial dominance over Team 7 intensifies Sasuke's insecurities, as it serves as one of the defeats he reflects upon before making the decision to defect.

6 Animal District

When discussing the funniest episodes of Naruto, "Animal District" inevitably brings up the memorable ostrich character. Known as Condor, this ill-tempered bird appears in multiple episodes and is determined to make life difficult for any shinobi who crosses his path. He may be Naruto's most underestimated rival, but in his own mind, he is incredibly powerful.

In his inaugural episode, "Naruto's School of Revenge," Condor is portrayed as a troublesome runaway who pecks at those who annoy him. However, after suffering defeat at the hands of Naruto, Condor undergoes rapid development. He learns to talk, becomes skilled in ninjutsu, and eventually becomes the leader of the Four Ninja Animal Warriors in his subsequent appearance. Despite being defeated once again, Condor refuses to abandon his dream of defeating Naruto.

5 Blaze Away, Byakugan! This Is My Ninja Way!

Hinata's journey is often overshadowed by other characters, but her transformation from the original Naruto to the end of Shippuden is of great significance. While this becomes more apparent in the latter part, the seeds of her growth are evident as early as "Blaze Away, Byakugan! This Is My Ninja Way!". As Naruto is determined to search for Sasuke, Hinata and their other friends stand unwaveringly by his side.

Throughout the years, Hinata has admired Naruto for his unwavering determination to overcome any obstacle. In this moment, she demonstrates the extent of her own hard work and growth after the Chuunin Exam arc, utilizing her Protecting Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms technique to rescue her comrades. Despite Naruto's mission ending in failure, Hinata manages to change the way her loved ones perceive her.

4 Kakashi: Shadow of the Anbu Black Ops

This exceptional thirteen-episode arc has garnered such immense praise from fans that it is widely regarded as deserving a revered place in the canon story. From showcasing Kakashi's adventurous life as a part of the Anbu, the Leaf Village's elite assassination and tactical squad, to providing insightful glimpses into the formative years of other beloved characters, the episode captures the hearts of viewers.

While Kakashi endures heartbreaking losses, such as the tragic demise of Minato and Kushina due to the Nine-Tails' assault, and his perceived failure in preventing Itachi from turning rogue, the audience also witnesses his unwavering commitment to safeguarding those dear to him. One notable instance is his intervention to save a young Yamato from assassinating Hiruzen, ensuring Yamato's unscathed escape with the belief that it would benefit the village. Additionally, his tendency to reject potential genin teams stems from a deep-rooted desire to shield them from sharing the fate of his own ill-fated team.

3 Hot-Blooded Confrontation! Student Versus Sensei!

The indomitable Might Gai, leader of Team Gai and esteemed teacher in Naruto, is regarded as one of the best teachers in the series. He holds a special emphasis on his fellow taijutsu specialist, Rock Lee. Despite Lee's lack of ninjutsu or genjutsu, Gai has unwavering faith in his ability to become a great shinobi, a belief that Lee wholeheartedly idolizes. This particular episode not only highlights the strong bond between Gai and Lee, but also showcases their individual strengths.

During a tumultuous situation where Gai and Lee are ensnared in a genjutsu that causes them to perceive each other as enemies, they are not deceived. Employing the techniques learned from their master-student relationship, they skillfully free themselves from the illusion without causing harm to one another. Instead of seeking revenge against their attackers, Gai seizes the opportunity to impart a valuable lesson on what it means to be an honorable shinobi, aligning with his approach to teaching his students.

2 Naruto's Favorite Pupil

Naruto's ultimate ambition is to become the revered leader of his village, being someone whom everyone admires and looks up to. Among the first individuals to perceive him as a role model is Konohamaru, the young grandson of the Third Hokage. Naruto left such a profound impression on him during their initial encounter that Konohamaru begins to mature and earnestly strive towards his own aspiration of becoming Hokage.

In this particular episode of Shippuden, despite Naruto's absence, an older Konohamaru perseveres in adhering to the WWND ("What Would Naruto Do?") philosophy. Following Pain's devastating attack on the Leaf Village, he yearns to make a significant contribution to the recovery of his home, only to be reminded that his unwavering dedication to its protection is valuable in itself. Konohamaru's flawless execution of a Rasengan serves as a powerful testament to the remarkable progress he has made on his journey as a shinobi.

1 Arrival Of The Three-Tails Arc

These episodes are praised for featuring one of the most remarkable villains in Naruto. Guren is a devoted follower of Orochimaru, to the extent that she is devastated by the fact that she cannot serve as her master's next host. She amuses herself by keeping an eye on Yuukimaru, who is designated for use in Orochimaru's experiments, but things do not go as planned.

Yuukimaru's kind and gentle nature soothes Guren's icy heart, and she realizes that she cannot let any harm come to him. Despite her devastatingly powerful Crystal Style, which makes her a deadly weapon, she discovers a new purpose in becoming Yuukimaru's protector. Unlike many of Orochimaru's former followers and those associated with the Tailed Beasts, the two of them manage to escape the conflicts of the shinobi world and find happiness together.

The anime adaptation of Naruto includes numerous standalone filler episodes and story arcs, but surprisingly, many of them contribute to the narrative and character growth of the extensive ensemble cast. Although these parts are often excluded in watch-guides, it might not be a bad idea for dedicated fans of Naruto to consider giving them a chance.