Shikamaru's Decision
Episode 397 · Naruto Shippuden
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Filler or Canon?
No — Naruto Shippuden Episode 397 is filler. It's anime-original and has no impact on the main story. Safe to skip if you only want canon. A Shikamaru-spotlight filler beat — the strategist's judgment in the exams; character work, non-canon and self-contained.NEXT CANON → SHP EP 414 · On the Brink of Death
Series
Naruto Shippuden
Episode
397 / 500
Status
Filler
Arc
2nd Chunin Exams
2ND CHUNIN EXAMS · EP 394–413 · 20 EPISODESYOU ARE HERE · 4 OF 20
Episode Summary
Shikamaru's decision gives the strategist a filler spotlight within the Chunin Exams arc, his judgment shaping the tournament. The episode foregrounds Shikamaru — now an examiner or mentor figure — his decision echoing the leadership the war demanded of him. Sealed inside its filler frame, it deepens a beloved character without canon stakes. Competent and character-focused, Shikamaru's decision is engaging in its bubble and outside the timeline, a diversion giving the tactician a tournament-era spotlight.
Frequently Asked
What arc is it in?
It's part of the 2nd Chunin Exams arc.
Can I skip it?
Yes, you can safely skip it without missing main story.
2nd Chunin Exams · Ep 394–413 · 20 episodes
394The New Chunin ExamsFiller395The Chunin Exams BeginFiller396The Three ChallengesFiller
397Shikamaru's DecisionFiller
398The Night Before the Second ExamFiller399Survival BeginsFiller400Taijutsu UserFiller401The UltimateFiller402Escape vs. PursuitFiller403Unwavering GutsFiller404Tenten's TroublesFiller405The Two TrappedFiller406My Own PlaceFiller407The Yamanaka Clan: Secret NinjutsuFiller408A Cursed PuppetFiller409The Two Their BacksFiller410The Hidden PlotFiller411The Targeted Tailed BeastFiller412Neji's JudgmentFiller413Hopes Entrusted to the FutureFiller720 episodes — canon, mixed, filler and best animation moments.
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