Naruto Episode 68: Zero Hour! The Destruction of Leaf Begins!

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 68
Title: Zero Hour! The Destruction of Leaf Begins!
Arc: Konoha Crush Arc
Canon/Filler Status: Canon / mostly manga-canon
Original Japanese Air Date: January 28, 2004
Previous Episode: Naruto Episode 67
Next Episode: Naruto Episode 69

Naruto Episode 68 Summary

Naruto Episode 68, “Zero Hour! The Destruction of the Hidden Leaf Village Begins!,” follows the episode’s central events with a clearer focus on what actually happens on screen. As Chouji faces off against Dosu, Orochimaru gives an order for Kabuto to abduct Sasuke. He also tells Kabuto that if he wants to stop him, he'll have to kill Sasuke. As Kabuto approaches Sasuke, he hesitates on what to do. His spy cover is soon blown though, as Kakashi appears on the scene. Will Kakashi save Sasuke from Kabuto's grasp?

Detailed Episode Discussion

The episode’s main movement is built around this setup: As Chouji faces off against Dosu, Orochimaru gives an order for Kabuto to abduct Sasuke. He also tells Kabuto that if he wants to stop him, he'll have to kill Sasuke. As Kabuto approaches Sasuke, he hesitates on what to do. His spy cover is soon blown though, as Kakashi appears on the scene. Will Kakashi save Sasuke from Kabuto's grasp? 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, “Zero Hour! The Destruction of the Hidden Leaf Village Begins!” 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 68 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 68 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.