Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

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.

Nausicaä RequiemHisaishi Joe30rank/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 Joe31rank/position

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

Conducted by Joe Hisaishi himself, who is active worldwide, “A Mother’s Broom” from Studio Ghibli’s gem of a film Kiki’s Delivery Service is being performed by an overseas orchestra.

It begins with an introduction reminiscent of “A Town with an Ocean View,” which plays in the film, and then transitions into a lovely violin solo.

This piece accompanies the scene where Kiki sets off on her journey, seen off by her parents and friends, and it’s a masterpiece that conveys her mother’s kindness and the warmth of her hometown.

The performance itself also conveys that gentleness and warmth, bringing a sense of comfort to the heart.

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Soot SpritesHisaishi Joe32rank/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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My Neighbor Totoro – Duet VersionHisaishi Joe33rank/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 Joe34rank/position

Castle in the Sky: Sheeta’s Resolve - Piano Solo

In “Castle in the Sky,” this piece plays during the scene where the protagonist Sheeta, buffeted by a strange fate, chants a spell with firm resolve in her heart.

True to its title, “Sheeta’s Determination,” it conveys the strength of the feelings that dwell within her seemingly delicate heart.

The piano is beautiful.

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Music of the CelestialsHisaishi Joe35rank/position

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya: Celestial Beings’ Music (2018 ver.)

This is “Heavenly Beings’ Music” from The Tale of the Princess Kaguya.

The composer is Joe Hisaishi, well known for his music in Studio Ghibli works.

Hisaishi is one of the representative composers for Studio Ghibli, but interestingly, he usually scores only films directed by Hayao Miyazaki; when other directors are involved, different composers tend to take over.

The director of The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is Isao Takahata, making this a rare case where Hisaishi worked on a non-Miyazaki film.

Since Princess Mononoke, full orchestras have more frequently been used for in-film performances.

As Ghibli and Hisaishi’s popularity has grown, there have been more concerts as well, and it’s said that Hisaishi creates new arrangements for each concert.

It might be fun to compare the soundtrack versions with the concert versions.

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