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Songs of Studio Ghibli: List of Theme Songs, Insert Songs, and BGM from Ghibli Music

Studio Ghibli films, enjoyed by both adults and children, are also famous for their wonderful music.

Every work features songs that perfectly fit the story and leave an unforgettable impression after just one listen.

We’ve gathered not only the popular theme songs and insert songs from Studio Ghibli works, but also image songs that bring back memories of famous scenes and evocative moments.

If you want to listen to Ghibli’s masterpieces or hear again the song that played in that one scene, be sure to check these out!

Heisei Tanuki War Ponpoko (1–10)

Elegy (Heisei Tanuki War Ponpoko)

"Lament" from "Pom Poko" performed by ocha
Elegy (Heisei Tanuki War Ponpoko)

In this film, created by the duo of directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, the depiction of death is striking—and cruelly so.

When it comes to the relationship between humans and nature, and the compromises living beings must make, the story brings forth a great deal of sorrow and hatred.

Amid all this, the piece titled “Elegy” may well be the track that most symbolizes the work.

In this city in AsiaJōjō Taihūn

[Karaoke] In This Asian Town / Shang Shang Typhoon
In this city in AsiaJōjō Taihūn

A song that warmly depicts scenes of Asian streets and the people who live there, brimming with the charm of Shang Shang Typhoon.

The lyrics, imbued with a wish to turn tears into stars and sad lies into light, resonate deeply.

Released as a single in 1994, it was also included on the album “Around Asia in 80 Days.” It’s also known as the theme song for Toho’s animated film “Pom Poko.” This track empathizes with those who leave their hometowns to start anew elsewhere—recommended for people striving in a foreign land or those who have decided to set off on a journey.

The Wind Rises (11–20)

The timeless hit by Yumi (Yuming) that the producer wanted to use!

Opinions among fans are divided, but it’s a work with a brilliant connection to its music. The theme song is Yumi Matsutoya’s “Hikoukigumo,” which producer Toshio Suzuki personally requested to use. There are many other wonderful tracks as well, so if you haven’t heard them yet, please do! Related article:The Wind Rises songs: theme song and insert songs

The Wind Rises (1–10)

Only onceWerunā Rihyaruto Haiman

The Congress Dances Das Gibt’s Nur Einmal
Only onceWerunā Rihyaruto Haiman

This song is also known as the theme for the German film The Congress Dances, released in 1931.

In the film, it is used in a cheerful scene where people gathered at a hotel suddenly break into song.

Its composer, Werner Richard Heymann, was a renowned German composer.

contrailArai Yumi

Contrail (Vapour Trail) – Yumi Arai (Yumi Matsutoya)
contrailArai Yumi

The theme song of The Wind Rises.

Since they had already decided on this song during production, its match with the film’s world and atmosphere is flawless.

Although the movie stirred up various controversies among fans, I personally feel that while Porco Rosso included elements that even children could enjoy, The Wind Rises is a film that pursues “a man’s romance” or masculine ideals.

You can sense Hayao Miyazaki’s philosophy of men and life through this work.

Journey (Dream Flight)Hisaishi Joe

The Wind Rises / Journey (Dream Flight)
Journey (Dream Flight)Hisaishi Joe

It’s a song that evokes the strength of those who pursue their dreams and the emotional scars that come from facing them, as well as the resilience and fragility of people who still choose to stand and fight.

The arrangement, with its subtly analog feel—as if the propeller were being turned by hand—further accentuates the historical setting of The Wind Rises.

JunkersHisaishi Joe

Junkers (Piano) ~ from the film 'The Wind Rises' ~
JunkersHisaishi Joe

This is the piece “Junkers,” which was used in the film The Wind Rises.

Its title comes from the German aircraft manufacturer Junkers that appears in the story.

Behind the backdrop of war lay the passion of the aviation companies.

You can strongly feel Germany’s pride and resolute bearing in this music.

It’s also a track that hints at the wavering relationships between nations brought on by the war.

Journey (Winds of Italy)Hisaishi Joe

Journey (Italian Breeze) Piano Performance — from the film “The Wind Rises”
Journey (Winds of Italy)Hisaishi Joe

Do you have someone you call a benefactor? You can never thank a benefactor enough, can you? This soundtrack takes that very theme.

Its slow, calm tempo that exudes respect and the mellow tone of the organ evoke a sense of reverence for one’s benefactor.

It’s a recommended track full of dignity and warmth.