Yanagisawa was born in Imizu on May 27, 1977. After graduating from Toyama Daiichi High School, he joined J1 League club Kashima Antlers in 1996. He debuted in May 1996. In 1997, he became a regular player and was selected "Rookie of the Year award". In 1990s, the club won the champions at 1996, 1998 J1 League, 1997 J.League Cup and 1997 Emperor's Cup. In Asia, the club won the 3rd place at 1998–99 Asian Cup Winners' Cup. In 2000, the club won all three major title in Japan; J1 League, J.League Cup and Emperor's Cup. In 2001, the club won J1 League for 2 years in a row and he was selected "Japanese Footballer of the Year award". In 2002, the club won J.League Cup. In June 2003, Yanagisawa moved to Italian Serie A club Sampdoria. He moved to Messina Peloro in 2004.