Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Carrying Yousakushi: miyazaki hayao / sakkyoku: hishashi jō29rank/position

Carrying You [Iwate University Choir]

This is a renowned song that graces the ending of Castle in the Sky, the first feature-length animated film produced by Studio Ghibli.

Released in August 1986 as the closing piece of a tie-in work, it left audiences with a profound afterglow.

It is also included on the album Castle in the Sky Soundtrack: The Mystery of the Levitation Stone, released the same month.

Based on notes written by Hayao Miyazaki, Joe Hisaishi, Isao Takahata, and others organized and completed the piece to fit the melody.

Its nostalgic tune and universal theme of setting out on a journey make it perfect for choral performance.

Even adults feel a deep poignancy when listening, and it’s an ideal song for uniting a class in song.

It’s a piece that junior high school students aiming for a polished performance should definitely try.

My Neighbor Totoro ‘Sanpo’ (Stroll)Hisaishi Joe30rank/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 Joe31rank/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.

Sheeta’s ResolveHisaishi Joe32rank/position

Castle in the Sky | Sheeta’s Resolve [Piano] Tried Playing | Takushi | Castle in the Sky | Sheeta’s Decision [Piano]

This piece is known as part of the score for Castle in the Sky.

Amid the grand swashbuckling adventure, it delicately portrays a girl’s quiet resolve and solitude as she faces her destiny, through a beautiful piano melody.

It has a clear, translucent quality tinged with nostalgia, and there’s a charm to it that feels like it gently stays by your side.

Included on the album Castle in the Sky: Soundtrack—The Mystery of the Levistone, released in August 1986.

Recommended for those who want to calm their minds.

Nausicaä RequiemHisaishi Joe33rank/position

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

This piece, created by Joe Hisaishi, one of Japan’s leading composers, was used as an insert song in the film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, specifically in the scene where a young Nausicaä appears.

Its distinctive melody is striking, and it is sung by Hisaishi’s daughter, Mai, whose pure voice imbues the entire film with deep emotion.

With a minimalist structure that conveys both melancholy and composure, the piece perfectly matches the film’s atmosphere.

It’s also recommended for those who want to try not only bright or beautiful piano pieces but also pieces with a slightly unique mood.

Mother’s BroomHisaishi Joe34rank/position

Joe Hisaishi – Mother’s Broom (from Kiki’s Delivery Service)

This piece features a captivating melody line that blends expectations of independence with a touch of anxiety.

It opened the album “Kiki’s Delivery Service Image Album,” released in April 1989 ahead of the film’s premiere.

It expresses, through sound, the feelings passed from parent to child and the emotions of setting off into a new world.

The gentle tones of accordion and strings avoid excessive assertiveness and speak directly to the heart.

I think it’s great for working while staying relaxed.

Soot SpritesHisaishi Joe35rank/position

Soot Sprites (Piano) ~ from the film “My Neighbor Totoro” ~

It’s the song about the soot sprites that Satsuki and Mei call “Makkuro Kurosuke.” The melody is cute but has a slightly mysterious feel.

I bet many people, after watching My Neighbor Totoro, searched their houses for Makkuro Kurosuke, didn’t they?

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