Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Time of DepartureHisaishi Joe8rank/position

Mixed Chorus Piece 'Time of Departure'

This piece was composed by Joe Hisaishi, renowned for creating music for Studio Ghibli works.

It was made as the theme song for the 1997 Nagano Paralympics.

With its beautiful melodic piano line, it’s a rewarding choice for a graduation song, especially since students often take on the piano part.

While it’s a song about setting off on a journey, its grand lyrics that evoke the earth and flowers flow toward broader themes like life and hope.

It’s perfect for a graduation ceremony that marks the first step into something new.

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tsukada moe

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My Neighbor TotoroHisaishi Joe9rank/position

Soprano Recorder | “My Neighbor Totoro” with Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music

Composed by Joe Hisaishi with lyrics by Hayao Miyazaki, this theme song is perfect for playing on the recorder.

It’s a gentle waltz in 3/4 time, and the simple main melody doesn’t span a wide range, making it easy to play.

There are relatively few flats and sharps as well.

Above all, since it’s a familiar tune, you’ll quickly get used to the fingerings.

Performed with the recorder’s uniquely rustic, warm tone, this piece—which depicts the heartfelt connection between mysterious forest creatures and children—conveys the film’s gentle world even more vividly.

It’s also great for harmonizing with someone else!

A Town with an Ocean ViewHisaishi Joe10rank/position

Seaside Town [Recorder] from the film “Kiki’s Delivery Service” • with Do-Re-Mi sheet music

A refreshing song that graces the opening of a Studio Ghibli masterpiece.

It gently wraps the protagonist’s mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety about a new life in a bright, lighthearted melody.

Composed by Joe Hisaishi, this piece blends classical and pop elements beautifully, creating a distinctive atmosphere that musically evokes Europe’s charming old towns and seascapes.

When playing it on the recorder, start by carefully practicing the main melody, and then gradually broaden your expressive range—you’re sure to create a lovely performance.

Dragon BoyHisaishi Joe11rank/position

Spirited Away – Dragon Boy ( Daizo Edit Extended)

From Studio Ghibli’s hugely famous film Spirited Away, this is “The Dragon Boy.” The “dragon” refers to Haku, and the piece is used in the scene where Haku and Chihiro meet and then depart from the bathhouse.

In the film, the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra performs it: a mystical tone born from layered harp and piano leads into flowing horn lines, while the woodwinds stack in perfect fourths to evoke a traditional Japanese atmosphere.

This performance is a longer version than the one in the film, making “The Dragon Boy” even more powerful.

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sai-kisaragi

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strollSakushi: Nakagawa Rieko / Sakkyoku: Hisaishi Joe12rank/position

♪ Stroll – Let’s walk, let’s walk, I’m feeling great~ ♪ <with choreography> [Studio Ghibli film “My Neighbor Totoro” opening theme]

This bright, upbeat march-style song is perfect for bonding with your child.

Released in November 1987 on the album “My Neighbor Totoro: Image Song Collection,” it is also well known as the opening theme song for Studio Ghibli’s animated film “My Neighbor Totoro.” The lyrics were written by children’s author Rieko Nakagawa, with music composed by Joe Hisaishi.

Its charm lies in the simple melody that inspires a positive mood and the warm, heartfelt lyrics.

It’s great for energetic singing with movement, making it ideal for musical play in nursery schools and kindergartens.

It’s a wonderful song you can enjoy together while facing your child, holding hands, and sharing affectionate contact.

Path of the WindHisaishi Joe13rank/position

My Neighbor Totoro Orchestra Stories – 05. The Path of the Wind

The indispensable classic “The Path of the Wind” from Studio Ghibli’s beloved masterpiece My Neighbor Totoro is presented here in an orchestral performance.

This piece is included in “Orchestra Stories: My Neighbor Totoro,” in which composer Joe Hisaishi restructured music from My Neighbor Totoro so it can be enjoyed with narration.

In the original, Hisaishi—then influenced by minimalism—used an electronic sound, but this version becomes a grand orchestral work that brings out the beauty of acoustic instruments.

The sheet music is also available, so students and members of community orchestras who want to enjoy ensemble playing on real instruments might consider giving it a try.

After the introduction, the violin solo is superb, vividly conjuring up images of Japan’s pastoral landscapes.

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sai-kisaragi

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Always With MeHisaishi Joe14rank/position

Yumi Kimura - "Always With Me"

This is the song that became the theme song for Spirited Away.

The film’s worldview is reflected in the music, and it truly feels worthy of being the main theme.

The tones are all quite calming as well, so it might be nice to listen to when you want to relax.

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sasashina

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