A community space in Muroran, Hokkaido, is connecting residents with others on the island who hail from countries as diverse as Thailand, Canada, South Korea and the United States.

Once a month, they gather to take part in a so-called English Night where they can interact with English teachers working at public schools in Muroran and neighboring Noboribetsu, as well as international students at the Muroran Institute of Technology.

The group, which has about 20 members, meets at the community space in an area named Takasagocho. Named Tanne, the space can be found just past the Katatsumuri confectionery shop as you head toward the institute.