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. Theme and insert songs (21–30)
Red riverbedTeshima Aoi
One of the songs included in Kokuriko-zaka kara Kashu is Aoi Teshima’s “Akai Mizusoko” (Red Waterbed).
This song is about Umi’s father, a sailor whose ship met with disaster and went missing.
It conveys a mix of complex emotions—grief over the loss of a loved one who will never return and anger toward the war that caused it.
The lyrics depicting her final memories of her father are especially moving—they bring uncontrollable tears.
rainTeshima Aoi
This is “Rain,” Aoi Teshima’s song included in the From Up on Poppy Hill song collection.
Both the lyrics and the melody evoke a profound sadness.
It brings to mind the scene in the film where Umi and Kazama stand in a daze after learning they’re actually brother and sister.
“Rain” feels like a cry—or perhaps a plea—from Umi, crushed by an inescapable reality.
Listening to it is quite heartbreaking.
Songs from From Up on Poppy Hill. Main theme and insert songs (31–40)
When White Flowers Bloom (Chorus)Takebe Satoshi
At the debate about the future of the Quartier Latin, Mizunuma stepped onto the stage and suddenly began singing this song, “When the White Flowers Bloom.” This is a real popular song that became widespread in the early Showa era—the period in which From Up on Poppy Hill is set—sung by Atsurō Okamoto.
Those of the same generation may remember it well.
If you’ve seen the film, it likely left a strong impression on you too.
In conclusion
How did you like the theme song and insert songs from From Up on Poppy Hill? The film’s theme song is performed by Aoi Teshima, who drew attention for her work on Tales from Earthsea.
Her pure voice was a perfect match for this Studio Ghibli film.
If the music helped you feel the world of From Up on Poppy Hill, be sure to watch the movie next.
Even greater emotions are surely waiting for you.