Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

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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sai-kisaragi

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First workday of the yearHisaishi Joe22rank/position

Kiki’s Delivery Service Starting the Job Joe Hisaishi

From the 1989 Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service, this is a piece composed by Joe Hisaishi.

It plays during the scene where the protagonist, Kiki, sets out on her own as a witch and begins her airborne delivery work.

The lively triple meter and European folk-dance-style melody fill the listener with excitement.

The combination of mandolin accompaniment and a charming flute melody is particularly striking.

Its bright, buoyant sound makes it a great fit for background music to magic tricks or shows.

Legend of the WindHisaishi Joe23rank/position

Joe Hisaishi – Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (Legend of the Wind)

This is a piece used in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

I love the moment when it shifts from the clamorous atmosphere at the beginning to the gentle piano melody.

It fits perfectly with the world of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, and I think it’s one of the best tracks.

It’s a song that really appeals to the emotions.

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sasashina

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Ashitaka and SanHisaishi Joe24rank/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?

Oriental WindHisaishi Joe25rank/position

Joe Hisaishi – Oriental Wind

Masahiro Motoki and Mei Nagano appear as master tea artisans, speaking about Iemon as a tea they can confidently recommend.

The straightforward, head-on presentation of the product’s appeal gives a sense of refreshing honesty.

The BGM is “Oriental Wind,” a familiar tune from Iemon commercials.

Composed by Joe Hisaishi and one of his signature pieces, it features a piano performance with an elegant, distinctly Japanese melodic line.

It’s a beautiful piece often used at traditional Japanese-style weddings.

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Hane Keisuke

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againHisaishi Joe26rank/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.

Howl’s Moving Castle ‘Merry-Go-Round of Life’Hisaishi Joe27rank/position

"Merry-Go-Round of Life" Howl's Moving Castle [with sheet music] – Ghibli – Ear-copied Piano Cover – Piano Cover – CANACANA

The waltz-style piece that serves as the main theme of Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece film Howl’s Moving Castle captivates with the orchestra’s rich harmonies and a dreamlike atmosphere.

Its elegant 3/4-time melody splendidly captures the world of the film, which was released in November 2004.

Beginning with a piano introduction, the work weaves beautiful lines from the oboe and strings, resulting in a refined character that reflects the influence of European classical music.

In 2021, singer Kumiko covered the piece and released it as a single.

It’s a highly recommended piece for boys who want to perform at a recital, combining both brilliance and strength that will enthrall the audience.

The girl who fell from the skyHisaishi Joe28rank/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.

My Neighbor Totoro ‘Sanpo’ (Stroll)Hisaishi Joe29rank/position

“Sanpo (Duet)” Studio Ghibli Recital Repertoire [Elementary] 2 – Zen-On Music / Hey Let’s Go: Studio Ghibli Recital Repertoire 2 – Elementary

We present a bright and energetic march-style song used as a Studio Ghibli film’s main theme.

The piece opens with the sound of bagpipes, creating a sense of exhilaration and anticipation for adventure.

Released in April 1988 as the opening theme of the film, it is sung by Azumi Inoue and the Suginami Children’s Chorus.

It expresses the joy of children meeting animals in nature and their curiosity to explore unknown worlds, and it is beloved at events in kindergartens and nursery schools.

Its simple, friendly melody is recommended as a duet piece that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

By playing in sync, performers can feel a unity with nature and the importance of friendship—making it a song cherished across generations.

My Neighbor Totoro – Duet VersionHisaishi Joe30rank/position

Tried playing My Neighbor Totoro in an epic style – Joe Hisaishi, Piano Duet (Reikana)

This is a duet version for two pianos of the main theme from a classic Studio Ghibli animated film.

The gentle, warm melody and the rich sonority woven by four hands blend beautifully, further enhancing the charm of the original piece.

Featured on the celebrated album “My Neighbor Totoro Soundtrack,” released alongside the film in 1988, its bright and lively character is sure to soothe listeners.

Requiring tightly coordinated ensemble playing, this is a piece you’ll want to tackle with fellow piano lovers.

Its arrangement shines in recitals and concerts alike, captivating audiences.

An ideal work for pianists looking to refine both expressive depth and solid technique.