Back in April I did
CO EWR-NRT BF
UA-NRT-TPE Y
Upon arrival in NRT I was admitted to both UA and ANA clubs.
I guess by virtue of my PC card? and an outbound Star flight?

So without one of these you're screwed if you BF into NRT w/o an outbound Star flight?

Might be the only time I would consider a quick refundable ticket purchase.
Although that is a bit much.