Pain Arc Start Episode

While the actual invasion of Konoha begins slightly later, Episode 152 serves as the narrative catalyst where the leaf village begins preparing for the inevitable clash after receiving devastating news regarding Jiraiya.

Every legendary anime arc needs a beginning that doesn’t just introduce conflict, but shatters the status quo. The “Pain Arc Start Episode” — typically episode 152 of Naruto Shippuden (“Somber News”) or the immediate lead-up — masterfully executes this. pain arc start episode