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

SummerHisaishi Joe1rank/position

Joe Hisaishi – Summer

A famous piece by Joe Hisaishi that paints a summer landscape.

Its beautiful melody, woven from freshness and nostalgia, resonates deep in the heart.

Released in May 1999 as part of the soundtrack for the film “Kikujiro,” it has since been used in commercials and many other contexts.

The delicate piano timbre and phrases reminiscent of a school chime are striking, gently stirring listeners’ memories.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you feel the arrival of summer or when you look back on memories with someone special.

It’s also popular for wedding reception arrivals, warmly embracing the hearts of guests.

Merry-Go-Round of LifeHisaishi Joe2rank/position

Howl’s Moving Castle – Main Theme Piano Solo | Leiki Ueda // arr. Kyle Landry Howl’s Moving Castle

A piece used as the main theme of Studio Ghibli’s film Howl’s Moving Castle.

Its distinctive, wistful melody unfolds over a waltz rhythm, beautifully capturing the film’s world.

Released in November 2004, the piece appears throughout the movie in various arrangements, evolving in step with the story.

It is also popular as background music for wedding ceremonies and receptions, appealing to a wide range of ages.

Since it is performed in many forms—such as piano solo and ensemble—feel free to choose an arrangement that suits the occasion.

A Town with an Ocean ViewHisaishi Joe3rank/position

A seaside town (Fingerstyle Guitar) / Yuki Matsui

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

It is characterized by a nostalgic atmosphere and classical style that portray the fictional town of “Koriko,” where the story is set.

The latter half unfolds with vibrant energy, skillfully expressing through music the self-growth and challenges of adapting to a new environment, along with the joy and wistfulness felt along the way.

Frequently used as wedding and reception BGM, this work is perfect for creating a warm ambiance.

It’s a heartwarming song befitting a celebration of a new chapter in life.

Ashitaka and SanHisaishi Joe4rank/position

[Piano] Ashitaka and San ~Princess Mononoke~ (Joe Hisaishi)

The main theme of Princess Mononoke, composed by Joe Hisaishi.

Characterized by grand orchestration and a delicate melody, it conveys through music the beauty and power of nature and the complexity of human emotions.

Featured on the soundtrack released in July 1997 and acclaimed both in Japan and abroad, this piece is used in the film’s key, moving scenes.

Using it for a wedding ceremony or reception will undoubtedly make the start of your new life even more wonderful.

Stand AloneHisaishi Joe5rank/position

Stand Alone

“Stand Alone” is a piece by Joe Hisaishi that resembles a grand historical epic, composed as the theme song for the drama “Saka no Ue no Kumo,” which portrays the turbulent era of modern Japan.

The lyrics, imbued with words expressing Japan’s spirit of independence and enterprising ambition, evoke the policies of the Meiji government and the history of Japan’s subsequent development.

Released as the main theme for an NHK special drama, it moved the hearts of many viewers.

In the scene where a friend gives a speech with this song playing, the couple’s hopes for the future and the guests’ warm blessings will merge into one, enveloping the moment in a deeply moving atmosphere.

Oriental WindHisaishi Joe6rank/position

Oriental Wind Joe Hisaishi

Alongside Taro Hakase’s “Manzanka,” this is a popular piece for traditional Japanese wedding attire scenes.

Many people may recognize it from the Suntory Iyemon commercial.

As the title suggests, the piece has a grand sense of Eastern ambience, and its distinctly Japanese, gentle melody is memorable.

While Joe Hisaishi’s works are often favored as background music for conversation, this one is also recommended as an entrance song.

Porco e Bella～Ending～Hisaishi Joe7rank/position

Porco Rosso Porco e Bella - Ending Joe Hisaishi Porco Rosso Porco e Bella - Ending Joe Hisaishi

A beautifully crafted piece whose delicate, emotional melody seems to symbolize the story’s conclusion, exquisitely expressing the complex feelings of Porco and Fio.

Used as the ending theme of the film Porco Rosso, this work is beloved not only by Studio Ghibli fans but also by a wide audience.

Its graceful, moving melody is a hallmark that further enhances the film’s world.

It’s also perfect for wedding performances and reception BGM, providing music that colors the couple’s most touching moments and elegantly sets the tone for a once-in-a-lifetime wedding.