Best Anime Filler Episodes Of All Time: Top 10 Ranked Classics

The word “filler” often triggers an eye-roll among anime fans, typically referring to non-manga canon episodes designed to put the brakes on the main plot and give the source material time to advance. However, the term sometimes unfairly labels episodes that are not only worthwhile but are genuine masterpieces—heartfelt, hilarious, or even emotionally resonant enough to stand proudly alongside the series’ main arcs. These rare entries prove that some “unnecessary” episodes leave a lasting, positive legacy on their franchises, cementing their place among the Best anime filler episodes of all time.

From epic, standalone adventures to character-focused comedic detours, these anime filler episodes worth watching serve a vital role. They demonstrate character nuance, explore uncharted corners of the story’s world, or simply offer a necessary, high-quality break from relentless tension. They are a testament to the fact that when production studios are given creative freedom, the best filler episodes in anime can elevate their series in surprising and unforgettable ways, making audiences cry, laugh, or simply fall in love with the characters all over again.

The Definitive Top Anime Filler Episodes

10. Inuyasha: “Don’t Boil It! The Terrifying Dried-Up Demon!” (Episode 127)

Inuyasha’s filler often leaned into the absurd, and Episode 127 is a shining example. The episode follows the gang fighting a ridiculous yokai made of dried gourds and leftover food. Though the premise is silly, the episode perfectly captures the spirit of Inuyasha: the folkloric humor, the warm group dynamic, the clash between Kagome’s modern sensibilities and ancient superstition, and Inuyasha’s chaotic solutions.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Endearing Chaos: A seamless blend of slapstick comedy and the group’s natural chemistry.
  • Folkloric Humor: Uses ancient superstition and mundane problems for high comedic effect.
  • Perfect Pause: A mid-series breather that reinforces the established character relationships.

9. My Hero Academia: “Everyone’s Internships” (Episode 39)

Set between high-stakes arcs, “Everyone’s Internships” could have been a dry recap. Instead, it became one of My Hero Academia‘s most emotionally authentic detours. It intentionally shifts focus from Midoriya’s intense training to explore the quiet hardships, introspection, and day-to-day vulnerability of his classmates during their hero internships.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Character Depth: Gives fan-favorites like Uraraka and Tokoyami rare moments of quiet development.
  • Tonal Shift: The leisurely, slice-of-life ambiance stands out in a series built on grand battles.
  • Human Stakes: Reminds viewers that heroism is often about finding courage and growth in everyday, untelevised moments.

8. Dragon Ball Z: “Goku’s Ordeal” (Episode 125)

Few filler episodes are as universally beloved or as utterly absurd as Dragon Ball Z’s “Goku’s Ordeal.” In a rare break from cosmic threats, Chi-Chi forces Goku and Piccolo to attend driving school. The resulting episode is a ridiculous, yet strangely wholesome, competition between the two warriors as they struggle with the most mundane of human tasks: parallel parking.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Absurdist Comedy: The complete tonal shift creates massive, highly meme-able comedic relief.
  • Character Nuance: Reveals the surprisingly human and utterly alien sides of Goku and Piccolo outside of battle.
  • Wholesome Break: A necessary, high-quality pause between the destructive Android and Cell Sagas.

7. Noragami: The Rabo Arc (Episodes 10-13)

The Rabo Arc is a remarkable feat of original storytelling that seamlessly integrates with the canon plot. Rabo, the forgotten god of disaster, was created solely for the anime but became so central to Yato’s internal conflict that fans often mistake him for a manga character. The arc effectively delves into Yato’s violent past, his fear of being forgotten, and his struggle for redemption.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Seamless Integration: The non-canon story perfectly enriches the emotional tone of the main series.
  • Internal Conflict: Forces Yato to confront his darkest, forgotten self, adding significant depth to his character.
  • Atmospheric Climax: The eerie visuals and melancholy music make Rabo’s confrontation a highlight of the season.

6. Gintama: “Two People Are Better Than One” (Episode 166)

Gintama famously turns filler into gold, and this episode is a masterpiece of the genre. While fighting, Gintoki and Hijikata accidentally cuff themselves together for the day. The comedy effortlessly transitions from pure slapstick—their struggle to use the bathroom being a famous gag—to a surprisingly sincere characterization of begrudging respect and reluctant friendship.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Perfect Blend: Masters the series’ trademark mix of ridiculous, chaotic humor and genuine emotional complexity.
  • High Stakes Comedy: The absurd premise is mined for endless laughs and subtle character bonding.
  • Snapshot of Appeal: A perfect encapsulation of Gintama‘s core dynamic and unique comedic voice.

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5. Fullmetal Alchemist: “The Mystery of Warehouse 13” (Episode 13)

Fullmetal Alchemist rarely slows down, which is why its best filler episodes in anime are so effective. This episode, split into two comic halves, provides a perfect, well-earned comic breather. The first half features 2nd Lt. Jean Havoc’s hilarious investigation into Roy Mustang’s dating life; the second involves Roy’s team investigating a “haunted” warehouse.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Earned Humor: Delivers pure enjoyment without ever cheapening the characters’ dignity or seriousness.
  • Character Dynamics: The clever, sweet moments reinforce the deep, loyal connection between Mustang and his subordinates.
  • Comic Relief: A necessary pause that reminds fans the battle-tested alchemists have lives outside of the main, dark conflict.

4. Bleach: The Zanpakuto Rebellion Arc (Episodes 230–266)

Bleach is infamous for its lengthy filler, but the “Zanpakuto Rebellion” arc stands head and shoulders above the rest, making it one of the must-watch anime filler episodes (or arcs). It utilizes its freedom to explore one of the series’ most engaging concepts: what if every Soul Reaper’s unique weapon gained a physical form and rebelled against its master?

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Creative Worldbuilding: Transforms abstract powers into fully realized characters with unique personalities.
  • Visual Loyalty: The new characters and action sequences remain stylistically true to Tite Kubo’s original art.
  • High Stakes: Forces Shinigami like Ichigo and Rukia to confront and understand their own powers on a deeply personal level.

3. Naruto: “Gotta See! Gotta Know! Kakashi-Sensei’s True Face!” (Episode 101)

For an anime built on high-stakes ninja warfare, few episodes have brought fans more collective joy than this one. This episode follows Team 7 on their ultimate side quest: discovering what lies beneath Kakashi’s ever-present mask. From elaborate disguises to failed traps, Team 7’s desperate attempts lead to a string of iconic, hilarious scenarios.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Iconic Status: Remains one of the most referenced and beloved episodes in the franchise’s history.
  • Pure Comedy Gold: The simple, brilliant setup generates non-stop, earned humor.
  • Character Insight: The mystery symbolizes Kakashi’s distance, giving a subtle glimpse into how much his students care for him.

2. One Piece: The G-8 Arc (Episodes 196–206)

The G-8 Arc is the gold standard for best anime filler episodes of all time. Taking place immediately after the exhausting Sky Island Arc, this mini-arc maroons the Straw Hat Pirates in a highly fortified Marine base. The arc succeeds not through massive battles, but through tight characterization, quick dialogue, and the strategic battle of wits against the intelligent, honorable Commander Jonathan.

• Key Features/Benefits:
  • Essential Feeling: The pacing and robust animation make the filler feel critical to the overarching journey.
  • Perfect Characterization: Every Straw Hat member gets their moment in the spotlight, executed flawlessly.
  • Gold Standard: A masterful example of integrating an independent adventure into the world without sacrificing canon integrity.

1. Attack on Titan: “Ilse’s Notebook” (OVA 1)

Attack on Titan‘s most memorable OVA is the rare non-canon content that transcends the filler label entirely and became canon in spirit. It tells the haunting story of Ilse Langnar, a lone Scout Regiment soldier who records her final moments after encountering a talking Titan. Ilse’s journal later becomes a vital catalyst for Hange’s research and humanity’s understanding of the enemy.

• Key Features/Benefits:

  • Thematic Depth: Expands the emotional core of the series by humanizing the endless struggle and sacrifice.
  • Chilling Tone: Captured with the chilling precision of a psychological horror short rather than a traditional action episode.

  • Canon Integration: The discovery of the notebook by Hange directly influenced her character arc, cementing its lasting importance.

Ultimately, the term “filler” should not be seen as a mark of shame, but rather as an opportunity for creative freedom. The episodes listed here demonstrate that when writing and production teams are given space outside the main manga narrative, they can produce some of the most memorable, funny, and even emotionally profound content in a series. These standalone masterpieces allow characters to breathe, worlds to expand, and audiences to take a necessary, high-quality break from high-stakes drama. By pushing boundaries and focusing on pure character joy, these select titles have rightfully earned their place among the Best anime filler episodes of all time.