Koichi Sugiyama’s Most Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Gallop of a White Horsesugiyama kouichi43rank/position

Gallop of a White Horse

In 1987, when the abbreviation of the Japan Racing Association changed from NCK (for “Nihon Chuo Keiba-kai”) to the now-familiar JRA (Japan Racing Association), the post-parade entrance music was also overhauled.

Different regions used different tracks, and in the Kanto region, the music was composed by Koichi Sugiyama, famous for the Dragon Quest series.

The piece in question is “Hakuba no Gallop” (Gallop of the White Horse).

It was used for many years, until 2008.

It’s a classic that almost makes you feel as if Slimes or Drackies could pop up at any moment, such is its exhilarating mood.

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Murakami Shinpei

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The Mysterious Towersugiyama kouichi44rank/position

Dragon Quest VIII: The Mystic Tower

If you’ve ever played Dragon Quest, the tower interior BGM is probably memorable, isn’t it? Caves and towers are unavoidable, but many people find them a bit scary and aren’t fond of them.

This piece, “Mystic Tower,” is the dungeon BGM used inside towers in Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King, the eighth installment in the Dragon Quest series released in 2004.

While caves and towers often feature eerie or melancholy tracks, this one is comparatively bright and evokes a mystical image of the tower.

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utatane

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Polka of the Tavernsugiyama kouichi45rank/position

[Symphonic Suite] DQ IX Tavern “Polka of the Pub”

Polka at the Tavern debuted in Dragon Quest IX, released for the Nintendo DS in 2009.

It was used in places like Lliam’s Inn, which serves as an early-game base of operations in DQIX.

The most striking element is the handclap sound, giving the piece a lively, invigorating feel.

Taverns have appeared throughout many Dragon Quest titles, and this track is quintessentially Dragon Quest—it brings back memories of entering a town, gathering information, and meeting key figures.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Let out a battle crysugiyama kouichi46rank/position

Letting out a roar — Dragon Quest VIII

This is the track that plays during regular battles in Dragon Quest VIII.

It’s a true fanfare that instantly stirs excitement and tension for the fight to come.

Just hearing the ascending melody at the start conjures up images of the heroes facing off against monsters.

And that bold, triumphant motif that charges into the enemy lines with a roar—how can you not love it? It’s the perfect number for when you want to ignite your fighting spirit or psych yourself up.

Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride – ‘Engaging in the Flames of War’sugiyama kouichi47rank/position

Clashing in the Fires of War - Violent Enemies | Dragon Quest V Battle Theme | Piano | Official Score Book | Dragon Quest | Dragon Quest Piano

A staple battle theme with unwavering popularity in the world of video game music now makes its debut as a piece that shines at piano recitals.

Its powerful performance and tense development have earned strong support, especially among boys.

First released in September 1992 in Dragon Quest V, this work is characterized by a fast tempo at BPM 164 and a 4/4 meter, vividly expressing the forcefulness of its key of C minor.

The tension produced by string tremolos and the brassy, gritty chords of the wind section retains ample appeal even in solo piano form.

The piece has also been performed as a symphonic work and has been taken up by numerous orchestras, including recordings by the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

It’s a perfect choice for those aiming for a dazzling recital performance or seeking to enhance their musical expressiveness.

A tranquil row of housessugiyama kouichi48rank/position

[15-Minute Endurance] Peaceful Row of Houses - Dragon Quest VII (BGM)

A heartwarming piece that plays in the hero’s hometown in Dragon Quest VII: Warriors of Eden.

It conjures up images of a tranquil port town and its rows of houses, filling the player’s heart with peace.

The oboe’s gentle yet faintly wistful melody seems to tell of the importance of a calm everyday life and a deep affection for one’s hometown.

Listening to this piece may bring back nostalgic scenes and gently warm your heart.

Unflinching Couragesugiyama kouichi49rank/position

[15-Minute Endurance] Unyielding Courage -Dragon Quest XI (BGM)-

A rousing piece that colored the battles against monsters in Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age, released in July 2017.

If you’ve played the game, just hearing the intro may bring back sweaty-palmed memories of intense combat.

The resounding brass and driving strings convey a strong will that refuses to give up, even in the face of adversity.

You can enjoy a richer, more full-bodied orchestral sound of this work on the album Symphonic Suite “Dragon Quest XI” Echoes of an Elusive Age.