Popular Ghibli Songs Ranking [2025]

contrailYumi Matsutoya57rank/position

[Even Beginners Can Play] “Hikoukigumo” (The Wind Rises) Easy Piano Arrangement • With Do-Re-Mi Notation • Slow • One-Finger • Right Hand Only • Also for Both Hands • Sheet Music Available

Yumi Arai’s classic “Hikoukigumo” is also well known as the theme song for the film The Wind Rises.

It is said to have been written after the death of one of Arai’s elementary school classmates, who had been battling a serious illness.

Rather than dwelling on sorrow, the melody conveys a forward-looking hope, as if wishing for happiness in heaven.

Its range is fairly wide and the rhythm somewhat intricate.

However, since the accompaniment keeps repeating the same rhythm within a narrow range, once you’ve mastered the right hand, playing with both hands is within reach.

Don’t just read the score—try humming the tune as you go to internalize the rhythm.

motherAzumi Inoue58rank/position

Okaasan / Azumi Inoue — from the Studio Ghibli “My Neighbor Totoro” Soundtrack Collection — Studio Ghibli Music [NacoTomo One-Take Dojo]

A song that gently and warmly portrays the deep bond between mother and child.

Azumi Inoue’s clear, translucent voice truly resonates in the heart.

The lyrics, expressing gratitude and love for a mother from a child’s perspective, are sure to touch many people.

Released in August 2004, this piece was created as an image song for the film “My Neighbor Totoro.” The simple and beautiful arrangement of piano and strings enhances the emotions in the lyrics.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to express gratitude to their parents at a wedding, or for anyone who cherishes family bonds.

Love is a flower, and you are its seed.Amanda McBroom59rank/position

[Beginner-Friendly] The Rose (Only Yesterday) – Easy Piano Arrangement with Do-Re-Mi Notes, Slow Tempo, One-Finger, Right-Hand Only, or Both Hands

Many people were likely moved by the deeply resonant vocals that play over the ending of the film “Only Yesterday.” The song is widely known through Bette Midler’s performance and won a Golden Globe in 1980.

While comparing love to harsh things like a river and a knife, it ultimately portrays it as a hopeful flower—a truly wonderful, universal message.

The melody line is exceptionally beautiful, so even with simple accompaniment, you can fully savor the warm world the piece embodies.

The key is a relaxed tempo, playing the melody with tenderness.

By putting your heart into each and every note, you’ll create a rich performance that resonates deeply with listeners.

I stopped being alone.Akiko Yano60rank/position

I’ve stopped being all alone (from “My Neighbors the Yamadas”)...

The theme from “My Neighbors the Yamadas” is performed here in a lovely piano arrangement.

I’ve previously introduced an orchestral version, but when this gentle depiction of everyday life is rendered on piano, it becomes even more immersive, like being drawn into a world of memories.

Everyday life is something everyone has, and it’s unique to each person—not measured by anyone else’s standards.

Yet when the everyday life that must have been mine is shown as images, a quiet feeling of “this is somehow nice” arises.

This piano version touches many people’s heartstrings and will surely brighten the listeners’ everyday lives.

Memories rush pastAzumi Inoue61rank/position

Memories Race Through / Azumi Inoue

This is the song “Omoide ga Kakenuketeiku,” the image song for Kiki’s Delivery Service.

It’s sung by Azumi Inoue, who is known for iconic Ghibli songs like “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Carrying You.” It’s a very stylish track with an urban vibe! The theme is “meeting an old friend.” Why not give it a listen on your way to a class reunion?

Take Me Home, Country RoadsJohn Denver62rank/position

John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads (Official Audio)

This is a song that appears in Whisper of the Heart.

It’s the original “Country Roads.” It brings to mind the scene where Shizuku Tsukishima and Seiji Amasawa are smiling as they sing.

The story portrays the pure hearts of high school students, and when I listen to this song, I feel energized and ready to do my best again starting tomorrow.

#Ghibli Jazz #Studio Ghibli cafe music cover! Perfect for work or studying!!63rank/position

#GhibliJazz #CafeMusic – Relaxing Jazz & Bossa Nova Music – Studio Ghibli Cover

A collection of beloved Ghibli songs enjoyed through comfortable jazz arrangements.

It’s a captivating playlist where nostalgia and freshness coexist.

Released in July 2008, this set of tracks has been highly praised not only by Ghibli fans but also by jazz enthusiasts.

It’s popular as background music for work and perfect for a leisurely time at a café.

Listening to this album while savoring a delicious cup of coffee might make you feel as if you’ve wandered into the world of Ghibli.

Even those unfamiliar with Ghibli anime will surely discover new appeal by experiencing these soothing melodies.