Naoaki Ishihara, widely known by his nickname “Takenoko,” is a Japanese professional poker player who has carved out a reputation as a specialist in fast-paced tournament formats across the Asian circuit. Often seen competing in major festivals in the Philippines and Japan, he is recognized for his high frequency of final table appearances in specialized side events.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings stand at $19,987. Ishihara has experienced a significant surge in results throughout the 2025 season, particularly during his campaigns at the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT ) in Manila.

His tournament resume is highlighted by several titles and podium finishes:

• APPT Manila (July 2025): 1st place in the PHP 100,000 + 50,000 High Roller Super Knockout.
• APPT Manila (July 2025): 3rd place in the PHP 15,000 + 30,000 Survivor Knockout for PHP 170,000 (∼$2,995).
• APPT Manila Championship (March 2025): 1st place in the Win The Button – Hyper Turbo for PHP 86,500 (∼$1,517).
• APPT Manila (July 2025): 8th place in the PHP 15,000 Megastack for PHP 81,000 (∼$1,410).
• APT Taipei (2024): Secured multiple deep runs, including a 13th-place finish in the NT$ 5,000 Tick Tock BOOM! for NT$ 11,000 (∼$348).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Ishihara has become a “road warrior” in the Southeast Asian poker scene, frequently traveling to major hubs like Manila and Taipei to compete in international festivals. While he initially built his experience in the Japanese domestic circuit, his transition to the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) and Asian Poker Tour (APT) has seen him evolve into a consistent trophy hunter. His status in the Japanese poker community is reinforced by his active presence in the Global Poker Index (GPI) rankings, where he is currently positioned as a rising mid-stakes professional.

Play Style & Strategy

Ishihara is recognized for his mastery of high-intensity tournament dynamics, specifically excelling in Knockout, Hyper Turbo, and Win The Button structures. These formats require a high degree of mathematical precision and the ability to make rapid, exploitative decisions under pressure. His victory in the High Roller Super Knockout demonstrates a sophisticated strategy for bounty accumulation and a composed approach to short-handed final table play. His ability to adjust his range based on varying bounty values and rapidly increasing blinds makes him one of the most dangerous side-event specialists on the circuit.