In the past, when water became scarce due to prolonged drought, farmers who usually lived together in harmony would constantly fight over water. However, when there was no water to fight over and no way to obtain water, it is said that several neighboring villages joined forces to pray for rain at Sannomiya Shrine. When rain actually fell, they gave thanks to the shrine. The return ceremonies were even more grand than the rain-making ceremonies, and within the shrine grounds, return sumo wrestling, Noh and Kyogen performances, Sumiyoshi dance, and other events were held. Furthermore, many of the lanterns that remain within the shrine grounds were donated as return offerings for these rain-making ceremonies.