Yasu grew up in Yamanashi Prefecture, Kofu, Japan. His family runs a shop specializing in watches, glasses, and jewelry. It is also the birthplace of Yasuzo Masumura, a famous film director in Japan.

Yasu initially taught computer skills to locals in Mozambique, Africa as part of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) after completing college. While there, he discovered his interest in making sushi at the request of the local children from Mozambique. Upon returning to Japan, Yasu turned his newfound passion into a profession. He attended the Tokyo Sushi Academy, completed the program, and gained valuable experience working at Ginza Iwa (one Michelin star restaurant) for two years. Later, Yasu joined Plan Do See America and served as the sushi chef at Sushi Azabu in New York and the head sushi chef at The Den in Azabu Miami. During this time, he collaborated with South American chefs to learn about their culture and infused Miami flavors into traditional sushi techniques. In 2020, Yasu and his wife opened their own restaurant, Sushi Yasu Tanaka by Masumura, located in the MIA Market. Masumura was named after Yasu’s family business which will be shutting its doors soon after 125 years. He wanted to cherish the family history.