The nation set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
