While in high school and before entering Tokai University train the future champion became the master Yuto Wayama.

He later noted that Shotaro Kubo taught him the spirit of judo, Yuto Wayama passed on the basics of newaza, and Nobuyuki Sato was an example of perseverance for him.

[3] Master Nobuyuki Sato's Style influenced Kashiwazaki's projection tendency through throws and newaza.

Indeed, Isao Okano notes Sato sensei's ability use hikkikomi gaeshi before taking control of your opponent on the ground.

There he met and became friends with the famous photographer Terence Donovan, who trained in the club and with whom they later wrote the book Fighting judo.