The Akatsuki's Invasion
Episode 73 · Naruto Shippuden
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Filler or Canon?
Yes — Naruto Shippuden Episode 73 is canon. It adapts the original manga and is essential to the main story. Do not skip it. Team 10 versus the immortals — the arc setting up Asuma's cell against enemies who can't be killed conventionally, the dread before the loss.
Series
Naruto Shippuden
Episode
073 / 500
Status
Manga Canon
Arc
Hidan & Kakuzu
HIDAN & KAKUZU · EP 72–88 · 17 EPISODESYOU ARE HERE · 2 OF 17
Episode Summary
The Akatsuki's invasion brings Hidan and Kakuzu into Konoha's territory, and Team 10 — Asuma, Shikamaru, Ino, Choji — deploys to intercept. The episode sets the arc's pieces: the immortal Hidan's scythe and ritual, Kakuzu's threaded limbs and multiple hearts, against the Sarutobi-led cell that embodies the Will of Fire. Asuma's leadership and his bond with his students anchor the coming tragedy. The confrontation builds with dread, the arc making clear that these enemies don't die the way enemies are supposed to.
Frequently Asked
What arc is it in?
It's part of the Hidan & Kakuzu arc.
Can I skip it?
No, this is essential canon — do not skip it.
Hidan & Kakuzu · Ep 72–88 · 17 episodes
072The Quiet ThreatManga Canon
073The Akatsuki's InvasionManga Canon
074Under the Starry NightManga Canon075The Old Priest's PrayerManga Canon076The Next StepManga Canon077Silver ClimbingManga Canon078The JudgementManga Canon079Unfulfilled ScreamBManga Canon080Last WordsManga Canon081Sad NewsManga Canon082Team 10S+Manga Canon083Target LockedManga Canon084Kakuzu's AbilitiesManga Canon085A Terrifying SecretSManga Canon086Shikamaru's GeniusManga Canon087When You Curse Someone, You Dig Your Own GraveManga Canon088Wind Style: Rasen Shuriken!Manga Canon720 episodes — canon, mixed, filler and best animation moments.
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