The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist likens taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
