An image encoding method is used for encoding a current picture on a block-by-block basis and includes: generating a reference picture list by (i) assigning a reference picture index to a reference picture referable for encoding the current picture and (ii) including the reference picture assigned the reference picture index into the reference picture list; and encoding a current block included in the current picture with reference to a reference picture that is specified, from the reference picture list, for encoding the current block, wherein, when a reference picture belonging to a reference view different from a current view to which the current picture belongs has a chance of being referenced for encoding the current picture, the reference picture belonging to the reference view is added to the reference picture list in the generating.