Joe Hisaishi’s Wedding Songs: Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Ashitaka SeikIHisaishi Joe15rank/position

The Legend of Ashitaka (Symphonic Suite “Princess Mononoke” / Live)

This piece, which symbolizes the adventures and growth of Ashitaka, the protagonist of the film Princess Mononoke, is characterized by its piano solo and flavorful arrangement.

Composed for the film released in 1997, it was also used in the ending and left a deep impression on audiences.

Expressing themes such as the relationship between humans and nature, the preciousness of life, and harmony through a beautiful melody, it is also popular as wedding background music.

With its relaxed atmosphere, it’s a song that makes you feel the bond with someone special, making it perfect for moving scenes at a wedding reception.

Ashitaka DiaryHisaishi Joe16rank/position

Princess Mononoke – The Legend of Ashitaka

This is “The Legend of Ashitaka” from Studio Ghibli’s feature-length animated film Princess Mononoke, a work that stands proudly as a heavy and grand orchestral piece in its own right.

Studio Ghibli began as a feature animation production company with the release of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind on March 11, 1984, and Princess Mononoke is its tenth film.

It is also known for elevating animation from something consumed solely by fans to a form of “art.” The production scale was immense, and from around this time, more recordings featured live orchestral performances.

Listening to the music, it is not merely background accompaniment for animation but sounds like a worthy new classical work in its own right.

The orchestral performance was by the Tokyo City Philharmonic Orchestra, and this was also the first time a permanent professional orchestra, rather than an ad hoc ensemble, was employed.

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CatbusHisaishi Joe17rank/position

🍓 My Neighbor Totoro “Catbus” Studio Ghibli. HiyokoHouse

A song inspired by the Catbus, one of the most memorable characters in Studio Ghibli’s works.

It features a light and cheerful melody that instantly lifts your spirits just by listening.

In the film My Neighbor Totoro, it’s used in the scene where Satsuki rides the Catbus to search for the lost Mei.

Released in August 2004, this track is also popular in a band-style arrangement with added drums and bass.

It’s perfect as background music for wedding entertainment or scenes featuring children.

Highly recommended to liven up your wedding reception.

Helping at a bakeryHisaishi Joe18rank/position

The Baker’s Assistant (Pan’ya no Tetsudai) – Kiki’s Delivery Service Ost「05」

An insert song from Kiki’s Delivery Service with a warm atmosphere that makes you feel as if you’re watching Kiki grow.

Composed by Joe Hisaishi, this piece beautifully captures the world of the film and is loved not only by Ghibli fans but by many people.

For many, it probably brings back the scene where Kiki works at the bakery.

With its bright, hopeful mood that feels like a blessing on a new chapter in life, it’s perfect for weddings and receptions.

There’s also a piano duet arrangement published, so it’s great for performing together with friends or family.

Village in MayHisaishi Joe19rank/position

[Ghibli 03] My Neighbor Totoro - Satsuki's Village: The Village in May [BGM for Work]

This piece, which gently expresses the world of My Neighbor Totoro—a film themed around living in harmony with nature—has been performed in various formats, including piano solo and orchestra.

It was included on the soundtrack released in August 1988 and was used in the film’s opening and in scenes depicting the countryside.

Featuring a simple and beautiful melody, the track is also easy to use at wedding ceremonies and receptions, making it perfect for those who want to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

DepartureHisaishi Joe20rank/position

"Departure" from "Kiki's Delivery Service" played by ocha

A heartwarming piece by Joe Hisaishi, known as an insert song from the Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

The gentle piano melody that colors the scene of the protagonist Kiki setting off on her journey is particularly memorable.

Recorded between June and July 1989, this work beautifully captures the delicate emotions woven from Kiki’s anxiety and hope.

It’s perfect for creating a warm atmosphere at life’s new beginnings, such as weddings or graduations.

While it was released on CD as part of the film’s soundtrack, piano sheet music is also available, so it’s highly recommended to enjoy playing it yourself.

Departure ~To the West~Hisaishi Joe21rank/position

Princess Mononoke – Departure to the West

A piece that brilliantly captures the world of the film Princess Mononoke.

The grand orchestral sound and the beautiful melodies of piano and strings are truly striking.

This track is included on the Princess Mononoke soundtrack, released in July 1997, and has long been loved as a song that evokes the film’s moving scenes.

If used at a wedding, its blend of strength and tenderness—symbolizing the bride and groom’s new journey—will further elevate the atmosphere of the venue.

It’s a recommended piece not only for bridal scenes but also for celebrating the departure of someone dear on a new path.