Nippon TV created the original Japanese format adapted as Dragon's Den.
The format originated in Japan before being produced for British audiences. Its Japanese version, Money Tigers, established the essential idea of entrepreneurs asking investors to finance their businesses in return for equity. Nippon Television Network Corporation, commonly called Nippon TV, was associated with the original format.
When the BBC developed its version, the production retained the basic pitch-and-negotiation structure but introduced British investors, British businesses and a British title. The adaptation demonstrates how television formats can travel internationally while preserving a recognisable core idea.
Nippon TV is sometimes confused with other major Japanese broadcasters, including NHK, Fuji TV and TV Asahi. Those are separate networks. The useful distinction is that Nippon TV is the broadcaster linked to the original Money Tigers format, rather than to the later British or American adaptations.