Johto region
The Johto region is a vibrant and diverse area in the Pokémon world, known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and unique Pokémon species.
Johto is located west of the Kanto region and is connected to it by various routes and the Indigo Plateau.
The region features a variety of environments, including lush forests, expansive plains, rugged mountains, and serene lakes.
The Johto region shares a temperate climate with its neighbor, Kanto, though it tends to be slightly wetter. Johto boasts a more rural landscape compared to Kanto’s urban areas, with abundant water sources to the west and south. While still land-dominated, Johto’s western regions are lush and densely populated.
The modern hub of Goldenrod City stands on the coast, serving as Johto’s technological and economic center. Connected to many smaller towns, Goldenrod thrives due to its central location. To the east, a vast mountain range spans the region, housing Mt. Silver and separating Johto from Kanto. Blackthorn City, nestled amidst these mountains, is famed for its focus on Dragon-type Pokémon training.
Johto is home to eight Gym Leaders, each specializing in a specific Pokémon type. Trainers must defeat these Gym Leaders to earn their respective Gym Badges and qualify for the Pokémon League. Trainers who collect all eight Gym Badges in Johto can challenge the Pokémon League at the Indigo Plateau. Here, they must face the Elite Four and the Champion to prove their skills and become the Johto League Champion.
Initially introduced in Pokémon Gold and Silver, the Johto region expands the Pokémon world with an additional 100 species not found in previous games. It serves as the backdrop for Pokémon Crystal, Pokémon HeartGold, and Pokémon SoulSilver. Trainers embark on their adventure from New Bark Town, where Professor Elm presents them with a choice of Chikorita, Cyndaquil, or Totodile as their starter Pokémon.
Johto is home to several Legendary Pokémon, including the aforementioned Ho-Oh, as well as Lugia, Suicune, Raikou, Entei, and Celebi. These powerful Pokémon play significant roles in the region’s lore and history.
Johto region cities and towns
Johto is dotted with vibrant cities, bustling towns, and quaint villages, each with its own distinct character and charm. From the bustling metropolis of Goldenrod City to the tranquil shores of Olivine City, Johto’s settlements offer diverse experiences for travelers.
New Bark Town
New Bark Town is a quaint and tranquil community nestled in the heart of the Johto region. Situated in the southwestern part of Johto, this idyllic town serves as the starting point for many aspiring Pokémon Trainers embarking on their journey. It is surrounded by lush greenery and serene landscapes, providing a picturesque backdrop for its residents.
At the heart of New Bark Town lies Professor Elm’s Pokémon Laboratory, where the esteemed Pokémon Professor conducts groundbreaking research on Pokémon behavior and habitats. Professor Elm plays a pivotal role in the journey of every Trainer who hails from New Bark Town. Upon receiving their first Pokémon from Professor Elm, Trainers set out to explore Johto’s vast wilderness, train their Pokémon, and embark on a quest to become Pokémon Champions.
Despite its small size, New Bark Town fosters a strong sense of community among its residents (10). Neighbors come together to support one another, celebrate local events, and share their love for Pokémon.
New Bark Town serves as the gateway to adventure for Trainers venturing into the Johto region. From here, Trainers set out on their journey, traversing Johto’s diverse landscapes, challenging Gym Leaders, and unraveling the mysteries of legendary Pokémon.
Cherrygrove City
Cherrygrove City is a charming coastal town located in the southern part of the Johto region.
Situated along the scenic shores of Johto, Cherrygrove City offers stunning views of the ocean and gentle sea breezes that invigorate both locals and visitors alike. The city’s pristine beaches and tranquil coastline provide a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities.
Cherrygrove City is known for its welcoming and close-knit community, where residents (22 in total) take pride in their town’s tranquil ambiance and natural surroundings. Despite its small size, Cherrygrove City boasts several notable landmarks and attractions. The iconic Cherrygrove Pier, stretching out into the sparkling waters, is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts and sightseers.
As one of the first stops for Trainers journeying through Johto, Cherrygrove City serves as a vital waypoint on the path to becoming a Pokémon Champion. Cherrygrove City is equipped with essential facilities such as the Pokémon Center and Poké Mart, providing Trainers with access to healing services, supplies, and valuable information.
Violet City
Violet City is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Johto region, renowned for its rich history, cultural significance, and stunning architectural landmarks. It has 52 residents.
Violet City is steeped in history, with its most prominent landmark being the majestic Sprout Tower. This towering structure serves as a symbol of reverence for the region’s Pokémon traditions and is a sacred site where Trainers come to train and pay homage to the legendary Pokémon Ho-Oh.
Violet City maintains a close connection with the nearby city of Ecruteak, known for its historical significance and traditional architecture. Together, these two cities form a cultural corridor that preserves Johto’s ancient traditions and folklore.
Trainers seeking to test their skills often visit Violet City’s Pokémon Gym, led by the skilled Gym Leader Falkner. Specializing in Flying-type Pokémon, Falkner provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for aspiring Trainers aiming to earn their first Gym Badge.
Azalea Town
Azalea Town is a quaint settlement nestled within the lush forests of the Johto region, known for its rustic charm, tranquil ambiance, and strong ties to nature. It has 31 resident.
Situated amidst dense woodlands, Azalea Town is surrounded by towering trees, verdant foliage, and winding paths that beckon adventurers to explore its natural wonders. The town’s serene setting provides a peaceful retreat for both residents and travelers seeking solace in nature.
The town is home to Kurt, a renowned Poké Ball craftsman known for his expertise in creating special Apricorn Balls. Trainers often visit Kurt’s house to commission custom Poké Balls or learn more about his time-honored craft. One of Azalea Town’s most notable landmarks is the Slowpoke Well, a sacred site revered by locals for its mystical significance.
As an annual tradition, Azalea Town hosts the Bug-Catching Contest, a beloved event where Trainers compete to catch the rarest and most exotic Bug-type Pokémon. Azalea Town also serves as a gateway to the sprawling Ilex Forest, an enchanting woodland teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
To earn the Hive Badge, Pokémon Trainers embark on a journey to Azalea Town, where they must challenge Bugsy, the Gym Leader renowned for his expertise in Bug-type Pokémon.
Goldenrod City
Goldenrod City stands as a bustling metropolis in the heart of the Johto region, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling commerce, and iconic landmarks. It has 126 residents.
Renowned as the commercial epicenter of Johto, Goldenrod City boasts a plethora of shops, boutiques, and department stores catering to every Trainer’s needs. From specialty Poké Balls to rare items and fashionable apparel, the city offers a diverse array of goods for both locals and visitors alike.
Goldenrod City stands as the bustling hub of Johto’s economy and communication network. Notable landmarks such as the Goldenrod Radio Tower, Department Store, Game Corner, and Gym beckon Trainers. Beyond the city, attractions like the National Park, Pokéathlon Dome, and Pokémon Day Care await exploration.
Aspiring Trainers seeking to test their skills flock to the Goldenrod Gym to earn the Plain Badge, where the formidable Whitney awaits challengers. Specializing in Normal-type Pokémon, Whitney’s endearing personality belies her fierce battling prowess, making her Gym a formidable obstacle on the path to success.
Ecruteak City
Ecruteak City, nestled in the heart of the Johto region, exudes an aura of mystique and ancient tradition. Its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance make it a captivating destination for Trainers and tourists alike. It has 46 residents.
Ecruteak City is renowned for its historical landmarks, including the Bell Tower and Burned Tower. These iconic structures serve as testaments to the city’s storied past and are deeply intertwined with Johto’s folklore and mythology.
Like other prominent cities in the Pokémon world, Ecruteak boasts its own Pokémon Gym helmed by Morty, a Ghost-type Pokémon specialist. Trainers who prevail against Morty earn the prestigious Fog Badge as a testament to their skill and determination.
Ecruteak City serves as a gateway to Johto’s rich history and mystical wonders.
Olivine City
Olivine City, nestled along the picturesque coastline of the Johto region, offers a serene retreat for travelers and Trainers alike. It has 47 residents. Despite its tranquil facade, Olivine City is steeped in mystical lore and ancient legends.
Olivine City’s identity is deeply intertwined with the sea, as it serves as a bustling port town overlooking the vast expanse of the ocean. At the heart of Olivine City stands the iconic Olivine Lighthouse, a towering beacon that guides ships safely to shore. Its gleaming light pierces through the darkness, symbolizing hope and guidance for sailors navigating the treacherous waters of the Johto coast.
Olivine City is home to the Olivine Gym, where Jasmine, the Steel-type Pokémon specialist, awaits challengers. Trainers who prove their mettle against Jasmine have the honor of receiving the Mineral Badge, a testament to their strength and determination.
Cianwood City
Cianwood City, a tranquil coastal retreat nestled within the scenic Johto region, offers a serene escape for weary travelers and aspiring Pokémon Trainers.
Situated along the azure shores of the Johto coast, Cianwood City boasts breathtaking views of the vast sea stretching out into the horizon. Renowned for its natural hot springs, Cianwood City is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. With its bustling harbor and thriving fishing industry, Cianwood City is a hub of maritime activity. It has 27 residents.
The Cianwood Gym, led by Chuck, a formidable Fighting-type Pokémon expert, offers challengers the chance to test their skills in intense battles in order to earn the Storm Badge.
Mahogany Town
Nestled amidst the serene landscape of the Johto region, Mahogany Town exudes a tranquil charm intertwined with rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.
Mahogany Town is renowned for its idyllic setting, nestled amidst lush forests and tranquil lakes. The town’s serene ambiance offers a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life, inviting visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. It has 26 residents.
The town’s historic landmarks, such as the Mahogany Gym and the Lake of Rage, serve as testaments to its storied past.
Mahogany Town beckons Pokémon Trainers seeking the Glacier Badge from Pryce, the Ice-type specialist at the Mahogany Gym. Known for its serene ambiance, the town lacks a conventional Poké Mart, replaced by a shop formerly utilized by Team Rocket. Upon their defeat, it transforms into a quaint store overseen by a kindly old lady.
Blackthorn City
Blackthorn City stands as a testament to Johto’s rugged beauty, nestled amidst towering mountains and verdant forests.
Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, Blackthorn City offers breathtaking vistas that inspire awe and wonder. It has 40 residents.
Steeped in lore and mystique, Blackthorn City exudes an aura of ancient wisdom and reverence for nature. Its mystical ambiance is heightened by the presence of the Dragon’s Den, a sacred cavern where Dragon-type Pokémon are said to dwell.
Renowned as the home of Johto’s Dragon-type Pokémon Gym, Blackthorn City is a sanctuary for Trainers seeking to challenge its formidable leader, Clair. Those who prove their mettle earn the Rising Badge, a symbol of mastery over Dragon-type Pokémon. Beyond its Gym, Blackthorn City serves as a hub for Trainers honing their skills and forging bonds with their Pokémon.
Other locations in Johto region
Johto boasts numerous landmarks and attractions that draw Trainers from far and wide.
Here are some notable landmarks that dot the landscape of Johto:
Bell Tower
Rising majestically above the city of Ecruteak, the Bell Tower is an iconic symbol of Johto’s spiritual legacy. This ancient structure is steeped in mythology and serves as a sacred site for those seeking to connect with the legendary Pokémon Ho-Oh.
Burned Tower
Located in Ecruteak City, the Burned Tower is a solemn reminder of a tragic past. Once a place of beauty and reverence, it was ravaged by fire in a cataclysmic event. Today, it stands as a haunting testament to the region’s history and the enduring spirit of Johto.
Whirl Islands
Nestled in the waters near Cianwood City, the Whirl Islands are a mystical archipelago shrouded in mystery. These swirling mazes of currents and caves are home to the legendary Pokémon Lugia, drawing adventurers and Trainers alike to explore their enigmatic depths.
Lake of Rage
A tranquil oasis amid Johto’s rugged terrain, the Lake of Rage is renowned for its shimmering waters and serene beauty. However, beneath its calm surface lies a secret: the presence of rare and powerful Red Gyarados, captivating the curiosity of Trainers from far and wide.
National Park
Situated north of Goldenrod City, the National Park is a sprawling expanse of lush greenery and vibrant flora. Its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a popular destination for nature lovers and Pokémon enthusiasts, with the annual Bug-Catching Contest drawing participants eager to showcase their skills.
Tin Tower
Standing sentinel in the heart of Ecruteak City, the Tin Tower is a testament to Johto’s storied past and enduring traditions. This ancient pagoda is revered as a place of spiritual significance, serving as a focal point for ceremonies and rituals honoring the legendary Pokémon Suicune.
Mt. Silver
Towering over the eastern reaches of Johto, Mt. Silver is a rugged mountain range cloaked in mystery and adventure. Its treacherous slopes and hidden caves are home to powerful Pokémon and elusive Trainers, making it a challenging but rewarding destination for those seeking to test their skills.
Safari Zone Gate
Situated near Cianwood City, the Safari Zone Gate grants Trainers entry to the renowned Johto Safari Zone. This expansive nature reserve is home to a diverse array of Pokémon species, offering Trainers the opportunity to encounter rare and exotic creatures in their natural habitats.
Frontier Access
Located near Olivine City, Frontier Access serves as the gateway to the Battle Frontier, Johto’s premier destination for competitive battles and strategic challenges. The Battle Frontier offers a variety of facilities, each with its own unique battle format and formidable Frontier Brains to test Trainers’ skills.
These landmarks, each with its own unique charm and significance, embody the essence of Johto’s diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage. From ancient temples to sprawling wilderness, they invite travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and wonder in this enchanting region.
Routes in Johto
The Johto region boasts a network of scenic routes that wind through its diverse landscapes, offering Trainers and travelers alike a glimpse of its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The Johto region features 20 distinct routes facilitating seamless travel between locations for Trainers.
Sharing the same route system with Kanto, it starts at Route 29, continuing from Kanto’s Route 28. Numbered routes span up to 48, with Routes 47 and 48 accessible only in Generation IV, leading to the far west.
Gym Leaders in Johto
In the Johto region, Trainers encounter a variety of skilled Gym Leaders, each specializing in a different Pokémon type (Generations II and IV).
Here are the Gym Leaders of Johto region:
Falkner of Violet City
Specializes in Flying-type Pokémon. His Gym is the first challenge Trainers face on their Johto journey, with a focus on aerial battles. Trainers can earn the Zephyr Badge by defeating him.
Bugsy of Azalea Town
Known for his Bug-type Pokémon. Trainers must navigate through his forest-themed Gym and face Bug-type challenges. Trainers receive the Hive Badge upon defeating Bugsy.
Whitney of Goldenrod City
Whitney’s Normal-type Pokémon pack a punch. Her Gym features a Clefairy dance routine and a formidable Miltank battle. Trainers can earn the Plain Badge by overcoming her challenges.
Morty of Ecruteak City
Morty specializes in Ghost-type Pokémon. Trainers must navigate through illusions and overcome supernatural challenges in his eerie Gym. Trainers earn the Fog Badge after defeating him.
Chuck of Cianwood City
Chuck’s Fighting-type Pokémon test Trainers’ strength and determination. His Gym focuses on physical endurance and martial arts prowess. Trainers can earn the Storm Badge by defeating Chuck.
Jasmine of Olivine City
Jasmine commands Steel-type Pokémon, showcasing their resilience and defensive capabilities. Her Gym requires strategic thinking to overcome steel barriers. Trainers receive the Mineral Badge upon defeating her.
Pryce of Mahogany Town
Pryce’s Ice-type Pokémon present a chilly challenge. Trainers must navigate icy mazes and battle in frozen arenas to earn his respect. Trainers can earn the Glacier Badge by overcoming Pryce’s icy trials.
Clair of Blackthorn City
The Dragon-type specialist, Clair, awaits Trainers in her mountainous Gym. Overcoming her powerful Dragon Pokémon is the ultimate test before challenging the Pokémon League. Trainers receive the Rising Badge after defeating Clair.
Each Gym Leader offers a unique challenge, testing Trainers’ skills and teamwork. Defeating them and earning their badges is a crucial step toward becoming the Johto region’s Pokémon Champion.
Elite Four and Champion in Johto
In the Johto region, Trainers face off against a formidable Elite Four and Champion after collecting all eight Gym Badges.
Here are the members of the Elite Four and the Champion (Generations II and IV).
Elite Four members
A Psychic-type Pokémon specialist, Will is the first member of the Elite Four. His mastery over Psychic-type Pokémon poses a significant challenge to Trainers aiming to become Champion.
The Poison-type Pokémon expert, Koga, occupies the second spot in the Elite Four. His toxic strategies and powerful Poison-type Pokémon make for a tough battle.
A Fighting-type Pokémon aficionado, Bruno stands as the third member of the Elite Four. Trainers must prove their prowess in hand-to-hand combat to overcome Bruno’s resilient Fighting-type team.
Champion
After defeating the Elite Four, Trainers face off against the reigning Champion of the Johto region.
The Dragon-type Pokémon Master, Lance, awaits at the pinnacle of Johto’s Pokémon League. With his powerful Dragon-type team, including the legendary Dragonite, Trainers must summon all their strength and strategy to dethrone Lance and claim the title of Johto Champion.
Battle Frontier in Johto
In the Johto region, experienced Trainers can challenge the Battle Frontier, an elite facility dedicated to testing their skills in various battle formats. Located near Olivine City, the Battle Frontier offers a range of challenging facilities, each with its own unique rules and specialized battles.
Trainers can engage in battles such as Single Battles, Double Battles, and Multi Battles, among others, against skilled Frontier Brains who specialize in different battle strategies. After defeating them Trainers gain a commemorative print. There are two types: the Silver symbol is awarded upon defeating the Frontier Brain for the first time, while the Gold symbol is earned upon a subsequent victory against the same opponent.
Frontier Brains
Among the Frontier Brains in Johto are:
Tower Tycoon Palmer
Known for his prowess in Single Battles at the Battle Tower (Silver Tower Prints and Gold Tower Prints).
Factory head Throton
Specializes in Rental Pokémon battles at the Battle Factory (Silver Factory Prints and Gold Factory Prints).
Arcade Star Dahlia
Excels in Double Battles at the Battle Arcade (Silver Arcade Prints and Gold Arcade Prints).
Castle Valet Darach
Master of Multi Battles at the Battle Castle (Silver Castle Prints and Gold Castle Prints).
Hall Matron Argenta
Challenges Trainers in a variety of battle formats at the Battle Hall (Silver Hall Prints and Gold Hall Prints).
These Frontier Brains offer unique challenges and formidable battles to Trainers seeking to conquer the Battle Frontier in the Johto region.