I ask because from all that I've read, foreigners take even generations to feel comfortable and accepted in Japan. What's the permanent residency a path towards, for most?
I do. It's a "sweet spot" place to live. No threat of violence from law enforcement, significantly reduced threat of violence from the general population, extremely high standard of living, and the country is well-positioned as a base of operations for travel or business across most of Asia. Also, despite some high expenses compared to America, it's a great place to own a sports car if that is a major hobby (and it is for me). Many of the happiest people I know are Western expats in Japan who are small-business owners. It's important to disconnect from the "Japanese corporate wage slave" or "English teacher" life experiences. I'll never back to the US if I can avoid it.
Do you feel you've gotten to "neighbor acceptance" level of integration? Or do you seek to achieve that?
You'll always be "the gaijin" but most people are friendly. I had some good experiences in Thailand as well, having just the right physical features to kinda blend in as long as I didn't open my mouth. But that's a longer story...
this is interesting - could you elaborate? I would have assumed the opposite, but I guess you don't live in a heavily dense urban area?
Permanent residency is mostly thought of as a relief from the stress of having to re-apply for visa extensions and not relying on having a job.
Until you get PR, you could be forced to leave Japan if you lose your job and don't find a new one right away.