I think you're Ok with a circle of American friends. We're not that bad
I'm in Japan and I have made some friends by joining the volunteer fire fighter group here. I'm sure if I was more social, we might be closer, but if I called a few people up, i'm sure I could find someone to go out with.
I also have a movie buddy (a student's father.) He and I go out and watch action movies at the theater every now and then. I invite him and his family over every now and then for dinner as well. Not much from their end, but if I call them, they come over ...
You might just need to be more aggressive and invite some people out. hopefully, that doesn't mean you have to pay for everyone
