On April 25, 2004, Tanaka debuted for Japan national team against Hungary. After the debut, he played many matches as center back. At 2004 Asian Cup, he played all 6 matches and Japan won the champions. In 2005, he also played many matches including 2006 World Cup qualification and 2005 Confederations Cup. In 2006, he was selected Japan for 2006 World Cup. But he left the team for injury before the World Cup. He played 32 games for Japan until 2006.