Song(s) from Princess Mononoke. Theme song and insert song(s).
We’ll introduce the main theme and insert songs from Studio Ghibli’s 1997 film Princess Mononoke.
When you think of Princess Mononoke, it’s a moving masterpiece set against a grand natural backdrop, depicting the conflicts among gods, animals, and humans—while the pure feelings of a boy and a girl from different worlds, caring for one another, truly touch the heart.
The film’s tagline is: “Live.”
Many who went to the theater at the time were likely deeply moved to reflect on “the feelings of all who live.”
In this article, we’ll present the memorable music from Princess Mononoke.
Like the film itself, each piece is wonderful and evocative of its iconic scenes!
Song(s) from Princess Mononoke. Main theme and insert songs (1–10)
Princess MononokeYoshikazu Mera
It’s the theme song of Princess Mononoke.
Through this work, it became widely known that Yoshikazu Mera, who sang this piece, is a countertenor—a male singer who sings in a high, female-like register.
It’s a very memorable song with beautifully sustained high notes.
KodamasJoe Hisaishi
This piece accompanies an early scene in the story set in the forest, where the Kodama—forest spirits that only appear in rich, thriving woods—make their appearance.
These characters are indispensable when speaking about Princess Mononoke, and naturally a piano with a warm, woody timbre suits the track perfectly.
It’s a whimsical and charming arrangement that almost lets you hear the Kodama’s rattling “kara-kara-kara” sound.
Women Treading the Tatara - Eboshi Tatara Song -Joe Hisaishi
A song sung by the women working at the tatara furnace.
The lyrics convey how demanding their work is.
It appears as a work song unique to this job, used to keep rhythm during tasks so they can move in perfect sync.
Ashitaka SeikIJoe Hisaishi
An overwhelmingly beautiful piece that plays at key moments, conveying the vastness of the rich natural world where the story unfolds.
Princess Mononoke also portrays the coexistence of nature and humans as one of its themes.
The sheer grandeur expressed in this music is enough to leave you awestruck just by listening.
Ashitaka and SanJoe Hisaishi
In the story’s final scene: the forest restored to beauty, and Ashitaka’s fading scar.
This is the piece that plays in Princess Mononoke when Ashitaka and San begin to walk separate paths.
Though they cannot live together, their bond shines as they choose to live alongside one another.
Vengeful SpiritJoe Hisaishi
This is the piece used in the scene where the Tatari-gami appears in Princess Mononoke.
It’s a track that exudes intense tension and a frightening atmosphere.
Some people might even find themselves glancing around when they listen to it (haha).
That’s how impactful and memorable this piece is.
Princess Mononoke (Instrumental Version)Joe Hisaishi
This song made the biggest impact when it was released as the ending theme of Princess Mononoke.
Yoshikazu Mera’s beautiful high-tone vocals moved listeners around the world.
Its familiar melody enhances the film’s world and sense of presence, and after the emotional experience of the movie, it carries us further into its lingering afterglow.
Since its 1998 release, it has remained a timeless classic no matter how many times we listen.