Popular Ghibli Songs Ranking [2025]

Message of RougeYumi Matsutoya29rank/position

Yumi Matsutoya – Rouge no Dengon (Yumi Matsutoya Concert Tour The Universe Library 2016-2017)

Yumi Matsutoya’s classic “Rouge no Dengon.” Its nostalgic melody evokes a distinctly Showa-era feeling, doesn’t it? Released in 1975, the song was later used 14 years on, in 1989, as the opening theme for Studio Ghibli’s film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

The vocal range is somewhat wide, from mid1 F# to hi D#, and while the pitch rises and falls fairly intensely toward the end of the chorus, the overall tempo is relaxed and the song builds wonderfully—hence our decision to feature it this time.

againJoe Hisaishi30rank/position

Again – from Studio Ghibli’s film “Spirited Away” – Piano – Level ★★★☆☆ – Beginner to Intermediate

It’s a grand and beautiful piece that plays during the climactic, dreamlike flying scene in the film Spirited Away.

Beginning with a quiet melody and gradually building in emotion, it evokes the hope that lies beyond hardship and the strong bonds with those we hold dear.

A later version with lyrics also exists, expressing a bittersweet yet warm longing for reunion.

This piece was included on the album Spirited Away Soundtrack, released in July 2001.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to bring this sweeping world to life with their own hands.

As you recall the story’s moving moments, aim for a performance that richly shapes dynamics and stirs the hearts of listeners.

Ashitaka and SanJoe Hisaishi31rank/position

Ashitaka and San (Piano · Easy Arrangement for Beginners) Princess Mononoke ashitakatosan/mononokehime

A classic piece by Joe Hisaishi, one of Japan’s most renowned composers, serves as an insert song in the film Princess Mononoke.

Released in July 1997, the film features Hisaishi’s delicate melodies that portray the relationship between nature and humanity.

Beginning with a gentle piano and gradually unfolding into a grand orchestral arrangement, the piece vividly expresses the film’s themes of coexistence with nature and human conflict through music.

Its lyrical melody also symbolizes the complex relationship between the protagonist, Ashitaka, and the heroine, San, resonating deeply with listeners.

Why not try playing this piece on the piano, which beautifully colors the film’s climactic scenes?

Sometimes, old storiesTokiko Kato32rank/position

Sometimes Old Stories - Tokiko Kato - Porco Rosso

This work is characterized by a warm tone that gently evokes memories of youth.

The lyrics, woven with both wistfulness and nostalgia, are said to reflect Tokiko Kato’s own experiences in vivid detail.

After its release in February 1987 on the album “MY STORY/Tokini wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo,” it was later chosen as the ending theme for Hayao Miyazaki’s 1992 film Porco Rosso, leaving a lasting impression on many.

With a simple yet powerful folk-song melody, it’s perfect for introducing friends at weddings or for scenes that look back on memories with someone dear.

Embracing listeners’ hearts and resonating with them, this song has continued to be loved across generations.

Song of TimeAoi Teshima33rank/position

Song of Time (Sigan-ui Norae) Ged’s Saga Aoi Teshima

This is the theme song of Tales from Earthsea, directed and written by Gorō Miyazaki, son of Hayao Miyazaki.

I think many people were moved to tears when this song played in theaters.

Often called “when you think Ghibli, you think Aoi Teshima’s songs,” her voice is truly unique and captivating.

Along with the insert song “Therru’s Song,” it’s one you’ll want to sing at karaoke.

Dragon BoyJoe Hisaishi34rank/position

Spirited Away – Dragon Boy ( Daizo Edit Extended)

From Studio Ghibli’s hugely famous film Spirited Away, this is “The Dragon Boy.” The “dragon” refers to Haku, and the piece is used in the scene where Haku and Chihiro meet and then depart from the bathhouse.

In the film, the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra performs it: a mystical tone born from layered harp and piano leads into flowing horn lines, while the woodwinds stack in perfect fourths to evoke a traditional Japanese atmosphere.

This performance is a longer version than the one in the film, making “The Dragon Boy” even more powerful.

When I was in my first loveAoi Teshima35rank/position

The Little Owl’s Favorite Song: When First Love Began

This song, used as an insert track in From Up on Poppy Hill, is a heart-fluttering tune that, just as the title suggests, depicts the fresh feelings of first love.

Although it’s sung as something in the past, singing it in front of someone you like might just get your feelings across.

Highly recommended!