Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Ponyo on the CliffHisaishi Joe71rank/position

One-Finger Piano [Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea] by Fujioaka Fujimaki and Nozomi Ohashi – Easy Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music for Absolute Beginners

The theme song of Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, the adventure story of Ponyo, a fish girl who wishes to become human, and Sosuke, a human boy, features a bright, rhythmic melody that’s irresistible! Since the film’s release in July 2008, this Ghibli classic has continued to be loved by children along with the movie itself.

Because it includes intricate rhythms and leaps, if it’s difficult to play with a single finger in one hand, we recommend splitting the range and playing with one finger from each hand.

Picture Ponyo’s cute character and her warm bond with Sosuke, and perform with a light, lively touch.

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Departure — Westward —Hisaishi Joe72rank/position

Princess Mononoke – Journey to the West (orchestra cover)

There is no piece more beautiful or more fitting to express through music the overwhelming scale of the film Princess Mononoke—the nature encircled by mountains and trees of its world, and its majestic history.

Every single note carries conviction; it is a masterpiece that renders one speechless.

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Murakami Shinpei

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On a sunny day…Hisaishi Joe73rank/position

Kiki’s Delivery Service – On a Clear Day (woodwinds cover)

A distinctive ensemble of light piano and strings from the film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Its fresh, blue-sky atmosphere is striking, and listening to it gives you a sense that your heart grows a little lighter.

The piece expresses the protagonist Kiki’s hopes and expectations for her new life through music, leaving listeners with a bright and gentle impression.

It’s also popular at weddings and other events, often used during guest reception and conversation scenes.

It’s a perfect track for creating moments filled with new beginnings and hope.

A Town with an Ocean View (from “Kiki’s Delivery Service”)Hisaishi Joe74rank/position

A Town with an Ocean View (from “Kiki’s Delivery Service”)

This is a piece by Joe Hisaishi with a memorable, hope-filled melody that makes you feel as if a beautiful seaside town is unfolding before your eyes.

The emotions that arise at the moment of taking a new step—expectation mingled with a touch of anxiety—are brilliantly rendered through light, sparkling piano tones.

The piece accompanies the moving scene in the July 1989 film Kiki’s Delivery Service where the protagonist soars over a new town, and it is included on the classic album Kiki’s Delivery Service: Music Collection released the same year.

Its nostalgic yet liberating atmosphere is sure to refresh you when you feel stuck with work or study.

Why not spend a focused, enriching time wrapped in its gentle, forward-looking melody?

Interaction with the OhmuHisaishi Joe75rank/position

Interaction with an Ohmu from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

It’s a piece often cited as the most striking track in the film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

Also known as “Nausicaä Requiem.” In a space that sounds like a cathedral-like cave, an echoing hum of a little girl—“Ran, raa la la ran ran ran”—resonates.

A requiem that evokes fear within its beauty.

Its lingering melody is addictive.

godsHisaishi Joe76rank/position

Spirited Away 'Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi' 千と千尋の神隠し The Gods

In Spirited Away, a wide variety of gods gather at the bathhouse.

From the radish spirit to chick-like creatures, this piece captures the uniquely charming deities that are delightful just to look at.

It’s used in the scene where they go from Kamaji’s place to Yubaba’s.

The timbre is rich, perfectly turning the lively bustle of the gods’ gathering into music.

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Murakami Shinpei

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I Became a BirdHisaishi Joe77rank/position

I Became a Bird – Arika Takarano / [I Became a Bird – Arika Takarano]

This is a song titled “I Became a Bird,” sung by Arika Takarano, known for her work with ALI PROJECT.

The sounds of the flute and accordion put you in a cheerful mood! Surely everyone has dreamed of soaring freely through the sky like a bird.

It’s a song I hope you’ll listen to while picturing the scenery you might see if you became a bird.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Porco RossoHisaishi Joe78rank/position

[HD] Porco Rosso Theme Live – Joe Hisaishi in Budokan Studio Ghibli 25 Years

This is a song from Porco Rosso.

It has a slightly mature feel, and its soothing melody is achingly beautiful.

From the quiet parts to the climactic moments, it makes you want to listen again and again.

It has a certain mood, and the music fits the film’s atmosphere perfectly.

Runner of the SpiriHisaishi Joe79rank/position

Runner of the Spirit for Wind Ensemble: Ending

This grand piece by Joe Hisaishi serves as the official song of the Hakone Ekiden.

I think it’s rare to find a track that elevates the athletes’ emotions this much.

Even if you don’t watch the Hakone Ekiden TV broadcast, this is a song you should hear—you won’t regret it.

My Neighbor TotoroInoue Azumi / Hisaishi Joe80rank/position

My Neighbor Totoro (Tonari no Totoro) Easy Piano - Slow - Beginner Practice Tutorial

The ending theme of the film My Neighbor Totoro conjures up images of the Catbus carrying Totoro, Satsuki, and Mei racing across a starry sky.

Alongside “Sanpo,” it’s one of the most popular Ghibli songs.

Phrases where the melody’s notes cross over bar lines may make two-handed playing feel a bit challenging, but if you practice with a simple left-hand accompaniment, it should be easier to grasp the rhythm in your right hand.

Be sure to count carefully as you play so you don’t rush through the parts where notes are held for a long time.

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yuri

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