I think he might be referring more to getting the game and controller than actually playing. Since there was no American release, getting even a mini Pop'n controller can prove to be expensive.
Pop'n is very easy to get started with. The 5-key mode is fun, very accessible, and helps you get used to the controller enough that it makes 9-key a bit easier to swallow.
I'd play Pop'n more, but I need to replace one of the microswitches in the Ransai. The right-most white button is extremely meh. I could try taking all of them apart, checking all of the contacts and metal pieces, and putting it back together, but I've already done that enough times that it's definitely not going to be a long-term fix. :p