The song from Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. Theme song and insert song.
Just seeing or hearing the title makes you want to hum the theme song, doesn’t it?
This time, we’ll be introducing the theme song and insert songs from Hayao Miyazaki’s film Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.
A world that feels real, yet somehow fantastical.
Many of you probably still remember the vividly colorful visuals and the characters, drawn with soft, delicate lines, dashing energetically across the screen.
It’s a collection of music that will surely make you want to watch Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea all over again!
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Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea songs. Theme song and insert songs (21–30)
Fleet MarchJoe Hisaishi
In Ponyo, the sea is portrayed as one vast, singular presence.
Out on that sea, Sosuke’s father, Koichi, works as the captain of a coastal cargo ship.
This powerful piece captures the bold, spirited atmosphere of the fleet, including Koichi’s ship, the Koganeimaru.
The image of the ship forging ahead across the rough waters also seems to reflect Koichi’s dignity as a father.
Ponyo, the fish of the wavesJoe Hisaishi
A track that delivers a sense of speed right from the start.
If you’ve already seen the film, you’ll know the scene where Ponyo runs along with the waves.
This piece is used in that moment.
It’s a depiction of waves that only Hayao Miyazaki could create, so if you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to pay attention! Another highlight is that part of the main theme song is woven into this track.
Song(s) from Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea. Main theme and insert songs (31–40)
GranmamareJoe Hisaishi
Ponyo’s mother is a sea goddess-like being named Granmamare.
Although she appears human, she is far larger than any person, and the sailors who glimpsed her at sea called her “Kannon-sama.” This piece is performed with a gentle, soft, and expansive feel that seems to capture the grandeur and divinity of Granmamare.
The strings’ timbre creates a warm atmosphere, as if one were enveloped by her immense presence.
Night of Shooting StarsJoe Hisaishi
When you hear about a night of shooting stars, what kind of place do you imagine? Perhaps a magical night with a shimmering atmosphere that lets you feel the wonders of nature.
This song captures that very mood.
Its laid-back vibe is a perfect match for nighttime, and the softly contoured, rounded strings and harp create an irresistibly pleasant listening experience—highly recommended!
Lisa's DeterminationJoe Hisaishi
Sosuke’s mother, Lisa, is just like him—cheerful, energetic, and strong! She’s powerful and impulsive, the kind of woman who will unleash a barrage of insults in Morse code when she fights with her husband, Koichi, yet she’s a very loving mother.
This is a calm piece that lets you feel Lisa’s gentle side.
Though she has a tough, resilient side, when she makes a decision as a mother, she feels a certain amount of anxiety deep down.
The melody lets you glimpse that faint anxiety within strong, kind Lisa.
In conclusion
We’ve introduced the main theme and insert songs from “Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.” Even now, the impact of the theme song is incredible.
Since the story centers on very young children, each song is filled with pure, heartfelt emotion—truly moving masterpieces.
If you haven’t seen the film yet, be sure to enjoy it together with the music.