Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Carrying YouHisaishi Joe15rank/position

One-Finger Piano with Do-Re-Mi Notation [Carrying You] from Castle in the Sky (Laputa) – Easy for Beginners

The theme song of Studio Ghibli’s classic Castle in the Sky, “Carrying You,” is a masterpiece with a beautiful melody that captivates people of all ages.

It’s even included in music textbooks used in elementary schools.

Because it’s a gentle piece, you can take your time and play it even with just one finger.

The key to conveying the original song’s wistful atmosphere lies in the long notes.

It’s easy to focus on the more intricate passages, but by firmly sustaining the notes that last three or four beats until just before you play the next note, you can avoid rushing and achieve a clean performance.

Be sure to pay attention to this point.

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The Path of the WindHisaishi Joe16rank/position

[Piano and Acoustic Guitar] Path of the Wind [Tried Playing]

The Path of the Wind, an insert song from the Studio Ghibli film My Neighbor Totoro, is extraordinarily famous.

For many people, just hearing the melody brings Totoro and his friends instantly to mind.

Joe Hisaishi’s classic Ghibli pieces, including this one, are often featured in orchestral and chamber music concerts.

A guitar-and-piano arrangement may be unusual, but it suits the piece’s simple yet subtly mysterious atmosphere very well.

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Ashitaka SeikIHisaishi Joe17rank/position

The Legend of Ashitaka (Symphonic Suite “Princess Mononoke” / Live)

This piece, which symbolizes the adventures and growth of Ashitaka, the protagonist of the film Princess Mononoke, is characterized by its piano solo and flavorful arrangement.

Composed for the film released in 1997, it was also used in the ending and left a deep impression on audiences.

Expressing themes such as the relationship between humans and nature, the preciousness of life, and harmony through a beautiful melody, it is also popular as wedding background music.

With its relaxed atmosphere, it’s a song that makes you feel the bond with someone special, making it perfect for moving scenes at a wedding reception.

Village in MayHisaishi Joe18rank/position

[Piano for Beginners] May Village Level 1 [Free Sheet Music with Do-Re-Mi Notation]

It’s a captivating piece with a buoyant melody that conjures up lush, green countryside scenes.

It’s that song from the 1988 film My Neighbor Totoro, played as the sisters, thrilled about their new life, appear on screen.

What’s wonderful about this piece is its brisk, jazz-like rhythm, which adds a stylish, cheerful touch to Japan’s tranquil landscapes.

When playing it on the piano, the key is to bring out a skipping, bouncy sense of rhythm.

If you play energetically and with joy, you’ll surely capture the piece’s sense of excitement.

Try to bounce lightly across the keys as if you were the story’s protagonist.

The Legend of AshitakaHisaishi Joe19rank/position

The Legend of Ashitaka / Princess Mononoke (From 'Princess Mononoke' – 'Ashitaka Sekki') (Shakuhachi / Piano Cover)

Joe Hisaishi, whose grand orchestrations have colored countless films.

The piece he composed for the ending of Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke unfolds like a vast picture scroll, portraying the profound theme of humanity and nature through a beautifully melancholic melody.

The unique world Hisaishi creates pairs perfectly with the mysterious timbre of the shakuhachi.

When you want to contemplate the majesty of nature or quietly reflect at night, why not immerse yourself in this music?

The River of That DayHisaishi Joe20rank/position

Joe Hisaishi - “One Summer’s Day” [Absolutely Playable Even for Beginners! How to Play on Piano] Level: ☆☆☆

This piece, from the film “Spirited Away,” leaves a lasting impression with its quiet, nostalgic melody that symbolizes the shifting emotions of the protagonist.

The gentle, unhurried piano timbre evokes a bittersweet yet warm feeling, as if recalling past memories or something precious.

In fact, this work was originally a song with vocals, included on the album “Spirited Away: Image Album” released in April 2001, and in the film it was used in an arrangement centered on the piano.

It has been loved beyond the framework of the movie, serving as background music for TV programs and stage productions as well.

It’s a perfect piece for those who want to play as if cherishing each note and weaving a story.

Aim for careful sound production that highlights the beauty of the melody, and try performing while picturing the scenes in your mind!

CatbusHisaishi Joe21rank/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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