Quote (xzarida @ Nov 18 2010 09:41pm)
Topic?
If you're looking for a place to start, I highly recommend the Genki series(http://www.jbox.com/product/PB888 but this can be found with the workbook/cd's for cheap on eebay etc). I started with those before taking four years of japanese in high school, and these really helped out if there was something I missed in class or if I just didn't get something and didn't have time to ask. The best way, though, is to either find a private tutor(which can be quite costly - I had one at one point that charged $100 USD/hour) or attend classes at a local university.
Also, even though most people will disagree, anime/japanese music & tv are all good ways to immerse yourself in the language as long as you keep in mind that a lot of the dialogue in anime won't actually arise in real life. Kind of like if you've ever watched some cheesy tv show where people talk too proper, or too slangy. The fact remains that whether you're watching anime or not, by simply hearing the language whenever you can, you're improving your listening skills. When I was studying in high school, I had anime/japanese news broadcasts/music going on my ipod every time it was in my ear - even when I slept.
Wherever you choose to start, however, whatever keeps you motivated and interested is the best way.