Kawashima was born in Saitama on March 20, 1983. After graduating from Urawa Higashi High School, he joined his local club Omiya Ardija in J2 League in 2001. He played many matches from 2003. In 2004, he moved to J1 League club Nagoya Grampus Eight. However he could not play many matches behind Seigo Narazaki who playing for the Japan national team. In 2007, he moved to Kawasaki Frontale. He became a first choice goalkeeper from first season. Kawasaki also won the 2nd place in the 2008 and 2009 J1 League. In summer 2010, he moved to Belgian Pro League club Lierse and played in 2 seasons. In 2012, he moved to Standard Liège. Although he played as first choice goalkeeper until 2014, he lost his position in 2015 and he left the club end of 2014/15 season. After half year blank, he signed with Scottish Premiership club Dundee United. However the club was relegated to Scottish Championship end of the 2015/16 season. In 2016, he moved to French Ligue 1 club Metz. In 2018, he moved to Strasbourg Alsace.