How to watch

Naruto Anime Watch Order in the correct order

How to watch the Naruto anime series in order

Last updated: July 6 2026

Written by: ChronoChris

Naruto is one of the most iconic anime franchises of all time, following a young ninja's journey from outcast to hero. With hundreds of episodes, films, and a sequel series, knowing the watch order can feel overwhelming—but this guide makes it simple.

Masashi Kishimoto's Naruto has captivated audiences worldwide since the manga began in 1999. The anime adaptation spans two core series—Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden—plus a sequel series following Naruto's son, Boruto. Add in a handful of theatrical films and you have one of anime's most expansive universes. Here's how to tackle it all.

🕐 Release Order

The release order follows how the anime was originally broadcast, which is also the best way to experience the story for newcomers.

  1. Naruto (2002–2007) — Episodes 1–220
  2. Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow (2004)
  3. Naruto the Movie 2: Legend of the Stone of Gelel (2005)
  4. Naruto the Movie 3: Guardians of the Crescent Moon Kingdom (2006)
  5. Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017) — Episodes 1–500
  6. Naruto Shippuden the Movie (2007)
  7. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: Bonds (2008)
  8. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Will of Fire (2009)
  9. Naruto Shippuden the Movie: The Lost Tower (2010)
  10. Naruto the Movie: Blood Prison (2011)
  11. Road to Ninja: Naruto the Movie (2012)
  12. The Last: Naruto the Movie (2014)
  13. Boruto: Naruto the Movie (2015)
  14. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017–2023)
  15. Boruto: Two Blue Vortex (2023–present)

A note on filler: Naruto and Shippuden have a significant amount of filler episodes. Many fans recommend watching filler-free episode lists to keep the pacing tight, especially in the original Naruto series.

📖 Story Chronology

The chronological story order largely matches the release order. Most films are side stories set during the main series timeline. The Last and Boruto: Naruto the Movie serve as bridges between Shippuden and the Boruto era.

  1. Naruto (2002–2007)
  2. Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017)
  3. The Last: Naruto the Movie (2014) — set after Shippuden
  4. Boruto: Naruto the Movie (2015)
  5. Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017–2023)
  6. Boruto: Two Blue Vortex (2023–present)

Which Order Should You Choose?

Start with the original Naruto series, then proceed to Shippuden—this is non-negotiable for understanding the characters and world. Watch The Last before Boruto, as it bridges the two eras. Whether you dive into Boruto depends on your appetite for a new generation of characters, but Shippuden alone is one of anime's greatest achievements and a complete story in itself.

🔗 Related Guides

  • Dragon Ball Watch OrderGuide
  • Attack on Titan Watch OrderGuide
  • Demon Slayer Watch OrderGuide

Did we miss anything? Let us know and we'll keep this guide up to date!