Muroran is situated in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan. Muroran is one of the leading industrial cities in Hokkaido with a population of approximately 107,000. The main industry is iron and steel manufacturing. Many other modern manufacturing facilities of medium- and small-sized enterprises are also prospering around the Muroran Port. The campus of Muroran Institute of Technology is located in the northeastern part of the city at the foot of Mt. Muroran (911m). Even though Muroran is an industrial city, its air is clean and clear. Rich green surroundings are refreshing and relaxing. The Institute is blessed to have such a favorable environment for teaching and research. Although the winter is long in Hokkaido, the climate in Muroran is fairly moderate. Tourists can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing in summer, and skiing and skating in winter. Furthermore, Muroran is adjacent to Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which offers plenty of sightseeing attractions, such as Lake Shikotsu, Lake Toya, Noboribetsu Hot Springs, Mt. Usu and Mt.Tarumae. Muroran is located about one and a half hours away by express train from Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, and about an hour away by express train from New Chitose Airport, the largest airport in Hokkaido.