How to learn Japanese
How I did it: I studied it for a year in highschool, so I already new hiragana and katakana. I started regularly listening to japanesepod101.com and I've found I really am an audio-based learner, particularly of languages.
I am still barely an intermediate speaker, but I feel confident that I will continue to practise. There are many kanji, expressions and phrases yet to learn - but I have learned enough to feel I'm on the right track.
Lessons & tips: If you are still in school, take a Japanese language class, particularly just to drill the writing.
Japanesepod101.com works very well for a natural learning style, and offers its podcasts for free. I am a paid member because I also use their Learning Centre to store kanji to practise, do quizes and do written revision of lessons learned. I'm very happy with their programs.
However, I really need to practise speaking with other students or
native speakers. Until then, I just won't feel confident enough.
Resources: japanesepod101.com
jbox.com
