Yamada was born in Setagaya, Tokyo on August 24, 1974. After graduating from Komazawa University, he joined J1 League club Verdy Kawasaki (later "Tokyo Verdy") in 1997. He played many matches as right side back from first season. In 1999, he was converted to defensive midfielder and became a regular player. In 2004, the club won the champions in the Emperor's Cup. However the club was relegated to J2 League end of the 2005 season. In 2006, he moved to Cerezo Osaka and played in 1 season. After the blank in half-year, he signed with Yokohama FC in summer 2007 and played as right side back. In 2009, he moved to Sagan Tosu. In 2010, he moved to United States and joined FC Tampa Bay (later "Tampa Bay Rowdies"). After playing for Tampa Bay in 5 seasons, he returned to Japan and played for FC Imabari and Nara Club. He retired end of 2017 season.