Bleach is one of the greatest and most legendary anime of all time. Known for its interesting storyline, intense action, and well-timed comedy, it consistently earns a spot on top-tier anime lists around the world. However, for new viewers, one common challenge is figuring out where to begin and how to watch the series in the correct order to fully experience the story without missing any crucial plot developments.
To help you in this article, we are going to cover the perfect watch order, highlight which filler episodes you can skip, and provide everything you need to know before diving into this legendary series.
Bleach Anime: Main Series Watch Order
The Bleach anime is divided into several arcs, some of which are adaptations of the manga, while others are filler arcs exclusive to the anime. Here’s the recommended watch order:
- Season 1: The Substitute Soul Reaper (Episodes 1–20)
- Season 2: The Entry (Episodes 21–41)
- Season 3: The Rescue (Episodes 42–63)
- Season 4: The Bount (Episodes 64–91) (Filler Arc)
- Season 5: The Assault (Episodes 92–109) (Filler Arc)
- Season 6: Arrancar: The Arrival (Episodes 110–131)
- Season 7: Arrancar: The Hueco Mundo Sneak Entry (Episodes 132–151)
- Season 8: Arrancar: The Fierce Fight (Episodes 152–167)
- Season 9: The New Captain Shūsuke Amagai (Episodes 168–189) (Filler Arc)
- Season 10: Arrancar vs. Soul Reaper (Episodes 190–205)
- Season 11: The Past (Episodes 206–212)
- Season 12: Arrancar: Decisive Battle of Karakura (Episodes 213–229)
- Season 13: Zanpakutō: The Alternate Tale (Episodes 230–265) (Filler Arc)
- Season 14: Arrancar: Downfall (Episodes 266–316)
- Season 15: Gotei 13 Invading Army (Episodes 317–342) (Filler Arc)
- Season 16: The Lost Agent (Episodes 343–366)
Bleach Movies: When to Watch
The Bleach franchise includes four movies. While they are generally considered non-canonical, they can be enjoyed alongside the series. Here’s when to watch them:
- Bleach: Memories of Nobody – After Episode 63 or 109, depending on whether you watch the filler arcs.
- Bleach: The DiamondDust Rebellion—After Episode 127.
- Bleach: Fade to Black – After Episode 127.
- Bleach: Hell Verse—After Episode 310 or 316, depending on filler arc inclusion.
Filler Episodes: To Watch or Skip?
Bleach includes several filler episodes and arcs that deviate from the main manga storyline. If you’re interested in the core plot, you might consider skipping the following:
- Episodes 33, 50, 64–109, 128–137, 147–149, 168–189, 204–205, 213–214, 228–266, 287, 298–299, 303–305, 311–341, 355
However, some filler arcs offer enjoyable side stories and character development, so choose based on your viewing preferences.
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War (2022–Present)
Following a decade-long break, Bleach returned with the Thousand-Year Blood War storyline, which adapted the manga’s final chapters. This sequel series consists of four parts:
- Part 1: The Blood Warfare (Episodes 1–13)—Aired from October to December 2022.
- Part 2: The Separation (Episodes 14–26)—Aired from July to September 2023.
- Part 3: The Conflict (Episodes 27–40)—Aired from October to December 2024.
- Part 4: The Calamity – Announced after Part 3’s finale; release date to be confirmed.
