[LMB] OT: AKICOTL: Japanese

[Mark Allums]

This one's for Malfoy, or anyone who knows Japanese.

What is the best way to get started learning Japanese (short of going to 
Japan and immersing oneself)?  I am thinking books and/or audio CDs, 
possibly computerized tutors.  Supplemented by Japanese manga/anime, 
movies, and literature for practice.  Is there a "best" book?  A "best" 
CD or computer program?  Keep in mind, the price needs to be low or 
free; are there any public domain or "open source" resources?  I don't 
have a real live Japanese friend to turn to, so I am forced to rely on 
my own abilities, such as they are.

Any help would be appreciated.

--Mark Allums