What situations can reference/recommendation letters from Japanese people be used for?

[TokyoJoeblow]

I have recommendation letters from a former boss, a current boss and one from a long time Japanese private student/good friend.

I know that these letters can be used to help with getting new visas, extensions, permanent residence, citizenship or score a job...but are there other situations where these types of letters would come in handy for any long term foreign residence in Japan?

I know that Japanese people who are friends with foreigners interested in trying to study, work or live in Japan often will write their friend an invitation letter and even act as a guarantor.

 

[jhingy567]

but are there other situations where these types of letters would come in handy for any long term foreign residence in Japan?

yeah, you can stick them on your front door. I think it would reassure the neighbours.

 

[TokyoJoeblow]

yeah, you can stick them on your front door. I think it would reassure the neighbours.

Maybe they would be great for people with tattoos trying to sign up for gym memberships hahaha!

 

[MikeH]

Try to use them next time when a pink salon refuses your entry.

 

[chaztagster]

I don't think anyone has written a generic recommendation for me, except on LinkedIn (which is already pretty focused on career stuff0. I've asked various people to provide references in relation to specific events - e.g. applying for a job, bidding for a project, renting an apartment, etc. What good would a job reference be if it explained that I kept my apartment clean and had good relations with people in the area?