Ranking of Popular Ghibli Songs [2026]

Nausicaä of the Valley of the WindYasuda Narumi29rank/position

[HD] Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind – Narumi Yasuda

Known as Narumi Yasuda’s debut single, this song was adopted as the symbolic theme song for Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, which is considered a masterpiece among Ghibli films.

Although it wasn’t used in the movie itself due to feeling a bit different from the actual animation, the song was frequently played in various contexts.

The moment when the major-key song suddenly shifts to minor during the chorus is particularly striking.

Composed by Haruomi Hosono with lyrics by Takashi Matsumoto.

Many people probably feel like they’d like to try singing it.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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againHisaishi Joe30rank/position

Again – from Studio Ghibli’s film “Spirited Away” – Piano – Level ★★★☆☆ – Beginner to Intermediate

It’s a grand and beautiful piece that plays during the climactic, dreamlike flying scene in the film Spirited Away.

Beginning with a quiet melody and gradually building in emotion, it evokes the hope that lies beyond hardship and the strong bonds with those we hold dear.

A later version with lyrics also exists, expressing a bittersweet yet warm longing for reunion.

This piece was included on the album Spirited Away Soundtrack, released in July 2001.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to bring this sweeping world to life with their own hands.

As you recall the story’s moving moments, aim for a performance that richly shapes dynamics and stirs the hearts of listeners.

Sometimes, old storiesKatō Tokiko31rank/position

Sometimes Old Stories - Tokiko Kato - Porco Rosso

This work is characterized by a warm tone that gently evokes memories of youth.

The lyrics, woven with both wistfulness and nostalgia, are said to reflect Tokiko Kato’s own experiences in vivid detail.

After its release in February 1987 on the album “MY STORY/Tokini wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo,” it was later chosen as the ending theme for Hayao Miyazaki’s 1992 film Porco Rosso, leaving a lasting impression on many.

With a simple yet powerful folk-song melody, it’s perfect for introducing friends at weddings or for scenes that look back on memories with someone dear.

Embracing listeners’ hearts and resonating with them, this song has continued to be loved across generations.

CatbusHisaishi Joe32rank/position

My Neighbor Totoro Orchestra Stories – 07. Cat Bus

“Catbus” from Orchestra Stories: My Neighbor Totoro—a suite that reorganizes the beloved music of My Neighbor Totoro into an orchestral work with narration.

This piece selects seven numbers from the film’s score and is arranged by Joe Hisaishi himself as an orchestral work with narration that parents and children can enjoy together.

It opens with playful phrases in the cellos and double basses, and the horn-like dissonances in the woodwinds and brass make the Catbus’s entrance all the more striking.

It’s a cheerful piece that’s perfect as an encore for a pops orchestra, and hearing My Neighbor Totoro performed by a live orchestra is truly moving!

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sai-kisaragi

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Ashitaka and SanHisaishi Joe33rank/position

Ashitaka and San (Piano · Easy Arrangement for Beginners) Princess Mononoke ashitakatosan/mononokehime

A classic piece by Joe Hisaishi, one of Japan’s most renowned composers, serves as an insert song in the film Princess Mononoke.

Released in July 1997, the film features Hisaishi’s delicate melodies that portray the relationship between nature and humanity.

Beginning with a gentle piano and gradually unfolding into a grand orchestral arrangement, the piece vividly expresses the film’s themes of coexistence with nature and human conflict through music.

Its lyrical melody also symbolizes the complex relationship between the protagonist, Ashitaka, and the heroine, San, resonating deeply with listeners.

Why not try playing this piece on the piano, which beautifully colors the film’s climactic scenes?

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu34rank/position

Walk, Looking Up – 'Sukiyaki' – Kyu Sakamoto (Sakamoto Kyu) 1961.avi

Sukiyaki (Ue o Muite Arukou), Kyu Sakamoto’s signature song that everyone has heard at least once, was used as an insert song in Studio Ghibli’s 2011 film From Up on Poppy Hill.

In the movie, the song is heard playing on the television.

Director Hayao Miyazaki apparently had another song in mind, but producer Toshio Suzuki recommended this one.

Its relaxed melody and bittersweet lyrics that resonate with anyone make you stop and listen.

It’s a great pick for karaoke for all genders!

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sasashina

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Song of TimeTeshima Aoi35rank/position

Song of Time (Sigan-ui Norae) Ged’s Saga Aoi Teshima

This is the theme song of Tales from Earthsea, directed and written by Gorō Miyazaki, son of Hayao Miyazaki.

I think many people were moved to tears when this song played in theaters.

Often called “when you think Ghibli, you think Aoi Teshima’s songs,” her voice is truly unique and captivating.

Along with the insert song “Therru’s Song,” it’s one you’ll want to sing at karaoke.