Land of Waves
Mixed canon — anime adds small moments throughout.
What to do
Watch all
Watch path
Before you watch
This arc introduces the real tone of the series. It is not just about ninja missions. It is about what strength means, what people protect, and what kind of world these characters live in.
Why it matters
Naruto, Sasuke, and Kakashi are all defined here. The emotional weight, the danger, and the core values of the series show up immediately.
While watching
Watch straight through. This is mixed canon, but nothing here should be skipped.
Arc energy
Episodes
1–19
Type
Canon
Route
Counts toward progress
Episode breakdown
Main manga-canon introduction to Team 7.
Mixed-canon bridge episode. Must watch.
Main manga-canon continuation.
Mixed-canon bridge episode. Must watch.
Main manga-canon continuation.
Mixed-canon stretch. Must watch.
Main manga-canon episode.
Mixed-canon ending stretch. Must watch.
Story checkpoint
Finish the arc to open this checkpoint
Mark complete to save your progress, move Naruto forward, and open the arc discussion prompts.
Next canon arc
Chunin Exams