T akao Yasuda is a self-made Japanese retail billionaire and the iconoclastic founder of Don Quijote, one of Japan's most famous and distinctive discount retail chains. He opened his first store in 1989, introducing a unique and wildly successful retail concept. Don Quijote stores are famous for their chaotic, maze-like, and fun 'treasure hunt' atmosphere. The stores feature extremely narrow aisles packed from floor-to-ceiling with a vast and eclectic array of products, ranging from everyday groceries and cosmetics to electronics, luxury goods, and novelty items.

This entertaining and overwhelming shopping experience, combined with late-night opening hours, has made the chain incredibly popular with a wide range of consumers. Yasuda built the company into a massive retail empire and served as its longtime CEO. After retiring, he was called back to lead the company's international expansion and now serves as a consultant. He has since relocated to Singapore, from where he oversees the company's growing presence across Asia under its new holding company name, Pan Pacific International Holdings.