I have not tried it this software but if you read Steve Nisons two books you should be able to identify most candlestick patterns on MetaStock with ease.
It is not important to remember all patterns in japanese candlesticks. If you stick to remembering the major reversal patterns that will get you though.
You can start off by reading Japanese Candlestick Charting patterns by Steve Nison. Most major reversal patterns are well explained with examples.