I want to learn Japanese. Any ideas where to start?

Yeah, you heard that right! I've been thinking about taking a trip to Japan one of those days. I've always been interested in the Japanese culture and when I'm watching animes and playing some games I always think about how cool/different it must be there.

So, I was thinking about searching Google for some free websites for lessons. I'm not sure if it's the best place to start though... Or I could always go on a chat site and meet a Japanese person there that speaks English or something. At the same time, I could learn about what's going on there and stuff.

Personally, I'd like to read Japanese mostly, but speak it as well would be fun. I guess I'll have to go to a professional linguistic school for that though!

Any of you guys read a bit of Japanese and could help me out?

This post was a limited time offer only... for further information please ask for further infromation... thank you...

Whoa! You found software too. That's awesome! I'll let you guys know how I'm doing in a few weeks, haha! =P

Thanks a bunch!

Cool that you're starting. Check what dude posted, you're sure to find something you can use. Also, I recommend this program, it's not to learn per se but I think it's really important to keep track of the kanji you're learning. It also includes a built in text editor, perfect for typing japanese text on the fly, and a dictionary

http://wakan.manga.cz/?page=download

Anyway, I'm learning Japanese too, and since I was in your situation not too long ago I know how it feels, so don't hesitate to ask me anything, I'll try to help you

Holy crap, this thread is confusing....

Amazing what 2 minutes in google can do... lol

I am learning Japanese as well, but i'm still at the very beggining

^^ google ? why would I search there ?

Sorry... too much time in the internet is making "google" and "finding" synonymes too me...

Where did you found all of this?

I wasn't expecting an answer like this... lol