Apart from prayers, Japanese people have a habit to greet each other at the beginning and the end of dining, saying 'Itadakimasu' (literally, "let me start eating") and 'Gochisosama' (literally, "I have enjoyed delicious dishes,") which custom is typical in Japan.
祈りとは別に食事を始める時の挨拶「いただきます」と、食事を終えた時の挨拶「ごちそうさま」という日本独特の習慣がある。