Where Can I Watch “Naruto Shippuden” on Netflix? Your Ultimate Guide

“Naruto Shippuden” is a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its compelling characters, intricate storylines, and breathtaking action sequences. If you’re eager to dive into the world of Naruto Uzumaki on Netflix, here’s the short answer: “Naruto Shippuden” is not universally available on Netflix. Its availability depends on your geographical location. Currently, Netflix regions in countries like Japan, India, and South Korea often feature “Naruto Shippuden” in their libraries. However, it’s notably absent from libraries in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

The Elusive Availability of “Naruto Shippuden” on Netflix

Why the inconsistency? It boils down to licensing agreements. Netflix acquires distribution rights for specific regions, meaning the anime shows available vary from country to country. The rights to “Naruto Shippuden,” in particular, are held by different distributors in different areas. This means that while one country might have a deal for Netflix to stream it, another might not, leaving fans in some regions unable to access it.

This can be frustrating for international fans, especially those who primarily use Netflix for their anime fix. However, understanding the licensing landscape provides some context to the situation.

Why Does Netflix Geo-Restrict Content?

Netflix operates under a complex web of licensing agreements. These agreements dictate which shows and movies can be streamed in specific regions. These agreements exist due to copyright laws, distribution deals, and contractual obligations with production companies. Therefore, you might find that a show you love is available on Netflix in one country but completely unavailable in another.

Alternative Ways to Watch “Naruto Shippuden”

If “Naruto Shippuden” isn’t on Netflix in your region, don’t despair! Several other platforms offer the series for streaming or purchase.

Crunchyroll: The Anime Powerhouse

Crunchyroll is arguably the best alternative for “Naruto Shippuden.” It’s a streaming service dedicated to anime, boasting a vast library that includes “Naruto Shippuden,” “Naruto,” “Boruto: Naruto Next Generations,” and a huge array of other popular and niche anime titles. It offers both subtitled and dubbed versions, providing flexibility for different viewers. A subscription typically unlocks access to ad-free streaming and new episodes shortly after they air in Japan.

Hulu: A General Streaming Option

Hulu is another viable option, especially if you already have a subscription. Hulu’s anime selection is respectable, and “Naruto Shippuden” is often included in their offerings. Like Crunchyroll, Hulu provides both subbed and dubbed versions, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Viz Media: Official Digital Store

Viz Media, the official North American distributor of “Naruto,” offers digital downloads of the series through its online store. This is a great way to own the series legally and support the creators. While it involves a purchase rather than a subscription, it gives you permanent access to the episodes you buy.

Buying Physical Copies: The Classic Approach

The old-fashioned way: buy the DVDs or Blu-rays of “Naruto Shippuden”. This ensures you can watch the show whenever you want, regardless of streaming rights or internet connectivity. It also allows you to own a physical collection, which is appealing to many dedicated fans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions, fully answered, to help you understand where to watch “Naruto Shippuden.”

1. Is “Naruto Shippuden” available on Netflix worldwide? No, “Naruto Shippuden” is not available on Netflix worldwide. Availability varies by region due to licensing agreements. You’ll typically find it on Netflix in countries like Japan, India, and South Korea, but not in regions like the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia.

2. Why is “Naruto Shippuden” available on Netflix in some countries but not others? This is due to regional licensing agreements. Netflix must acquire the rights to stream content in specific territories. These rights are often held by different distributors in different regions, resulting in varying availability.

3. Can I use a VPN to watch “Naruto Shippuden” on Netflix in a country where it’s available? While using a VPN to access different Netflix regions might seem like a solution, it’s against Netflix’s terms of service. Netflix actively detects and blocks VPN usage, and you risk having your account suspended or terminated.

4. What are the best alternatives to Netflix for watching “Naruto Shippuden”? The best alternatives are Crunchyroll and Hulu. Crunchyroll is dedicated to anime and usually has “Naruto Shippuden,” while Hulu also features it alongside its broader streaming library.

5. Does Crunchyroll have both subbed and dubbed versions of “Naruto Shippuden”? Yes, Crunchyroll typically offers both subtitled and dubbed versions of “Naruto Shippuden,” giving you a choice based on your viewing preference.

6. Is it legal to watch “Naruto Shippuden” on unofficial streaming sites? No, watching “Naruto Shippuden” or any copyrighted content on unofficial streaming sites is illegal. These sites often host content without proper licensing, which infringes on copyright laws. Furthermore, these sites can be riddled with malware and viruses.

7. How often does Netflix update its anime library? Netflix updates its anime library regularly, adding new titles and sometimes removing older ones due to licensing changes. Keep an eye on Netflix’s “Coming Soon” and “Last Chance to Watch” sections.

8. Can I download “Naruto Shippuden” episodes from Netflix for offline viewing? If “Naruto Shippuden” is available on Netflix in your region, you can typically download episodes for offline viewing using the Netflix app on your mobile device or tablet.

9. Does Amazon Prime Video offer “Naruto Shippuden”? The availability of “Naruto Shippuden” on Amazon Prime Video also depends on your region. It might be available for purchase or as part of a subscription in some countries. Check your local Amazon Prime Video library to see if it’s offered.

10. How can I find out if “Naruto Shippuden” is available on Netflix in my country? The easiest way is to search for “Naruto Shippuden” directly on Netflix in your region. If it appears in the search results, it’s available for streaming. You can also use third-party websites that track Netflix content by region.

11. Are there any legal ways to watch “Naruto Shippuden” for free? Occasionally, Crunchyroll offers a free tier with ads, where you can watch some episodes of “Naruto Shippuden.” However, to watch all episodes ad-free, you’ll need a subscription. There are also sometimes free trials available for streaming services like Crunchyroll or Hulu.

12. Will “Naruto Shippuden” ever become available on Netflix in my region? Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that “Naruto Shippuden” will become available on Netflix in your region. Licensing agreements are constantly changing, so it’s possible, but it’s best to rely on other streaming options or consider purchasing the series digitally or physically.