Yamaguchi was born in Fujieda on September 28, 1944. After graduating from Chuo University, he joined Hitachi (later "Kashiwa Reysol") in 1967. In 1972, the club won the champions at Japan Soccer League and Emperor's Cup. The club also won 1975 Emperor's Cup. He retired in 1975. He played 121 games and scored 15 goals in the league. He was selected Best Eleven for 7 years in a row (1968-1974).