Yanagimoto was born in Higashiosaka on October 15, 1972. After graduating from Nara Ikuei High School, he joined Mazda (later "Sanfrecce Hiroshima") in 1991. He played as regular player at right side-back. The club won the 2nd place at 1994 J1 League, 1995 and 1996 Emperor's Cup. In 1999, he moved to his local club Gamba Osaka. He moved to Osaka Prefecture's cross town rivals, Cerezo Osaka in 2003. The club won the 2nd place at 2003 Emperor's Cup. He retired end of 2006 season.