Japan created the television format that became the UK series Dragon's Den.
The original Japanese programme was called Money Tigers, or Money no Tora. It established the central idea of entrepreneurs presenting business plans to wealthy investors who decide whether to provide money in exchange for equity. The format was later adapted for broadcasters in many countries, including the United Kingdom.
The British version retained the basic structure while giving it local presenters, investors and business culture. In Britain, the investors became known as dragons; in other adaptations they may have different names, such as sharks in the United States. Despite those branding changes, the negotiation-based format remains recognisable.
Japan is sometimes overlooked because the British and American editions became especially internationally visible. Dragon's Den is therefore not an entirely British invention, although the British series has developed its own long-running identity and audience.