Songs from Howl's Moving Castle: theme song and insert songs
The world, reminiscent of medieval Europe, is rendered in vibrant colors, and just looking at the depicted towns, mountains, and sea is enough to lift your spirits.
Although the story has a strong fantasy flavor, the other protagonist, Sophie, starts to feel very relatable, and you can’t help but want to cheer her on with a “You’ve got this!”
This article compiles the wonderful pieces of music from Howl’s Moving Castle.
Be sure to read to the end and find your favorite!
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- Songs from Kiki's Delivery Service. Anime theme and insert songs. Ghibli classics.
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Songs from Howl's Moving Castle. Main and insert songs (21–30)
The Curse That Won’t FadeJoe Hisaishi
This is a very quiet, very short track.
It’s a simple soundscape made up almost entirely of short notes, but midway through, a piano descends the scale like steps, oozing with eeriness.
The music doesn’t say much, which all the more underscores the gravity of the “curse that won’t fade.” Wondering what kind of curse that is? Watch the film and see for yourself.
Secret CaveJoe Hisaishi
This track exudes a mysterious atmosphere from start to finish.
True to its title, “Secret Cave,” its grand, otherworldly sound with a sense of depth pairs with a relaxed rhythm for exceptional comfort.
You can feel the unique flow of time that exists only within this cave through the music.
The unpredictable melody and song development are also standout points you won’t want to miss!
EscapeJoe Hisaishi
A track with a powerful, resonant low end that leaves an impact.
You can enjoy the storyline that shifts from a suspicious, mysterious mood in the first half to a hint of hope in the second.
The mid-tempo groove pairs perfectly with the richly varied piano that lays down all kinds of melodies.
The title is “Escape,” so as you listen, try imagining where you’re escaping from.
Vanity and FriendshipJoe Hisaishi
This track takes on two opposing themes: vanity and friendship.
Just when you think the gentle piano tones make for a beautiful sound, it transforms into a melody with a sinister vibe, punctuated by thundering bass.
Don’t you feel the inner struggle between complete opposites? It’s a soundtrack that perfectly matches the film’s content, so be sure to check out the movie as well.
Run!Joe Hisaishi
Among piano sounds, this particular track is bursting with a sense of speed.
The sudden, relentless piano scales will make you want to take off running, without a doubt.
It’s a piece brimming with tension, as if something is chasing you.
The dark melody with its ever-resounding bass grows more unsettling the more you listen.
Don’t you find yourself wondering what they’re running from—and getting curious about the film’s story?
Cheerful Light CavalryJoe Hisaishi
Here’s a perfect song for anyone looking for something uplifting.
A “light cavalry” refers to soldiers used for surprise attacks and disruption, relying on speed and minimal equipment.
You can feel that same lightness in the sprightly melody! The rhythm itself is mid-tempo, but because the notes are packed in tightly, it sounds very fast—highly recommended.
In the rainJoe Hisaishi
Sophie, the protagonist who has found her place as the cleaning lady in Howl’s castle, ends up causing an incident after cleaning the bathroom.
Her cleaning breaks a spell, turning Howl’s beautiful hair black, and he flies into a tantrum.
Truly beautiful and once young herself, Sophie becomes overwhelmed at the sight, rushes out into the rainy night, and bursts into tears.
This piece expresses Sophie’s complex emotions, falling steadily like the rain.
Still, there’s a heartwarming moment when the scarecrow, Turnip-Head, follows her and brings an umbrella.