Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

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?

Howl’s Moving Castle ‘Merry-Go-Round of Life’Hisaishi Joe25rank/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.

Oriental WindHisaishi Joe26rank/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 Joe27rank/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.

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.