Naruto Episode 20: A New Chapter Begins: The Chūnin Exam!

June 22, 2026 · Anime, Episodes, Naruto

Spoiler note: This episode guide discusses the events of this episode. Major future-series spoilers should be avoided unless clearly marked.

Quick Facts

Episode: Naruto Episode 20
Title: A New Chapter Begins: The Chūnin Exam!
Arc: Chunin Exams Arc
Canon/Filler Status: Canon / mostly manga-canon
Original Japanese Air Date: February 20, 2003
Previous Episode: Naruto Episode 19
Next Episode: Naruto Episode 21

Naruto Episode 20 Summary

Naruto Episode 20, “A New Chapter Begins: The Chunin Exam!,” follows the episode’s central events with a clearer focus on what actually happens on screen. With their latest mission complete, it's time once again for the group to go back to mediocre missions. After all are done, Konohamaru and his friends pay a visit to Naruto. All which result in being chased by Sakura. Everyone is soon over though, as two mysterious ninja block their way, and one of them isn't too happy with Konohamaru. Sasuke arrives to save the day, but the leader of the group shows up, with stealth skills that surprise even Sasuke. Meanwhile, the Third Hokage announces that it's time once again for the Chuunin selection exams.

Detailed Episode Discussion

The episode’s main movement is built around this setup: With their latest mission complete, it's time once again for the group to go back to mediocre missions. After all are done, Konohamaru and his friends pay a visit to Naruto. All which result in being chased by Sakura. Everyone is soon over though, as two mysterious ninja block their way, and one of them isn't too happy with Konohamaru. Sasuke arrives to save the day, but the leader of the group shows up, with stealth skills that surprise even Sasuke. Meanwhile, the Third Hokage announces that it's time once again for the Chuunin selection exams. PopRot readers should watch how the characters respond to the pressure of the moment, because the choices made here are what connect the episode to the larger Naruto storyline.

In practical watch-order terms, “A New Chapter Begins: The Chunin Exam!” is not just a title card in the episode list. It marks the specific conflict, reveal, confrontation, joke, rescue, or turning point that the episode wants viewers to remember. The important details to track are who takes action, who gets challenged, and what new information changes the audience’s understanding of the arc.

This recap is written to help fans place Naruto Episode 20 in context without losing the thread of the larger story. If you are moving through Naruto in order, treat this episode as a checkpoint for the current arc’s momentum, character relationships, and next-step setup.

Watch or Skip?

Watch. This episode is part of the core Naruto viewing path and helps move the main story forward.

Where to Watch Naruto Episode 20 Online

Streaming availability changes by country and over time. PopRot links only to official/legal watch options. When an exact episode page is available, use that; otherwise start from the official Naruto series/search page on each service.