Introduction
Hunter X Hunter (1999) is the first anime adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi’s critically acclaimed manga. Produced by Nippon Animation and directed by Kazuhiro Furuhashi, this version aired from October 1999 to March 2001. It follows the adventures of Gon Freecss, a young boy striving to become a Hunter and find his missing father, Ging. Alongside his friends Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio, Gon faces numerous challenges, dangerous opponents, and intricate storylines filled with mystery and emotion.
Compared to the 2011 adaptation, the hunter x hunter 1999 version covers fewer arcs, stopping before the Chimera Ant saga, but it contains a higher proportion of filler episodes. The filler content in this version was often used to extend the anime’s run and fill gaps while the manga was ongoing. This guide will help you navigate which episodes are filler and which are canon so you can enjoy the main story without unnecessary detours.
What is Filler and Canon in Anime?
Canon Episode (Watch) : In anime, canon episodes are those that follow the original storyline from the manga or light novel — they are directly adapted from the source material and are essential to the main plot.
Filler Episode (Skip) : These episodes are anime-original content that does not appear in the manga. These episodes are often created to give the manga time to progress ahead of the anime, and while some fillers offer fun side stories or extra character moments, others can feel disconnected from the main narrative. Knowing which episodes are canon and which are filler helps viewers decide whether to watch everything or skip directly to the core storyline.
Hunter x Hunter (1999) Stats
- Total Episodes: 92 (this includes 62-episode related to manga and 30 OVA episodes)
- First Air Date: October 16, 1999
- Last Air Date: August 18, 2004
- Filler Episodes: 2, 7, 18-20
Filler Episode Guide
Helpful Tips for Watching
The 1999 version of hunter x hunter is known for its faithful adaptation and minimal filler content, so even the so-called “filler” episodes often blend seamlessly with the main story. If you’re aiming for a pure manga experience, you can skip the few non-canon episodes without losing track of the plot. However, these fillers often add extra depth to character relationships and give more screen time to fan-favorite moments, so completionists and first-time viewers may still find them worth watching.
Conclusion
The 1999 Hunter x Hunter anime offers a nostalgic journey through the early adventures of Gon and his friends. While it has a significant amount of filler content—about a third of the episodes—this was typical for anime adaptations during that era, created to extend the series while the manga was still ongoing. For fans wanting a smooth and concise viewing experience focused on the manga storyline, skipping the filler episodes listed above is recommended. Nevertheless, some filler episodes provide additional character development and fun side stories that some viewers might enjoy.
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