Kanto region
The Kanto region is the original setting for the Pokémon series, first introduced in Pokémon Red and Green (Blue in international releases).
Kanto is located in the eastern part of the Pokémon world and is inspired by the real-life Kantō region of Japan. It is situated to the south of the Johto region.
It is the first of ten most famous Pokémon regions in the Pokémon world.
The Kanto region is characterized by a temperate climate and relatively uniform landscapes, likely influenced by its origins in the Generation I games. Comprising mostly forests and plains, Kanto’s major cities are centrally located, providing easy access to diverse environments such as the sea, mountains, and forests.
While predominantly land-based, Kanto features a sizable bay in its center, leading to a sea in the southwest. The region’s landscape is marked by a juxtaposition of urban centers and rural towns. Mountain ranges, primarily found in northern and western Kanto, including the Indigo Plateau and Victory Road, serve as natural barriers separating Kanto from the neighboring Johto region.
Within the Pokémon series, Kanto holds a special place as the inaugural region where Trainers embark on their Pokémon journeys. It is characterized by its rich tradition of Pokémon training, iconic cities, diverse landscapes, and legendary Pokémon encounters. Throughout various Pokémon games, players explore Kanto, challenge its Gym Leaders, navigate its towns and cities, and uncover the region’s secrets.
In the Kanto region, Trainers begin their journey by choosing one of three starter Pokémon: Bulbasaur, Charmander, or Squirtle, offered by Professor Oak.
The Kanto region is home to several legendary Pokémon, including Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres, Mewtwo and Mew.
Kanto has been featured in multiple Pokémon games, including the original Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow versions, as well as their enhanced remakes Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. It also appears in Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!, which are modernized remakes of Pokémon Yellow.
Kanto region cities and towns
Kanto is dotted with several cities and towns, each with its unique characteristics and attractions.
Pallet Town
Pallet Town is a quaint and picturesque town situated in the southwestern part of the Kanto region, serving as the starting point for aspiring Pokémon Trainers in the Pokémon series.
It is relatively small, featuring a few modest homes and buildings. Its layout is simple, with narrow streets lined with trees and greenery.
Pallet Town is home to a few residents (10). Pallet Town serves as the hometown for both the player and their rival in the Kanto-based games. In other game iterations, it is notably the hometown of Red and Blue (Pokémon Adventures).
In the Pokémon anime, it is the birthplace of Ash and Gary (Professor Oak’s grandson). Situated within the town is Professor Oak’s Laboratory, where the renowned Professor conducts groundbreaking Pokémon research.
Viridian City
Viridian City is a bustling urban center located in the Kanto region of the Pokémon world.
It is a moderately sized city, featuring a mix of residential areas, commercial districts, and recreational spaces. The city’s layout is organized, with wide streets and well-maintained sidewalks.
Viridian City is home to a diverse population of Trainers, Pokémon enthusiasts, and residents who contribute to the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit (34 residents).
In the Pokémon games, Viridian City plays a significant role as a pivotal location on the Trainer’s journey. Led by the formidable Gym Leader, Giovanni (member of Team Rocket and he specializes in Ground-type Pokémon) or Blue in later games, the Viridian Gym is the final challenge for Trainers on their journey through Kanto. Other notable locations in Vieridian City are Pokémon Center, Poké Mart and Viridian Forest.
Pewter City
Pewter City is a quaint and historic town located in the northern part of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world.
It is a small, close-knit community with a layout that reflects its rich history and heritage. Its streets are lined with cozy homes, local businesses, and quaint storefronts.
Pewter City is home to a tight-knit community of residents (30) who take pride in their town’s heritage and traditions. Notable figures include Brock, the Pewter Gym Leader, and his family, who are well-respected members of the community.
In the Pokémon games, Pewter City serves as an important landmark for Trainers embarking on their journey through Kanto. It offers Trainers their first Gym challenge at the Pewter Gym and provides essential services at the Pokémon Center. Led by the steadfast Gym Leader, Brock, the Pewter Gym specializes in Rock-type Pokémon battles. Trainers seeking the Boulder Badge must overcome Brock’s formidable team of Rock-type Pokémon to prove their skills.
Additionally, the Pewter Museum of Science offers an educational and immersive experience for Trainers interested in learning more about the region’s history and Pokémon fossils.
Cerulean City
Cerulean City is a vibrant coastal city located in the Kanto region of the Pokémon world. It is a moderately sized city with a layout that blends urban development with natural beauty. Its streets are lined with charming buildings, parks, and waterfront promenades.
Cerulean City is home to a diverse population of Trainers, fishermen, and locals who contribute to the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit (33 residents). Notable residents include Misty, the Cerulean Gym Leader, and her sisters.
In the Pokémon games, Cerulean City serves as a significant waypoint for Trainers on their journey through Kanto. It offers essential services such as the Pokémon Center and Poké Mart, as well as the opportunity to challenge the Cerulean Gym for the Cascade Badge. Led by the Water-type Pokémon Trainer, Misty, the Cerulean Gym is renowned for its challenging battles and unique water-themed puzzles. It is the second Gym that Trainers encounter on their journey through Kanto.
Vermilion City
Vermilion City is a bustling coastal city situated in the southern part of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world. Positioned along the southeastern coast of Kanto, Vermilion City enjoys scenic views of the ocean and is known for its vibrant maritime culture.
It is a moderately sized city with a layout that reflects its maritime heritage. Its streets are lined with colorful buildings, bustling markets, and bustling docks where ships come and go. Vermilion City is home to a diverse population (34 residents) who contribute to the city’s dynamic atmosphere and maritime lifestyle.
In the Pokémon games, Vermilion City plays a significant role as a key waypoint for Trainers on their journey through Kanto. It offers essential services such as the Pokémon Center and Poké Mart, as well as the opportunity to challenge the Vermilion Gym, Led by the Electric-type Pokémon Trainer, Lt. Surge, for the Thunder Badge.
A bustling port area where cargo ships, cruise liners, and fishing boats dock, Vermilion Harbor serves as a vital hub for maritime trade and transportation in the Kanto region. A luxurious passenger ship that docks at Vermilion Harbor periodically, the SS Anne offers Trainers the opportunity to embark on exciting journeys to distant lands and participate in special events and battles onboard.
Lavender Town
Lavender Town is a tranquil and mysterious town located in the northeastern part of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world.
It is a small and quaint town with a layout that reflects its tranquil atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets wind through clusters of old-fashioned buildings, including quaint homes, a Pokémon Center, and the iconic Pokémon Tower. The Pokémon Tower serves as a solemn memorial for departed Pokémon. Trainers visit the tower to pay their respects to deceased Pokémon and offer condolences to grieving Trainers. Other significant locations are Lavender Volunteer House and Lavender Radio Tower.
Lavender Town is home to a small but tight-knit community of residents (30) who cherish the town’s tranquil atmosphere and embrace its rich cultural heritage. Notable residents of Lavender Town include the Mr. Fuji, known for his kindness and the Name Rater, who offers the player character the option to change the nicknames of their Pokémon.
In the Pokémon games, Lavender Town serves as a poignant and memorable location on the Trainer’s journey through Kanto. It is visited by Trainers seeking to pay their respects at the Pokémon Tower, explore the town’s haunted history, and uncover its secrets.
Celadon City
Celadon City is a bustling metropolis located in the central part of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world, amidst verdant forests and fertile plains.
It is a sprawling city with a diverse layout that reflects its vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its streets are lined with skyscrapers, department stores, parks, and bustling markets, creating a dynamic and bustling environment.
Celadon City is home to a diverse population (68 residents) of Trainers, merchants, tourists, and locals who contribute to the city’s vibrant culture and bustling economy. Notable figures include Erika, the Celadon Gym Leader (Trainers can earn Rainbow Badge) and the residents of the Celadon Mansion (such as Game Freak developers and the Move Deleter). There is also Celadon Department Store – massive shopping complex that offers a wide range of items, including Pokémon supplies, TMs, and accessories.
Fuchsia City
Fuchsia City is a vibrant and lively city located in the southeastern part of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world.
It is a moderately sized city with a layout that reflects its coastal location. Its streets are lined with colorful buildings, bustling markets, and lush greenery, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Fuchsia City is home to a diverse population of Trainers, nature enthusiasts, and Pokémon enthusiasts (36 residents) who are drawn to the city’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Notable figures include Koga, the Fuchsia Gym Leader, and the warden of the Safari Zone.
Led by the Poison-type Pokémon Trainer, Koga, the Fuchsia Gym is known for its challenging battles and intricate maze-like layout. Trainers seeking the Soul Badge must navigate through Koga’s gym and defeat his powerful team of Poison-type Pokémon.
Fuchsia City is home to the renowned Safari Zone, a sprawling wildlife preserve where Trainers can embark on exciting safari adventures to encounter and catch a diverse range of Pokémon species. Near the Safari Zone entrance is the Warden’s House.
Saffron City
Saffron City is a bustling metropolis located in the heart of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world.
It is a sprawling city characterized by its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and vibrant city life. Its layout is organized and modern, with distinct districts dedicated to commerce, residential areas, and recreational spaces.
Saffron City is home to a diverse population of Trainers, businessmen, researchers, and residents (47) who contribute to the city’s dynamic atmosphere and cosmopolitan culture. Notable figures include Sabrina, the Saffron Gym Leader, and the employees of Silph Co.
Led by the Psychic-type Pokémon Trainer, Sabrina, the Saffron Gym is famed for its mind-bending puzzles and formidable Psychic-type Pokémon battles. Trainers seeking the Marsh Badge must navigate through Sabrina‘s gym and defeat her powerful Psychic-type Pokémon.
In the Pokémon games, Saffron City plays a pivotal role as a central location for Trainers to explore, engage in key story events, and challenge the Saffron Gym for Gym Badges. It also serves as a gateway to other cities and regions via the Magnet Train Station.
Cinnabar Island
Cinnabar Island is a unique and captivating destination located in the southwestern part of the Kanto region in the Pokémon world.
It is characterized by its rugged terrain and volcanic landscapes. The island is dominated by the imposing presence of Mt. Cinnabar, an active volcano that looms over the island and contributes to its geothermal activity.
Despite its remote location, Cinnabar Island is home to a small but dedicated community of Trainers, researchers, and adventurers who are drawn to the island’s unique beauty and scientific significance. Before the volcanoc eruption there were 36 residenst, and after that just 9. Notable figures include Blaine, the Cinnabar Gym Leader, and Dr. Fuji, the esteemed Pokémon researcher who works in Cinnabar Lab.
Led by the Fire-type Pokémon Trainer, Blaine, the Cinnabar Gym is renowned for its fiery battles and challenging puzzles. Trainers seeking the Volcano Badge must navigate through Blaine’s gym and overcome his powerful team of Fire-type Pokémon.
Other locations in Kanto region
Kanto boasts a variety of natural landscapes and features and it is surrounded by few water bodies:
Viridian Forest
A dense woodland area teeming with Bug-type Pokémon, located near Viridian City.
Mt. Moon
A prominent mountain range known for its caves and the presence of Clefairy and Clefable.
Rock Tunnel
A dark cave connecting Cerulean City to Lavender Town.
Diglett’s Cave
A lengthy tunnel carved out by roaming Diglett and Dugtrio. Once a Trainer reaches Cerulean City, the sole route leading back to Pewter City, Viridian City, and Pallet Town necessitates passage through this subterranean labyrinth.
Forest of Pikachu
A small forest inhabited by clans of Pikachu, featured exclusively in the anime series. Ash Ketchum and his companions stumbled upon this serene haven during their journey, encountering other Pikachu along the way.
Pokémon Tower
A tall structure in Lavender Town serving as a memorial for departed Pokémon.
Power Plan
An industrial facility located north of Cerulean City, home to Electric-type Pokémon like Magnemite and Voltorb.
Seafoam Islands
A group of islands off the coast of Cinnabar Island, housing Articuno’s icy lair.
Victory Road
A challenging route leading to the Pokémon League, featuring rugged terrain and powerful Trainers.
Indigo Plateau
Situated in the northwest region of Kanto, the Indigo Plateau serves as the prestigious headquarters of the Pokémon League. Trainers aspiring to challenge the League must first earn all eight Gym Badges from Kanto or Johto before they can gain entry to this illustrious location.
Viridian River
A river running through Viridian City.
Cerulean Cape
A scenic coastal area near Cerulean City.
Sea routes
Several sea routes connect various coastal towns and cities in Kanto.
Routes in Kanto
The Kanto region boasts a network of diverse and scenic routes that connect its bustling cities, tranquil towns, and captivating landmarks. The numbering system for routes in the Kanto region started from Route 1 and extended to Route 25 in Generations I, III, and VII. However, in Generations II and IV, three additional routes (26, 27, and 28) were introduced to establish connections with the neighboring Johto region.
Gym Leaders in Kanto
The Kanto region is renowned for its formidable Gym Leaders, each specializing in a specific Pokémon type (Generations I, II, III, IV and VII). Here are the esteemed Gym Leaders of Kanto:
As the Cerulean City Gym Leader, Misty commands a team of Water-type Pokémon. Challengers must navigate her aquatic battlefield to claim the Cascade Badge.
Leading the Vermilion City Gym, Lt. Surge is an expert in Electric-type Pokémon. Trainers must brave his electrifying tactics to obtain the Thunder Badge.
The Celadon City Gym Leader, Erika, specializes in Grass-type Pokémon. Trainers must navigate her lush garden arena to earn the Rainbow Badge.
As the Fuchsia City Gym Leader, Koga commands a team of Poison-type Pokémon. Challengers must overcome his toxic strategies to claim the Soul Badge.
Janine, the daughter of Koga and the Fuchsia City Gym Leader takes over the Fuchsia Gym in the absence of her father and specializes in Poison-type Pokémon, like her father. Trainers who challenge and beat Janine earn the Soul Badge.
Blue, also known as Gary Oak, is the grandson of Professor Oak and a former Pokémon Champion. In the Pokémon games, he becomes the Viridian City Gym Leader after the player character defeats Giovanni. Trainers must face his formidable team to prove their worthiness in battle.
These Gym Leaders are revered for their skill and expertise, offering challenging battles and valuable lessons to aspiring Pokémon Trainers seeking to prove their worth in the Kanto region.
Elite Four and Champion in Kanto
In the Kanto region, the Elite Four and Champion serve as the ultimate test for skilled Trainers aiming to prove their prowess.
Here are the esteemed members of the Elite Four and the reigning Champion in Generations I, III and VII.
Bruno is the second member of the Elite Four, focusing on Fighting-type Pokémon. Trainers must demonstrate their strength and strategy to overcome his formidable fighting techniques.
Agatha is the third member of the Elite Four, known for her mastery of Ghost-type Pokémon. Trainers must confront her ghostly team and battle against her cunning tactics to emerge victorious.
Lance is the final member of the Elite Four and serves as the Dragon-type Pokémon specialist. Trainers face his powerful Dragon-type team and must prove their resilience and determination to succeed.
Champion Blue
After defeating the Elite Four, Trainers must face the reigning Champion, Blue. He is a formidable opponent with a diverse team of Pokémon, showcasing his versatility and skill as a Trainer. Only the strongest and most prepared Trainers can hope to overcome Blue’s formidable challenge and claim the title of Champion themselves.
He is a rival character in the Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu and Let’s Go Eevee games. As the Champion, Trace possesses a formidable team of Pokémon and serves as the final obstacle for Trainers seeking to claim the title for themselves. Players must overcome Trace’s powerful team and strategic prowess to emerge victorious and become the new Champion of the Kanto region.
Here are the esteemed members of the Elite Four and the reigning Champion in Generations II and IV.
Will is the first member of the Elite Four in Generations II and IV. He specializes in Psychic-type Pokémon, challenging Trainers with his psychic abilities and diverse team.
Koga, previously the Fuchsia City Gym Leader in Generation I, joins the Elite Four in Generations II and IV. He retains his specialization in Poison-type Pokémon, using his cunning strategies to outwit challengers.
Bruno remains a member of the Elite Four in Generations II and IV, maintaining his focus on Fighting-type Pokémon. Trainers must face his formidable martial arts skills and powerful fighting Pokémon.
Lance, previously the Dragon-type specialist in Generation I, ascends to the position of Champion in Generations II and IV. As the reigning Champion, Trainers must overcome Lance’s powerful Dragon-type Pokémon and legendary Pokémon to claim the title for themselves.
Together, the Elite Four and Champion of the Kanto region present the ultmate challenge for aspiring Pokémon Trainers, testing their skills, strategy, and determination to emerge victorious.