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!
- Songs from Castle in the Sky (Laputa): the theme song and insert songs.
- [Ghibli’s Famous Songs Medley] The soothing world of Studio Ghibli that resonates with the heart
- Songs from Spirited Away: theme song and insert songs
- The songs of Tales from Earthsea. Theme song and insert songs.
- Songs of Studio Ghibli: List of Theme Songs, Insert Songs, and BGM from Ghibli Music
- Song(s) from The Tale of the Princess Kaguya. Theme song and insert song(s).
- Song(s) from Princess Mononoke. Theme song and insert song(s).
- Songs from Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. Main theme and insert songs.
- The song from Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. Theme song and insert song.
- Songs from Kiki's Delivery Service. Anime theme and insert songs. Ghibli classics.
- Theme and insert songs of 'Your Name'
- Songs from Whisper of the Heart: theme song and insert songs
- The song from My Neighbor Totoro. Theme song and insert song.
Songs from Howl's Moving Castle. Main and insert songs (21–30)
Magic DoorJoe Hisaishi
The “magic door” plays a very important role in the story—and of course, it’s on the soundtrack too! The track is packed with variety, from bright, popping, catchy melodies to damp, uneasy ones that make you feel a little on edge—all in a single song.
As for what role this mysterious, powerful door plays, be sure to watch the film and find out.
Sophie’s TomorrowJoe Hisaishi
If you want to feel gently positive, I recommend “Sophie’s Tomorrow.” It’s a song filled with hope for the future.
But with Joe Hisaishi, it never ends with hope alone.
There are moments when the unknown makes you feel uneasy, right? Those faint anxieties are woven in beautifully, too.
It’s a charming piece where Sophie, brave enough not to fear the future despite her worries, rides adorably on the piano’s melodies.
Songs from Howl's Moving Castle. Theme songs and insert songs (31–40)
boyJoe Hisaishi
In Howl’s Moving Castle, there’s a small boy named Markl who travels with them.
The song “Boy” is a perfect fit for such a little boy.
Its unpredictable development is just like a young boy’s personality.
The mysterious, mid-tempo sound draws you into the song’s world.
While watching the film, try to see where this track is used.
Mysterious WorldJoe Hisaishi
With a title like “Mysterious World,” don’t you find yourself expecting a dark, demon-realm vibe? But once you hit play, it turns out to be a refreshing track.
The high-register piano melody feels truly mystical, like a pleasant breeze drifting in.
And just when you think you’ve got it pegged, the piano suddenly accelerates toward the latter half, driving forward with a devilish flair.
It’s a standout track I highly recommend listening to straight through, non-stop, to the very end!
Sophie the WandererJoe Hisaishi
“Sasurai” means to wander aimlessly.
Here are some recommended tracks that evoke Sophie’s sense of having no place to belong.
Pay attention to the contrast between the first half, where anxiety is strong, and the latter half, where she gradually starts to look forward.
You’ll be amazed at how clearly you can feel the emotional shift, even though it’s just a very simple, piano-only sound.
In conclusion
How did you like the music from Howl’s Moving Castle? The pieces that vividly bring to mind Sophie bravely facing various hardships draw us in and carry us into a captivating world, even if we haven’t seen the film.
If the music made you curious about Howl’s Moving Castle—or made you want to watch it again—by all means, do!