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Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Joe Hisaishi, whose melodies truly strike a chord with the Japanese soul, is recognized around the world.No matter when you listen, they always make you feel nostalgic, don’t they?His stage name, Joe Hisaishi, comes from the famous American producer Quincy Jones.This time, I’ve selected some of his popular songs.

Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (71–80)

Ponyo on the CliffHisaishi Joe71rank/position

One-Finger Piano [Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea] by Fujioaka Fujimaki and Nozomi Ohashi – Easy Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music for Absolute Beginners
Ponyo on the CliffHisaishi Joe

The theme song of Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, the adventure story of Ponyo, a fish girl who wishes to become human, and Sosuke, a human boy, features a bright, rhythmic melody that’s irresistible! Since the film’s release in July 2008, this Ghibli classic has continued to be loved by children along with the movie itself.

Because it includes intricate rhythms and leaps, if it’s difficult to play with a single finger in one hand, we recommend splitting the range and playing with one finger from each hand.

Picture Ponyo’s cute character and her warm bond with Sosuke, and perform with a light, lively touch.

Departure — Westward —Hisaishi Joe72rank/position

Princess Mononoke – Journey to the West (orchestra cover)
Departure — Westward —Hisaishi Joe

There is no piece more beautiful or more fitting to express through music the overwhelming scale of the film Princess Mononoke—the nature encircled by mountains and trees of its world, and its majestic history.

Every single note carries conviction; it is a masterpiece that renders one speechless.

On a sunny day…Hisaishi Joe73rank/position

Kiki’s Delivery Service – On a Clear Day (woodwinds cover)
On a sunny day...Hisaishi Joe

A distinctive ensemble of light piano and strings from the film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Its fresh, blue-sky atmosphere is striking, and listening to it gives you a sense that your heart grows a little lighter.

The piece expresses the protagonist Kiki’s hopes and expectations for her new life through music, leaving listeners with a bright and gentle impression.

It’s also popular at weddings and other events, often used during guest reception and conversation scenes.

It’s a perfect track for creating moments filled with new beginnings and hope.

A Town with an Ocean View (from “Kiki’s Delivery Service”)Hisaishi Joe74rank/position

This is a piece by Joe Hisaishi with a memorable, hope-filled melody that makes you feel as if a beautiful seaside town is unfolding before your eyes.

The emotions that arise at the moment of taking a new step—expectation mingled with a touch of anxiety—are brilliantly rendered through light, sparkling piano tones.

The piece accompanies the moving scene in the July 1989 film Kiki’s Delivery Service where the protagonist soars over a new town, and it is included on the classic album Kiki’s Delivery Service: Music Collection released the same year.

Its nostalgic yet liberating atmosphere is sure to refresh you when you feel stuck with work or study.

Why not spend a focused, enriching time wrapped in its gentle, forward-looking melody?

Interaction with the OhmuHisaishi Joe75rank/position

Interaction with an Ohmu from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
交流 with the OhmuHisaishi Joe

It’s a piece often cited as the most striking track in the film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

Also known as “Nausicaä Requiem.” In a space that sounds like a cathedral-like cave, an echoing hum of a little girl—“Ran, raa la la ran ran ran”—resonates.

A requiem that evokes fear within its beauty.

Its lingering melody is addictive.

godsHisaishi Joe76rank/position

Spirited Away 'Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi' 千と千尋の神隠し The Gods
godsHisaishi Joe

In Spirited Away, a wide variety of gods gather at the bathhouse.

From the radish spirit to chick-like creatures, this piece captures the uniquely charming deities that are delightful just to look at.

It’s used in the scene where they go from Kamaji’s place to Yubaba’s.

The timbre is rich, perfectly turning the lively bustle of the gods’ gathering into music.

I Became a BirdHisaishi Joe77rank/position

I Became a Bird – Arika Takarano / [I Became a Bird – Arika Takarano]
I Became a BirdHisaishi Joe

This is a song titled “I Became a Bird,” sung by Arika Takarano, known for her work with ALI PROJECT.

The sounds of the flute and accordion put you in a cheerful mood! Surely everyone has dreamed of soaring freely through the sky like a bird.

It’s a song I hope you’ll listen to while picturing the scenery you might see if you became a bird.