Dragon's Den is based on which Japanese business reality television format?

The UK television show Dragon's Den is based on the Japanese business reality format Money Tigers.

Money Tigers was created in Japan and established the central format later adapted in several countries: entrepreneurs present business ideas to wealthy investors and seek financial backing in return for equity. The British version changed the presentation, branding and investor title for its domestic audience, calling the panel Dragons rather than Tigers.

The format became internationally recognisable because the pitch is direct and the negotiation is visible. Entrepreneurs must explain their product, market, finances and requested investment while answering questions from several potential backers. A Dragon may make an offer, reject the proposal or combine with another investor.

The US adaptation is called Shark Tank, which is why viewers sometimes identify Shark Tank as the source of the British programme. Shark Tank is a later country-specific adaptation of the broader format, not the original Japanese title. Dragon's Den has itself been adapted in many other territories.