Ranking of Popular Ghibli Songs [2026]

Ponyo on the CliffFujioka Fujimaki & Oohashi Nozomi43rank/position

Ponyo: Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea

An exceptionally cute theme song that portrays Ponyo brimming with energy! The harmonies of Fujimaki Fujio and Nozomi Ohashi resonate deeply.

Released in December 2007, this track was created for the 2008 film Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.

Its lyrics, which sing of the pure friendship between Ponyo, a little fish girl from the sea, and Sosuke, a human boy, leave a lasting impression.

With a catchy melody and lively rhythm, this piece is beloved by a wide range of generations, from children to adults, and is perfect as BGM for weddings and receptions.

The innocent, curiosity-filled vocals will bless the happy couple as they embark on their new journey together.

Mother of the SeaHayashi Masako44rank/position

Hayashi Masako – Mother of the sea

This is an insert song from Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.

It’s a track that doesn’t feel very Ghibli-like.

The contrast with Nozomi Ohashi’s vocals on the main theme makes it particularly striking.

It’s a song that makes you want to watch Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea again—a cute, heartwarming story that helps restore a sense of humanity.

Merry-Go-Round of LifeKumiko45rank/position

Merry-Go-Round of Life – Kumi Ko (Howl’s Moving Castle)

“Merry-Go-Round of Life,” the familiar main theme from Howl’s Moving Castle.

For inclusion on Kumiko’s best album “Waga Uruwashi ki Koi Monogatari,” Wakako Kaku wrote brand-new lyrics, turning it into a vocal piece.

If you once thought, “I love this song, but it’s instrumental so I can’t sing it…,” please give it a try now.

The lyrics, carried by the wistful melody, are irresistibly poignant and evocative.

I hope you’ll sing it with plenty of mood and feeling!

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sasashina

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strollHisaishi Joe46rank/position

My Neighbor Totoro – Hey let’s go (Ghibli 25th year Budokan concert)

Azumi Inoue’s “Sanpo,” the signature song from Studio Ghibli’s emblematic film My Neighbor Totoro, is performed here with orchestra and chorus.

The footage is from “Joe Hisaishi in Budokan: 25 Years with the Animations of Hayao Miyazaki,” featuring numerous Ghibli masterpieces arranged and conducted by Joe Hisaishi himself.

The live texture of the orchestra is truly wonderful.

This piece was previously arranged for “Orchestra Stories: My Neighbor Totoro,” which includes a narrated performance—highly recommended as well.

Like an instrument introduction, it features sections where only the woodwinds or only the brass play, as well as sections for strings and percussion, plus solo passages, making it an arrangement that showcases the orchestra’s appeal.

It’s also recommended as an introductory piece for those new to orchestral music.

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sai-kisaragi

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The girl who fell from the skyHisaishi Joe47rank/position

From Castle in the Sky: 'The Girl Who Fell from the Sky'

A piece by Joe Hisaishi included on the image album for Castle in the Sky (Laputa).

It serves as a mystical theme symbolizing the heroine, Sheeta.

While classical in nature, it features grand, fantastical orchestration.

The fusion of synthesizer and orchestra showcases Hisaishi’s distinctive musical style.

Released in August 1986 and re-released in August 2004, this work is also perfect as wedding background music.

Its mysterious atmosphere can enhance the couple’s entrance or serve as the soundtrack for a photo slideshow, making it versatile for various uses.

strollInoue Azumi48rank/position

[Azumi Inoue] I tried singing “Sanpo” from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro!

Speaking of Azumi Inoue’s signature song, isn’t it “Sanpo,” used in My Neighbor Totoro? Released in 1988, this film is among the most famous of Studio Ghibli’s works, and the song is truly loved and sung by people of all ages, from adults to children.

Many of us probably sang it as kids or have sung it to our own children.

This upbeat, nursery-rhyme-like tune lifts your spirits just by singing it.

I hope it continues to be passed down and sung by many people for years to come.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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DepartureHisaishi Joe49rank/position

[Beginner Piano] Departure Level 2 [Free Sheet Music]

This is an iconic piece from the film Kiki’s Delivery Service that brings to mind the scene where the heroine sets off for a new town.

The bright, refreshing melody played by the orchestra perfectly captures that thrilling feeling of taking a first step with hope—and just a touch of anxiety—in your heart.

Beloved since the film’s release in July 1989, this piece lifts your spirits just by listening.

Its friendly tune makes it a great recommendation for those taking on the piano as well! With a simple left-hand accompaniment arrangement to practice, it’s easier to grasp the buoyant rhythms in the right hand.

Try playing these hope-filled tones that herald the beginning of the story.