Joe Hisaishi Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Kiki’s Delivery ServiceHisaishi Joe57rank/position

06 Kiki’s Delivery Service Suite – JOE HISAISHI & WORLD DREAM ORCHESTRA 2019

It’s a song from the movie Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Every time I listen to it, memories come back.

Even in a classical arrangement, it’s very calming to listen to, and it still feels fresh even now.

I love this song.

It’s a piece that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

Runner of the SpiritHisaishi Joe58rank/position

Runner of the Spirit for Wind Ensemble / Joe Hisaishi

Many of you will instantly recognize that grand fanfare that pours out of the TV during New Year’s, right? It’s the famous piece composed by Joe Hisaishi that has graced the opening and ending of the Hakone Ekiden since the 85th race in January 2009.

Its symphonic resonance—evoking the rising excitement of the runners about to pass the sash and the drama after the finish—warms the heart before you know it.

In fact, this work is also known as Hisaishi’s first foray into wind ensemble composition.

Structured to express everything from the pre-start tension to the lingering echoes at the finish, it’s a perfect fit to inspire the students taking on this grueling race.

If you listen to it for your first run of the New Year or when you need courage at a crucial moment, it’s sure to stoke your fighting spirit.

SpringHisaishi Joe59rank/position

Joe Hisaishi – Spring

Joe Hisaishi is globally renowned as a master of film music.

While his grand orchestral pieces are striking, he is also highly regarded for his approachable piano works that fit seamlessly into everyday life.

Among them, a top recommendation is this piece included on the album “FREEDOM PIANO STORIES 4.” Chosen for Benesse’s “Shinken Zemi” commercial and released in January 2005, it beautifully captures the anticipation and tension of spring, when new chapters begin.

The light, pleasant piano timbre is filled with the sense that something is about to start, making it perfect as BGM before studying or working.

Beneath its brightness lies a gentle touch of wistfulness, superbly portraying the dual nature of the spring season.

Name of Life from Spirited AwayHisaishi Joe60rank/position

Name of Life (from “Spirited Away”)

Many listeners have surely been captivated by the crystalline piano tones and faintly nostalgic melody.

The theme song of Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece Spirited Away evokes a bittersweet yet warm story of searching for lost memories and one’s true self.

Its message—recalling something precious and finding one’s place—reaches us with quiet emotion.

Released in July 2001 as a single performed by Yumi Kimura, the song deepened the film’s impact.

The piece originally began as an instrumental track on the soundtrack.

Its calm, dreamlike phrasing is perfect for times when you want to focus on work or study.

Letting yourself drift on its gentle waves of sound may calm your heart and clear your mind.

My Neighbor Totoro ‘Catbus’Hisaishi Joe61rank/position

Catbus, My Neighbor Totoro, Ghibli, solo four-hands (one-person duet), “Duet pieces I want to play at a recital,” “Fun duet pieces.”

The piece used in the film’s brisk, whimsical vehicle scene is notable for its warm sound in A-flat major and its bouncy rhythm.

The melody, unfolding at a speedy tempo, evokes a mysterious nighttime adventure.

Characterized by a fast tempo and an appealing melodic line, this work is perfect for piano four hands.

By synchronizing breathing and listening to each other’s sound while playing, performers can experience the joy of piano performance.

Since the film’s release in 1988, this piece has continued to be loved by many music enthusiasts, and through four-hand performance it serves as a fine work that fosters bonds across generations.

Frequently performed in a variety of arrangements, it is also ideal for recitals.

Because the difficulty varies by part, it can be enjoyed by different pairings—teacher and student, parent and child, and more.

CatbusHisaishi Joe62rank/position

🍓 My Neighbor Totoro “Catbus” Studio Ghibli. HiyokoHouse

The perfect song for cute ring boys and ring girls dressed in special outfits different from usual is “The Catbus.” It was used as an image song for the 1988 animated film My Neighbor Totoro.

Many people will be familiar with the dynamic scenes of the Catbus running.

Its beautiful melody line set to a lively rhythm is particularly striking.

Since it’s an instrumental track without lyrics, the children can stay focused on their movements! Consider using this humorous piece—which helps ease kids’ nerves—as BGM for your wedding scene.

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Sky of my hometownHisaishi Joe63rank/position

Hometown Sky (Toyama Prefecture Hometown Song) Mixed Choir, 4-part Version, Composed by Joe Hisaishi

Furusato no Sora, composed by Joe Hisaishi, is a gem unveiled in 2012 that weaves the beautiful nature of Toyama Prefecture and the hearts of its people into music.

This piece pairs lyrics, additionally written by Toyama native Akira Sudo, with Hisaishi’s delicate composition, creating a work that instills pride in Toyama.

Its nostalgic melody evokes the changing scenery of the four seasons and conveys the warmth of one’s hometown.

It’s a moving masterpiece recommended not only for the people of Toyama, but for anyone who wishes to feel the pull of nostalgia.