<p>Geomythology, the study of the relationships between supernatural narratives and physical geography, is claimed to have the ability to shed light on both nature and culture. Much geomythology research arising out of the natural sciences approaches supernatural narratives and folk culture as sources of information about past geological events. Taking a folklore studies approach, we use a study of topographical legends and other stories concerning the goddess Guanyin on the island of Mount Putuo, China to argue that neither oral nor written narratives are reliable sources of information about the past. Focusing on identification of Putuo with the mythical otherworld Potalaka, appearances of Guanyin at Tidal Sound Cave, and the location of the sacred Purple Bamboo Grove, we show the difficulties that arise in seeking to interpret supernatural narratives as straightforward results of natural phenomena. The relationships between culture, narrative, religion, and place are highly complex, and intertextual relationships contribute to constantly changing cultures and environments. We advocate culturally and geographically contextualised studies of myth, legend, and nature, and we question the usefulness of geomythology approaches to research.</p>