When "Naruto Shippuden" returns to the small screen with episode 480, fans will be treated to a look at the most popular and esteemed shinobi's childhood.
"Naruto Shippuden" episode 480 will start in on a whole new story arc for the anime. It will be called the "Boyhood Arc" and will explore what Naruto was before he became the dogged ninja that he now is.
The episode will specifically delve into the time when the Nine-Tails was still sealed within young Naruto. The synopsis for the installment, which was revealed beforehand, reads: "Naruto is the host of the Kyuubi. He trains all alone in the forest. During his training, a special someone appears."
"Naruto Shippuden" episode 480 will actually be divided into two parts, the first one focuses on Naruto, while the second part will be about Hinata.
Since this episode will introduce a brand new story arc, the anime will also have new opening and ending songs to go with the new chapter of the tale.
Fans will hear "Kara no Kokoro" by Anly when the episode begins while the idol group Ayumikurikamaki will accompany fans to the end of the episode with "Tabidachi no Uta (Departure Song)."
The episodes following "Naruto Shippuden" episode 480 will tell side stories featuring other characters. Airing Oct. 27, episode 481 will focus on Sasuke and Sakura.
Episode 482 will put Gaara and Shikamaru front and center, while Jiraiya and Kakashi's stories will be told in episode 483. It is unclear if these episodes will be childhood arcs as well.
By winter, "Naruto Shippuden" will adapt stories that took place after the Great Ninja War, starting with "Shikamaru's Story," as well as the "Sunrise" novels featuring Sasuke and the stories about the Hidden Leaf Village.
"Naruto Shippuden" episode 480 is scheduled to air on Thursday, Oct. 20 on TV Tokyo.
