The nation set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, one expert likens assuming the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
