Songs from From Up on Poppy Hill. Theme song and insert songs.
From Up on Poppy Hill, released in 2011, was directed by Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Gorō Miyazaki.
It’s a coming-of-age story set in Showa-era Japan, imbued with a sense of romance and retro charm.
While its historical backdrop gives you a lot to ponder, the film has an easygoing feel that lets you savor that era of Japan with both your eyes and ears.
In this article, I’ve put together the main theme and insert songs from From Up on Poppy Hill.
By all means, don’t just listen to the songs—watch the film itself as well.
You’ll enjoy the music in this article even more that way.
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Songs from From Up on Poppy Hill. Main theme and insert songs (11–20)
Run toward tomorrowTakebe Satoshi
Here’s an energetic track that charges toward tomorrow with strong determination.
The powerful piano, delivered with a bold touch, and the rapid, driving melody make a striking impact.
Be sure to check out the piano’s surge and the dynamic range of the sound as it builds toward the finale.
It’s a song I’d love anyone striving wholeheartedly toward a goal to hear!
Morning commute route to schoolTakebe Satoshi
Here’s a heartwarming, top-recommended song.
In From Up on Poppy Hill, the protagonists’ pasts are a very important element, and this track centers on those precious memories.
It’s a laid-back piano ballad overall.
Toward the end, high-pitched chords ring out slowly, and they’re truly beautiful.
Don’t you feel like the more you listen, the more it brings back lovely memories?
recollectionTakebe Satoshi
This one is recommended for those who want to listen to something relaxing and soothing.
The flowing, calm melody makes you feel more at peace the more you listen.
It’s a slow-tempo ballad, but the melody has plenty of notes packed in at times, so you won’t get bored and can enjoy it to the end.
Another highlight is that it’s not a monotonous ballad!
dreamTakebe Satoshi
If you’re looking for a song packed tightly with a sense of aching poignancy, I recommend “Yume” (“Dream”).
As the title suggests, it’s an exquisitely fleeting piece.
The slow tempo and sparse melody double down on its transience.
Don’t you feel the earnest wish to keep dreaming a phantom-like dream forever? Watch the film, and it’s sure to resonate even more deeply.
UnityTakebe Satoshi
When people come together, it takes a lot of energy, doesn’t it? This piece lets you feel that powerful energy intensely.
The first half features low tones resonating rhythmically, conveying a resolve to move forward with courage.
In the second half, it transforms into a gentle timbre that seems to embrace that strength.
It’s a very short piece, but it’s filled with many emotions.
ReminiscenceTakebe Satoshi
This one will put you in such a bubbly mood you’ll want to skip along.
The bouncy, intricate rhythms pair perfectly with the catchy pop melody! It’s extra fun on sunny days, and on rainy ones it’ll fill you with excitement—just that kind of track.
At the end, there’s a punchline-like melodic twist that feels like a short movie.
Be sure to listen all the way through.
Songs from From Up on Poppy Hill. Theme and insert songs (21–30)
PartyTakebe Satoshi
In From Up on Poppy Hill, a send-off party is held for Hokuto, who was boarding at the protagonist Umi’s house.
The song playing at that party is this one.
Sending someone off always brings a touch of sadness, doesn’t it? So despite being a party, a sense of loneliness lingers throughout.
It’s a mid-tempo track with a gently restrained rhythm that feels comforting.
What happens at this party is also very important, so be sure to check it out in the film.