Pasuruan is a city located in the East Java Province of Indonesia, situated on the island of Java. It lies approximately 65 kilometres southeast of Surabaya, the provincial capital, and faces the Madura Strait to the north. Administratively, the city is surrounded on its landward side by Pasuruan Regency but remains separate from it. This geographic positioning places it within a significant coastal region of eastern Java.

The area has a long history of transportation development, notably served by the Pasoeroean Stoomtram Maatschappij, which operated local steam trams for passengers and agricultural freight from 1896 to 1969. The city's administrative structure includes four districts, with Panggungrejo District created in 2010 from parts of neighbouring areas. This evolution reflects its growing complexity as an urban centre distinct from the surrounding regency.

The city is defined by its diverse landmarks and infrastructure, including the active Pasuruan Railway Station and the Untung Suropati Stadium, which hosts local football clubs. Nearby attractions include the Jawi Temple, a 13th-century Hindu-Buddhist heritage site at the foot of Mount Welirang, and Taman Safari Indonesia II in Prigen. The region also features historical sites like Belahan Temple and various mosques, showcasing its rich cultural architecture.

Visitor appeal is driven by local culinary traditions and natural sites. Residents and tourists enjoy nasi punel, a dish with fried grated coconut, and snacks like bipang. The area offers access to natural attractions such as Lake Grati and Putuk Truno Waterfall, alongside mangrove trekking at Taman Mangrove Penunggul. These elements combine to provide a mix of historical exploration and outdoor recreation for visitors.

As of the 2010 Census, Pasuruan had a population of 186,262, with estimates rising to 213,469 by mid-2024. The city is connected by provincial roads and the Trans Java Freeway, with travel times of at least two hours from Surabaya. It experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by heavy rainfall from December to April and little to no rain from May to November, influencing its seasonal accessibility.