Naruto Chronological Order: How to Watch Naruto Correctly

# Naruto Chronological Order: Complete Guide 2026

The Naruto franchise spans multiple series, movies, and spin-offs across decades. Understanding the chronological order of Naruto is essential for experiencing the story as intended. This comprehensive guide covers everything.

Understanding Naruto's Timeline

Naruto spans three main eras:

1. Original Naruto (2002-2007) - Naruto's childhood and academy years
2. Naruto Shippuden (2007-2017) - Naruto's teenage years and major conflicts
3. Boruto (2017-present) - Naruto's adult years as Hokage

Complete Chronological Order

Original Naruto Series (Episodes 1-220)

Arc 1: Introduction Arc (Episodes 1-19)

• Naruto's introduction and academy entrance
• Meeting Sasuke and Sakura
• First missions with Team 7

Arc 2: Land of Waves Arc (Episodes 20-36)

• First major mission outside the village
• Introduction to Zabuza and Haku
• Sasuke's awakening of Sharingan

Arc 3: Chunin Exam Arc (Episodes 37-119)

• The major tournament arc
• Introduction to Sound Village
• Orochimaru's first appearance

Arc 4: Konoha Crush Arc (Episodes 120-126)

• Invasion of Konoha
• Sasuke's defection
• Naruto's pursuit of Sasuke

Arc 5: Search for Tsunade Arc (Episodes 127-160)

• Team 7 searches for Tsunade
• Introduction to Jiraiya
• Naruto learns Rasengan

Arc 6: Sasuke Retrieval Arc (Episodes 161-220)

• Final arc of original series
• Naruto's growth and determination
• Transition to Shippuden

Naruto Shippuden Series (Episodes 1-500)

Arc 1: Kazekage Rescue Arc (Episodes 1-32)

• Naruto returns after 2.5 years training
• Gaara's kidnapping by Akatsuki
• First major Akatsuki encounter

Arc 2: Sasuke and Sai Arc (Episodes 33-53)

• Introduction to Sai
• Sasuke's search for Itachi
• Orochimaru's decline

Arc 3: Twelve Guardian Ninja Arc (Episodes 54-71)

• Asuma's death
• Introduction to Pain
• Naruto's growing power

Arc 4: Pain's Assault Arc (Episodes 152-169)

• Major turning point
• Naruto learns of Jiraiya's death
• Nine-Tailed Fox awakens

Arc 5: Five Kage Summit Arc (Episodes 197-214)

• Sasuke seeks revenge on Naruto
• Formation of Team Taka
• Political intrigue

Arc 6: Fourth Shinobi World War Arc (Episodes 261-500)

• Largest war in Naruto history
• Resurrection of fallen shinobi
• Naruto vs. Sasuke final battle

Recommended Watching Order

Option 1: Chronological Order (Recommended)

1. Original Naruto (220 episodes)
2. Naruto Shippuden (500 episodes)
3. Movies in chronological placement
4. Boruto (ongoing)

Option 2: Story-First Order

1. Original Naruto (skip filler if desired)
2. Naruto Shippuden (skip filler if desired)
3. The Last movie (before Boruto)
4. Boruto series

Conclusion

Understanding Naruto's chronological order enhances your viewing experience. Follow this guide to experience the complete story in the intended sequence.