Yamashita was born in Fukuoka on November 21, 1977. After graduating from Higashi Fukuoka High School, he joined J1 League side Avispa Fukuoka in 1996. He played many matches from first season. However the club relegated to J2 League in 2001 and he moved to Vegalta Sendai. However the club relegated to J2 in 2003 again and he moved to Kashiwa Reysol in 2004. However his opportunity to play decreased. He also played in Omiya Ardija on loan in 2005. He moved to Japan Football League club Tochigi SC in 2007 and FC Ryukyu in 2008. He retired end of 2010 season.