Howl’s Moving Castle had some of the best music in animated films, but most people think of Joe Hisaishi and his creations for the Hayao Miyazaki films. Most of the ending themes of his movies are always by a separate artist and for Howl’s Moving Castle, it was The Promise of the World, sung by Chieko Baisho and written by the famous poet and translator, Shuntaro Tanikawa. Unfortunately, Tanikawa passed away on 13 November 2024, at the age of 92, as reported by his son, Kensaku Tanikawa.

Sophie and Howl from Howl’s Moving Castle. [Credit: Studio Ghibli]

His touching words of poetry and music were a gem of Japan. His legacy will never be forgotten, especially his contribution to Japanese literature and in terms of music, to Howl’s Moving Castle and the theme of Astro Boy. Shuntaro Tanikawa was a master of free verse and his long career is a testament to his brilliance.