The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
