Popular Ghibli Songs Ranking [2025]

A Town with an Ocean ViewJoe Hisaishi15rank/position

A seaside town (Fingerstyle Guitar) / Yuki Matsui

A celebrated piece by Joe Hisaishi, beloved as an insert song from the Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

It is characterized by a nostalgic atmosphere and classical style that portray the fictional town of “Koriko,” where the story is set.

The latter half unfolds with vibrant energy, skillfully expressing through music the self-growth and challenges of adapting to a new environment, along with the joy and wistfulness felt along the way.

Frequently used as wedding and reception BGM, this work is perfect for creating a warm ambiance.

It’s a heartwarming song befitting a celebration of a new chapter in life.

Path of the WindJoe Hisaishi16rank/position

My Neighbor Totoro Orchestra Stories – 05. The Path of the Wind

The indispensable classic “The Path of the Wind” from Studio Ghibli’s beloved masterpiece My Neighbor Totoro is presented here in an orchestral performance.

This piece is included in “Orchestra Stories: My Neighbor Totoro,” in which composer Joe Hisaishi restructured music from My Neighbor Totoro so it can be enjoyed with narration.

In the original, Hisaishi—then influenced by minimalism—used an electronic sound, but this version becomes a grand orchestral work that brings out the beauty of acoustic instruments.

The sheet music is also available, so students and members of community orchestras who want to enjoy ensemble playing on real instruments might consider giving it a try.

After the introduction, the violin solo is superb, vividly conjuring up images of Japan’s pastoral landscapes.

To That SummerJoe Hisaishi17rank/position

Joe Hisaishi – One Summer’s Day

You can listen to one of Studio Ghibli’s finest masterpieces, “One Summer’s Day” from the film Spirited Away, performed by the composer Joe Hisaishi himself.

The clear tone of the piano and the melody played in a quiet atmosphere instantly draw you into the film’s world.

Although there is no orchestra visible in the footage, the strings and harp gently enter, stirring emotions that overflow with memories of summer in Japan.

Even on the big screen it is a live performance, but when you can see the musicians playing, their expressions and breathing come through even more clearly, and the expression is conveyed all the more.

First workday of the yearJoe Hisaishi18rank/position

[Free Sheet Music] Back to Work Level 2 [Beginner Piano]

This is an unforgettable piece with a buoyant 4/4 rhythm that plays when the protagonist heads out for her very first job in Kiki’s Delivery Service.

A mandolin-like accompaniment intertwines with a charming, flute-like melody, carrying with it the exhilaration of soaring over European cityscapes and a feeling of hope.

The music captures the thrill of taking a new step, and the melody is so approachable that you’ll find it a joy to perform, as if stepping right into the world of the story.

When you play this piece, cherish a light, skipping rhythm.

As you imagine the heroine flying straight through the sky, add expressive nuance to your sound and perform—an ode that has been loved ever since the film’s 1989 release.

Fine On The OutsidePriscilla Ahn19rank/position

[Japan Tour Confirmed] Fine On The Outside / Priscilla Ahn — Theme song of Studio Ghibli’s film “When Marnie Was There”

This is the theme song from When Marnie Was There.

Studio Ghibli works often feature songs by Japanese singers, but listening to a song by an overseas artist changes the image of the work and leaves a different impression.

It’s a track that can calm your heart when you want healing or a slow, relaxing moment.

If I'm wrapped in kindnessYumi Matsutoya20rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – If Wrapped in Kindness (THE LAST WEDNESDAY TOUR 2006 ~HERE COMES THE WAVE~)

A classic by Yumi Matsutoya that was used as the ending theme for the film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Her gentle, warm vocals and melody create a feeling that envelops the listener’s heart.

Released in April 1974, the song is also included on the album MISSLIM and has been beloved for many years.

The lyrics, which sing of the purity of childhood and the wonder of meeting someone special, may offer a different flavor when heard now as an adult.

It’s also a popular choice for wedding BGM and is sure to resonate with both the couple and their guests.

againAyaka Hirahara21rank/position

Again – Ayaka Hirahara

This song is one of the most memorable pieces in Spirited Away.

In the film, an instrumental version without lyrics was used.

However, in this version, the richness of its world seems to further amplify the song’s appeal.

If you sing it at karaoke, you’ll likely be able to sing freely and comfortably in step with this magnificent piece.