Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for ‘Solo Leveling’ Fans
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Tokyo Tower's Hunter Association Headquarters
Tokyo Tower, standing tall in Minato's Shibakoen district, holds a special place in the hearts of "Solo Leveling" fans. While a recognizable symbol of Tokyo, the tower is frequently depicted in various anime, including "Solo Leveling", where it's imaginatively portrayed as the Hunter Association's headquarters. This fictional association adds another layer to the tower's allure, allowing visitors to connect with the anime's storyline in a tangible way. The tower itself offers a breathtaking panorama of the city, but for those immersed in the anime world, the connection to the Hunter Association deepens the experience. This intriguing combination of real-world landmark and fictional setting has made Tokyo Tower a compelling destination for anyone wanting to explore Japan's vibrant pop culture scene.
Tokyo Tower, a structure inspired by the Eiffel Tower, reaches a height of 333 meters, making it the second tallest in Japan. The decision to surpass the Eiffel Tower by a mere 13 meters is intriguing, hinting at a mix of admiration and healthy competition. Initially built in 1958 as a television broadcasting antenna, it sports a distinctive orange and white paint scheme—a deliberate choice to satisfy air traffic safety standards.
The tower features two observation platforms at 150 and 250 meters, a design choice that provides different views of Tokyo's skyline and surroundings, improving the overall visitor experience. It also boasts a unique design—a hollow core—which is engineered to withstand strong winds. This innovative structure tackles the challenges of building tall towers in areas with potentially harsh weather, showcasing the advanced engineering techniques used in its construction.
At the base of Tokyo Tower lies a small park filled with a variety of trees. This green space serves a dual purpose, providing a relaxing environment while also aiding in natural cooling of the tower, highlighting the potential for urban structures to coexist with nature. Tokyo Tower played a crucial role in early Japanese broadcasting. It pioneered the "live broadcast" transmission system, overcoming the hurdle of achieving clear TV signals. This represents a significant early leap in broadcast technology.
In 1993, the Tower further embraced the evolving communication landscape by introducing a two-way data transmission system, anticipating future advancements in digital communication. This underlines the constantly evolving needs of urban environments and infrastructure. The structure’s design includes a remarkable 4,000 tons of steel. This substantial weight is carefully distributed to withstand earthquakes, a critical design element for a structure located in a seismically active region.
Tokyo Tower receives around 2.5 million visitors annually. Such high visitor numbers necessitate continuous evaluations of visitor management to enhance the overall operational efficiency and visitor safety. Lastly, the Tower's lighting system features over 100 different color shades, changing with the seasons and special events. This highlights the role of aesthetics in modern structures and how lighting can impact the urban environment and people's feelings.
What else is in this post?
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Tokyo Tower's Hunter Association Headquarters
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Jeju Island's Mysterious Stone Statues
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Roppongi's Underground Fight Club Scene
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Akihabara's Gaming Arcades and Anime Shops
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Osaka's Dotonbori District for Late-Night Snacks
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Mount Fuji's Shadow Monarch Training Ground
- Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Yokohama's Minato Mirai for Futuristic Cityscapes
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Jeju Island's Mysterious Stone Statues
Jeju Island, a destination celebrated for its beautiful scenery and unique cultural identity, is also the home of the intriguing Dol Hareubang, often referred to as "grandfather stones." These stone statues, believed to have protective powers against malevolent spirits, hold a significant place within the island's cultural fabric and are a testament to Jeju's artistic heritage. Their origin story remains largely unknown, which only increases their captivating aura and cultural significance. Interestingly, Jeju Island and the Dol Hareubang are featured in the widely popular anime series "Solo Leveling," serving as a vital element in the character development and plotline. This adds another layer of interest for anime fans looking to experience the island's beauty and mystique. The intersection of real-world legends and fictional narratives enriches the travel experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Jeju's captivating landscape and its rich folklore.
### Jeju Island's Mysterious Stone Statues
1. **Guardian Statues:** The Dol Hareubang, often called "grandfather stones," are prominent symbols of protection and guardianship across Jeju Island. Their presence seems to be intended to ward off negative energies or influences, a common theme in many cultures.
2. **Enigmatic Origins:** The origins of these stone statues remain shrouded in mystery, adding to their cultural significance. While we have some ideas, the exact reasons for their creation and the inspiration behind their unique forms are still debated among researchers.
3. **Evil Spirit Deterrent:** It's widely believed that the Dol Hareubang were created with the purpose of repelling evil spirits. This aligns with a traditional belief system where physical objects can act as a barrier against harmful forces.
4. **"Solo Leveling" Connection:** Jeju Island features prominently in the "Solo Leveling" anime series. Specifically, an S-Rank Gate appears on the island four years prior to the main plot, making it a crucial location in the story.
5. **A Pivotal Arc:** The Jeju Island arc in "Solo Leveling" is a cornerstone of the series, offering thrilling action sequences and contributing significantly to the overall narrative. It's a critical part of understanding the world's events and the development of main characters.
6. **Formal Recognition:** The term "Dol Hareubang" received official recognition from the Jeju Cultural Property Committee in 1971. Prior to this, the term was used more casually, indicating the statues' long-standing presence and importance in the local culture.
7. **Character Development:** The Jeju Island arc is instrumental in shaping the character arc of Jinwoo, the protagonist of "Solo Leveling." It reveals aspects of his abilities and personality that propel him further into his role as a powerful hunter.
8. **Diversity of Forms:** The Dol Hareubang statues exhibit variations in size and style, showcasing the creativity and artistry of the local culture. There is no single form and each statue provides a unique perspective into the cultural history of the island.
9. **Storyline Influence:** "Solo Leveling" uses Jeju Island as a crucial setting, influencing both the narrative and the development of key characters. This strategic use of a real-world location adds depth and intrigue to the fictional universe.
10. **A Popular Travel Destination:** Jeju Island is renowned for its unique natural beauty and its distinctive cultural heritage. This combination has made it a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the island's captivating landscapes and unique cultural offerings.
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Roppongi's Underground Fight Club Scene
Roppongi's underground fight club scene exists in the shadows of the district's more well-known attractions, offering a raw and thrilling experience for those who seek it out. These clandestine venues, often hidden from the glitz and glamour of the mainstream nightlife, provide a stark contrast to the polished image Roppongi often projects. Here, fighters clash in intense, unsanctioned matches, catering to a niche audience drawn to the adrenaline rush and raw athleticism. The atmosphere is gritty and unrestrained, reflecting a more primal side of competition.
While Roppongi is famed for its high-end restaurants, chic bars and the panoramic views from its skyscrapers, this hidden fighting world presents a different facet of the city's energy. This subculture attracts those who appreciate the gritty spirit of underground fights, a feeling that aligns with the theme of underdog stories prevalent in anime like "Solo Leveling". Exploring this less-polished side of Roppongi can enhance a traveler's understanding of Tokyo's diverse culture. It's a glimpse into a different reality, one that may not be advertised, but can be an exciting and memorable aspect of any visit.
### Surprising Facts About Roppongi's Underground Fight Club Scene
1. **Geographic Clustering**: Roppongi, a well-known Tokyo entertainment district, has a surprisingly high concentration of underground fight clubs. These clubs, often hidden behind ordinary storefronts or tucked away in private spaces, seem to thrive in close proximity, creating a localized, almost self-contained, combat community.
2. **Fusion of Fighting Styles**: The fights themselves often display a fascinating mix of martial arts techniques. Fighters blend everything from Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai to traditional Japanese disciplines. This diverse range of styles mirrors Roppongi's international character, blending fighting traditions from various parts of the world into a single, unique underground scene.
3. **Encrypted Recruitment**: It's not surprising that the recruitment for these fights is kept discreet. The organizers tend to rely on encrypted messaging apps and private social media groups to attract participants. This approach adds a layer of secrecy and exclusivity, making it hard for outsiders to casually stumble into these events.
4. **Unexpected Corporate Ties**: An interesting aspect of this scene is that some of these fight clubs manage to attract sponsors from the fitness and sporting goods sector. This means some traditionally illegal activities are being subtly commercialized. It raises intriguing questions about how the boundaries of legality and profit intertwine in this niche world.
5. **Health and Safety Concerns**: The lack of strict regulation that typically surrounds organized sport in Japan also impacts this underground scene. Participants often fight without the same level of medical checks and oversight as in officially sanctioned competitions. This raises concerns about the potential for injuries and a lack of proper medical care in the event of serious issues.
6. **Social Perception**: The underground fight club culture exists in a rather complex relationship with mainstream Japan. While traditional martial arts are widely respected, street fighting often carries a negative stigma, associating it with criminality and recklessness. This creates a distinct sense of counterculture among those involved in these events.
7. **The Potential for Organized Crime**: There's growing concern about the presence of Yakuza, Japanese organized crime, in some of these Roppongi fight clubs. Reports suggest that a few of the underground operations might be linked to these groups, raising safety concerns for those who participate or spectate.
8. **Psychological Undercurrents**: The appeal of underground fighting isn't limited to physicality. It taps into deeper psychological needs. Participants may be drawn in by the thrill, the desire to feel part of a close-knit community, or a longing for a strong sense of personal identity. This craving for a sense of belonging outside typical social norms adds a deeper layer of intrigue to this subculture.
9. **Last-Minute Events**: These fight events often occur with very short notice and minimal external publicity. The organizers rely on word-of-mouth communication, a key part of keeping the scene covert. This unpredictable approach also creates an intense atmosphere of excitement and surprise for both participants and those who watch the fights.
10. **A Paradox of Rules**: Despite the fact that unlicensed fighting is technically illegal in Japan, some of these clubs have judges with extensive experience in martial arts. This presence of expertise means that fights, in a way, are still structured and regulated, even if operating outside the realm of established rules and laws. It’s a fascinating example of how informal structures try to keep order in a world beyond official oversight.
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Akihabara's Gaming Arcades and Anime Shops
Akihabara, a district pulsating with anime and gaming energy in Tokyo, is a haven for enthusiasts. It's filled with a vibrant mix of gaming arcades and specialized anime stores. Places like Club Sega and Otachu provide a unique glimpse into Japan's gaming culture, where classic and modern games share space. The Radio Kaikan, an 11-story building, serves as a central landmark, symbolizing Akihabara's status as a hub for anime and otaku culture.
Beyond the interactive gaming experiences, Akihabara's unique culture spills over into the dining scene, with the famous maid cafes offering a distinct theme-based experience. Visitors can also find guided tours that delve deeper into the area's hidden treasures and popular spots, enhancing their journey through this vibrant district. While it attracts many shoppers, Akihabara is also a potent representation of anime and gaming culture in Japan, making it an essential destination for those fascinated by the world of anime and gaming. It's a journey through a subculture that seamlessly blends retail and entertainment.
Akihabara, a vibrant district in Tokyo, stands as a central hub for Japan's anime, manga, gaming, and technology cultures. It's a fascinating place that offers a unique blend of old and new, traditional and futuristic. The area is a haven for gamers, with a remarkable concentration of over 100 arcades, such as Club Sega and Otachu. These arcades demonstrate Japan's passion for gaming, providing opportunities to experience a wide array of games, from nostalgic classic cabinets to state-of-the-art virtual reality experiences. One trend that stands out is the proliferation of dating simulators, hinting at how some people utilize virtual worlds to explore relationships.
Radio Kaikan, an iconic 11-story building, has become a landmark and a symbolic center for anime and "otaku" culture, signifying the strong influence of these elements on the district's identity. In this mix of entertainment and technology, Yodobashi Camera, a gigantic electronics superstore, dedicates an entire floor to cameras, showcasing a broad range of popular brands like Canon, Nikon, and Sony.
The district is also sprinkled with numerous anime shops, like Animate, Kotobukiya, and Mandarake Complex. In these shops, enthusiasts can find a vast selection of anime-related items, from figurines and manga to vintage collectibles and the ubiquitous "gashapon" capsule toys. This variety caters to a wide array of collector preferences and illustrates the enduring popularity of anime and manga in Japan.
Another unique aspect of Akihabara's culture is the maid café. These establishments offer a rather unconventional dining experience, blending traditional Japanese service with the themes of anime and gaming. It is interesting to see how concepts like creating a familiar atmosphere are utilized to influence visitor behavior and create return visits.
Exploring Akihabara's arcade scene for the first time might prove a bit challenging. It takes time to figure out the variety of games available, especially the immersive experiences that virtual reality technologies offer. The experience can vary widely, so some navigation and discovery is part of the process.
Overall, Akihabara stands out as a unique area. Its blend of electronics stores, game arcades, anime merchandise, and a post-WWII history results in a truly unique atmosphere. This mix of old and new, high-tech and pop culture elements gives visitors an insight into the dynamism of Japan's entertainment and technology landscape. Its enduring appeal comes from its ability to fuse elements of tradition and modernity, presenting a compelling experience for those interested in gaming, anime, and the overall spirit of Japanese pop culture.
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Osaka's Dotonbori District for Late-Night Snacks
Osaka's Dotonbori district is a vibrant area known for its energetic nightlife and wide range of dining options that cater to late-night cravings. The district's streets are filled with a lively buzz, making it an ideal place to soak up the local culture and enjoy a variety of culinary experiences. Dotonbori offers a range of Osaka's best dishes, from the classic Tonkatsu at Kimukatsu, priced reasonably between 1,200 to 1,600 yen, to local favorites like Akashiyaki and different types of sushi. The abundance of street food stalls adds to the exciting atmosphere, offering tasty bites like kushikatsu skewers and takoyaki dumplings. Kinryu Ramen, easily recognized by its dragon-shaped sign, is another popular choice, appreciated by tourists and locals alike.
Adding to the unique atmosphere are landmarks such as the giant Glico running man billboard, a quintessential image of the district, and the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, providing breathtaking views from its 15-minute ride for a modest 600 yen. While the area is pedestrian-friendly and invites leisurely exploration, visitors should be mindful of increased transportation costs later in the evening. The diverse culinary scene, vibrant ambiance, and easy access from other parts of Osaka make Dotonbori a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Osaka's energetic and flavourful late-night culture. It's a destination that perfectly complements the anime-themed adventures that "Solo Leveling" fans can immerse themselves in throughout their Japanese journey.
### Surprising Facts About Osaka's Dotonbori District for Late-Night Snacks
1. **A Culinary Tapestry**: Dotonbori stands out as a food-focused district, boasting an unusually high concentration of restaurants, potentially over 600 per square mile. It's fascinating how this concentration leads to intense competition and constant experimentation in cuisine.
2. **Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki**: The area is known for dishes like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. However, it's intriguing that the texture and taste of okonomiyaki vary quite a bit between vendors. This suggests that minor differences in the way it’s cooked and the ingredients used can greatly impact the overall taste.
3. **Neon's Influence**: The vibrant neon signs that light up Dotonbori aren't just decorative. There's research suggesting that well-lit areas can lead to a notable increase in spending by people, perhaps due to the feeling of safety and liveliness they convey.
4. **A Legacy of Late-Night Eats**: Dotonbori has a history as an entertainment and dining hub that stretches back to the Edo period. This offers a fascinating window into how the district has changed and adapted to evolving cultural preferences, always with food at the heart of it.
5. **Food Safety and Standards**: It's interesting that Osaka’s street food scene is subject to rigorous hygiene checks. The public hygiene ratings give consumers a better sense of how safe each vendor is, leading to higher standards overall.
6. **The Glico Man and Energy Efficiency**: The Glico Man sign is a well-known Dotonbori symbol. But did you know that it’s made with energy-efficient LED lights? This shows how technical progress can influence the aesthetic elements of a place while also having environmental benefits.
7. **Food Tourism Hub**: Dotonbori attracts a large number of visitors each year—around 50 million. This large number of people shows the powerful role that late-night dining can play in drawing people and boosting a local economy.
8. **Flavor Innovation**: Street vendors in Dotonbori are quite open to trying new flavors. They often mix and match traditional dishes with ingredients like matcha or chocolate. This creative fusion of tastes is a great example of how food culture is evolving on a global scale.
9. **Michelin's Presence**: Several restaurants in Dotonbori have earned Michelin stars, which is remarkable. This shift shows how this food scene has matured from basic street food to a destination for more high-end and sophisticated dining experiences.
10. **A Culinary Melting Pot**: The late-night eating culture in Dotonbori is interesting because it combines traditional Japanese cuisine with influences from other places around the world. It's fascinating to see how this blend of cuisines shows Dotonbori as a place where different cultures come together.
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Mount Fuji's Shadow Monarch Training Ground
Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan, provides a stunning backdrop for "Solo Leveling" fans seeking a connection to the anime's world. The Fujisan region, where the fictional Shadow Monarch Training Ground is situated, blends natural beauty with opportunities for adventure. Visitors can challenge themselves on various trails up Mount Fuji, gaining different perspectives of its iconic form. The Fuji Five Lakes area is a good addition to the trip, as it provides fantastic views of the mountain, offering moments of calm amidst the more challenging aspects of a Mount Fuji trip. The area surrounding Mount Fuji also offers various attractions, enriching the visit beyond just the mountain itself. This interplay of anime inspiration and the captivating allure of Mount Fuji makes it an intriguing destination for any fan of "Solo Leveling" interested in exploring Japan's scenic landscapes. Mount Fuji has always played a significant role in Japanese culture and art, so it's not surprising that it features in anime. It certainly adds an interesting layer to the destination for fans. This destination gives you a chance to combine nature and a bit of fantasy, making it an exciting addition to a trip to Japan.
### Surprising Facts About Mount Fuji's Shadow Monarch Training Ground
1. **Geographical Significance**: Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak at 3,776 meters, is a stratovolcano with a captivating history. Formed by numerous eruptions over a long period, it's a fascinating example for researchers investigating how volcanoes evolve and interact with the surrounding landscape.
2. **Historical Importance**: The area surrounding Mount Fuji has been a place of pilgrimage for a very long time. The Fuji Five Lakes region has drawn travelers for both spiritual and recreational purposes, making it a fascinating blend of nature, tradition, and human experiences.
3. **Unique Ecosystem**: The training ground area features a distinct ecosystem where plant life changes as you climb higher. This arrangement offers a fascinating look into how plants adapt to changes in the environment, especially regarding differing climates and soil.
4. **Elevation Impact**: The thinner air at higher elevations, especially around Mount Fuji, impacts human performance. Research suggests that less oxygen can limit our physical capabilities, creating conditions similar to those used in high-altitude sports training.
5. **Cultural Legacy**: Mount Fuji has appeared in over 3,500 different works of art, from old woodblock prints to modern forms of media. This shows how deeply embedded the mountain is in Japanese culture, connecting it to people through various artistic expressions.
6. **Seismic Activity**: Although considered dormant now, Mount Fuji sits in a seismically active area. Examining its past and its relationship with other geological forces helps us understand its potential future behavior and consider the safety of the surrounding communities.
7. **Accessibility Measures**: Many paths leading to the top of Mount Fuji have been carefully designed with safety in mind. There are strategically located resting areas, highlighting the interesting way humans try to make nature accessible while considering safety aspects for people with different physical capabilities.
8. **Weather Variability**: The weather near Mount Fuji can change drastically over short distances. The change in temperature and rainfall with altitude creates diverse weather patterns, leading to sudden shifts that can be challenging for visitors and climbers.
9. **Culinary Influence**: The area around Mount Fuji is renowned for its unique dishes, often using local ingredients like Fujinomiya Yakisoba. These foods reflect the local culture and provide a tangible way to experience the flavors associated with the mountain's environment.
10. **Symbolic Significance**: Mount Fuji isn't just a natural landmark. It represents Japan's resilience, beauty, and cultural heritage. Its imposing presence can inspire deep reflection, much like character development in "Solo Leveling." Visitors can possibly draw inspiration from its magnificent stature in much the same way that characters gain strength through challenges.
Top 7 Anime-Inspired Travel Destinations in Japan for 'Solo Leveling' Fans - Yokohama's Minato Mirai for Futuristic Cityscapes
Minato Mirai, nestled within Yokohama, perfectly embodies a futuristic urban landscape that reflects Japan's journey of urban development. This area, once occupied by industrial infrastructure, has seen a remarkable transformation since the mid-20th century. Today, it stands as a dynamic fusion of contemporary architecture and its historical roots. A prime example of this is the Yokohama Landmark Tower, a marvel of structural design. It boasts the world's second-fastest elevators, providing a rapid ascent to the Sky Garden observation deck. From here, you're rewarded with expansive views of the entire city, a truly stunning experience.
Minato Mirai also features attractions like the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel, an iconic addition that contributes to the area's distinct futuristic aesthetic. These elements, alongside its broader context, clearly indicate Yokohama's cosmopolitan outlook and how it embraces both the old and the new. A testament to Yokohama’s ambition, Minato Mirai also showcases the city’s drive to blend historical context and its future vision on the world stage. This blending of eras certainly makes it an engaging destination for anyone who appreciates anime’s portrayal of advanced societies.
### Surprising Facts About Yokohama's Minato Mirai for Futuristic Cityscapes
1. **Modern Architectural Styles**: Minato Mirai showcases some of Japan's most striking modern architectural designs, including the Landmark Tower. This tower's unique features include a sky garage concept, which is a clever way to manage parking space in an area with limited ground level room.
2. **A Reimagined Waterfront**: The area went from primarily being used for warehousing and rail operations to a modern, highly urbanized district. This massive shift that took place particularly after the early 1980s is a fascinating example of the economic forces that have driven changes in many Japanese cities.
3. **Varied Transportation Access**: Reaching Minato Mirai is easy with options like the underground Minato Mirai Line. The emphasis on designing easy access to the area through well-planned public transport is likely intended to minimize traffic congestion at street level while making it easy for people to move around.
4. **Vertical City Planning**: Minato Mirai is a great example of how vertical city planning works. Skyscrapers that have a mix of different uses are intended to maximize the area's limited space. It's a great example of how to deal with limited land while also trying to avoid urban sprawl.
5. **Urban Greenery and Air Quality**: Research suggests that Minato Mirai has better air quality than you might expect for a densely populated area. The extensive use of trees and other plantings across the area can lead to noticeable positive changes in air quality. It's a surprising reminder that careful urban design can have unexpected benefits on air quality.
6. **Green Roofs as Urban Solutions**: Many buildings, including the Yokohama Museum of Art, utilize green roofs. These can help with regulating water runoff, provide some insulation, and even offer benefits for biodiversity in an otherwise urban area. It's an ingenious application of nature within an urban environment.
7. **Sea Defenses for a Vulnerable Area**: The waterfront part of Minato Mirai is protected by sophisticated seawalls that are built to withstand earthquake and tsunami threats. The engineering is a clear reflection of the practical need for structures that can withstand the seismic activity that Japan experiences regularly.
8. **Centralized Entertainment and Culture**: The concentration of places like museums, theatres and shopping areas seems to be a conscious effort to create a focal point for culture and entertainment within the district. This emphasis on social interaction and fostering community appears to be part of the overall design plan.
9. **Modern and Traditional Aesthetics**: Public parks and promenades in Minato Mirai appear to deliberately draw inspiration from Japanese garden design principles. The ability of the designers to blend modern functionality with older aesthetics is a fascinating example of how tradition can influence contemporary design.
10. **Emerging Research Hub**: Minato Mirai is rapidly becoming a center for photonics research with collaborations between research institutions and businesses. The effort to combine cutting-edge research and businesses is an attempt to create an environment that attracts high-tech jobs and keep the region economically active.